Honey garlic chicken thighs are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a sticky, flavorful honey garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make the best honey garlic chicken thighs. From ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips and variations, you’ll find everything you need to make this dish a success.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
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Incredible flavor – The balance of sweet honey, savory garlic, and soy sauce makes this dish irresistible.
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Versatile – Serve with rice, vegetables, or even a fresh salad.
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Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and sticky glaze.
Ingredients List
To make this delicious honey garlic chicken, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
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6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, if preferred)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Honey Garlic Sauce:
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⅓ cup honey
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¼ cup soy sauce
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
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1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
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1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 teaspoons water (for thickening)
Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get crispy when cooked. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook for about 5–6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water. Slowly stir this mixture into the sauce and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken in the Sauce
Return the chicken thighs to the pan, spooning the sauce over them. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chicken simmer for 10–12 minutes until fully cooked and coated in the delicious sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken
Use Bone-In Chicken for More Flavor
Bone-in chicken thighs stay juicier and have more flavor than boneless cuts. However, boneless thighs or chicken breasts can also work well.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Adjust the Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey slightly and add more soy sauce for a saltier balance.
Make It Spicy
For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce.
Variations to Try
Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
If you prefer baking over pan-frying, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Sear the chicken thighs on the stovetop for a few minutes, then transfer them to a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the top and bake for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.
Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken
For a healthier option, air fry the chicken thighs at 380°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Toss them in the sauce before serving.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a slow cooker and pour the sauce over them. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours until tender.
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken
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Rice – White rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice soaks up the sauce beautifully.
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Vegetables – Roasted broccoli, carrots, or stir-fried bell peppers make great sides.
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Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes pair well with the sticky, flavorful sauce.
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Noodles – Serve over ramen or udon noodles for an Asian-inspired meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
How to Store
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat
Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! Let the chicken cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work, but they may not be as juicy as thighs. Be careful not to overcook them.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little more cornstarch mixed with water. Let it simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.
Conclusion
Honey garlic chicken thighs are a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Whether you pan-fry, bake, or air-fry them, they always turn out tender and delicious. Serve them with rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.