These Skillet Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs are a real treat! Juicy chicken meets a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce that makes every bite so yummy.
Oh, and the best part? It cooks in one skillet! Cleanup is a breeze, and those delicious smells will have everyone at home coming to the kitchen. You won’t regret making this dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this dish because they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner cut, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts can work too, but keep an eye on cooking time as they cook faster.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps create a delicious glaze. If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used. Keep in mind the flavor will change slightly, but they’ll still be tasty!
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings a savory depth to the marinade. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re watching your sodium intake, reduced-sodium soy sauce is a good choice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for bright flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be used, but use less—about 1 teaspoon instead of 4 cloves. I love using fresh ingredients for the best taste, though!
Ginger: Ground ginger works fine, but fresh ginger adds a lovely kick. If using fresh, just peel and grate a tablespoon for the best flavor. Just use the amount that suits your taste—ginger can be potent!
How Do I Get Crispy Skin on My Chicken Thighs?
Getting crispy skin on chicken thighs is all about the searing process. It’s crucial to start with a hot skillet. Here are the steps to make sure you achieve that perfect golden brown skin:
- Preheat the skillet on medium-high before adding the chicken. This helps render the fat quickly.
- Place the chicken skin-side down without overcrowding the pan.
- Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy—resist the urge to flip it too soon!
- Once flipped, always pour the marinade over the skin side to retain the sealed-off crispy texture.
After baking, let the chicken rest to keep the juices inside. If you want extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes, just watch it closely! Enjoy your delicious meal!
Skillet Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night. You’ll spend a little time mixing and searing the chicken, followed by baking it to juicy perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken bakes evenly and turns juicy. While that’s heating up, let’s prepare the marinade.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s combined. This sweet and savory marinade will give your chicken tons of flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken Thighs:
Now, grab a large skillet that can go in the oven. Heat it over medium-high heat and place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial for extra flavor!
4. Add the Marinade and Simmer:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over, skin-side up. Pour the honey garlic marinade over the chicken. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, letting those tasty flavors work their magic.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Once the sauce is simmering, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing by now!
6. Rest and Optional Broil:
Take the skillet out of the oven and give the chicken a few minutes to rest. If you want an extra caramelized glaze, you can place the skillet under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Place the chicken thighs on a bed of cooked rice, drizzling any leftover sauce from the skillet on top. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like. And there you have it—a mouthwatering meal to enjoy!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Just reduce the baking time to about 15-20 minutes, as boneless thighs cook faster. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No worries! You can substitute sesame oil with olive oil or vegetable oil. While it may alter the flavor slightly, it will still work well with the marinade. You can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a touch of that nutty flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist and heat over medium-low until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe with Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Just remember that chicken breasts tend to cook faster than thighs, so check for doneness after about 20 minutes in the oven. You can also brine them beforehand to maintain moisture during cooking.
