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Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Best Easy Dinner

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A comforting and easy weeknight dinner featuring bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seared until golden and crisp, then coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or vegetable)
  • 4–5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup honey (raw or wildflower preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Set aside.
  3. Place a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the neutral oil and heat until it shimmers but does not smoke (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Place the chicken thighs in the pan, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Press gently to ensure even contact. Cook for 6-8 minutes without moving until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip the thighs over and cook the other side for 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate, leaving the rendered fat and browned bits in the pan.
  7. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the minced fresh garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  8. Pour in the sauce mixture and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it bubbles and thickens slightly.
  9. Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side up. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and cook for another 1-2 minutes to coat evenly.
  10. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Ensure chicken skin is completely dry before searing to achieve maximum crispiness. Do not add fresh garlic too early as it burns quickly; add it after removing the chicken and lowering the heat. If the sauce breaks, whisk in a teaspoon of cold water to emulsify. For a spicy version, add sriracha or chili crisp to the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy dinner, weeknight meals, comfort food, gluten-free options, one-pan meal

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/crispy-honey-garlic-chicken-thighs-best-easy-dinner/