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A close-up of perfectly glazed honey garlic chicken thighs

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

These sticky honey garlic chicken thighs are a perfect weeknight meal. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are pan-seared to perfection, then coated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 620
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Thighs boneless, skinless
  • ½ cup Honey
  • ¼ cup Soy Sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 4-6 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons Cold Water (for cornstarch slurry)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil
  • Salt To taste
  • Black Pepper To taste
Garnish (Optional)
  • Sesame seeds
  • chopped green onions

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Skillet
  • Pan
  • Small bowls

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat chicken thighs dry, then season liberally with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. In a separate tiny bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and cooked through (165°F / 74°C), then remove and set aside.
Glazing
  1. Reduce heat to medium. Pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet, scraping up browned bits, and bring to a gentle simmer.
Thickening the Sauce
  1. Stir the cornstarch slurry, then slowly pour it into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly for 1-2 minutes until thickened and glossy.
Coating the Chicken
  1. Return cooked chicken to the pan, turning to coat completely in the sauce. Let simmer for another minute or two.
Serving
  1. Transfer the chicken and extra sauce to serving plates. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

Ensure chicken is thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.