This Skillet Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is so easy and tasty! The chicken gets a sweet and sticky glaze that makes every bite irresistible. Plus, cooking in a skillet means less mess!
You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together. Just fry the chicken, add honey and garlic, then pop it in the oven. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home—who doesn’t enjoy a little sweetness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in thighs are juicier, but boneless thighs are easier to eat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can choose chicken breasts instead, though they may dry out faster if overcooked.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps sear the chicken. You can substitute it with another oil like canola or avocado oil if preferred or if olive oil isn’t on hand.
Soy Sauce: It gives the dish a savory depth. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes. You can also reduce the amount for a lower-sodium version.
Honey: This ingredient balances the salty soy sauce. If you want a refined sugar alternative, try maple syrup or agave nectar. Adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a robust flavor! If you don’t have fresh, feel free to use garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) or adjust based on your taste.
Broccoli or Greens: This adds a nice veggie touch! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like green beans, snap peas, or spinach depending on what you have on hand.
How Can I Achieve a Perfectly Searing Process for Chicken?
Searing chicken is crucial for flavor and texture. Here’s how to get that golden exterior:
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This prevents sticking.
- Once you place the chicken in, don’t move it around. Let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes for a good sear.
- Flip the chicken gently with tongs to avoid tearing the meat.
- Always make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Why is Letting the Chicken Rest Important?
Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, meaning every bite will be tender and flavorful. Just cover it lightly with foil and let it sit for about 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This little step makes a big difference!
Skillet Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger (optional)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Serving:
- 1 cup broccoli or your choice of greens (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or your choice of grain, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 35-45 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for preparation and cooking on the stove, plus 15-20 minutes for baking in the oven (if you choose that method). A little patience goes a long way for tasty results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you plan to bake the chicken. This will help it cook evenly and get those lovely flavors going.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While it heats, season the chicken thighs on both sides with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the thighs skin-side down (if you have skin-on) in the skillet. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown. This step locks in the flavor!
3. Flip and Set Aside:
Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and cook for another 2-3 minutes until browned. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside for now.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, turn down the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if you’re using it) to the pan. Sauté for around 30 seconds until everything is fragrant—your kitchen will smell amazing!
5. Add the Ingredients for the Sauce:
Pour in the soy sauce and honey, and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat). Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Cooking the Chicken:
Return the chicken thighs back into the skillet, making sure to spoon some of that delicious sauce over them. If you’re using broccoli or greens, add them around the chicken in the skillet.
7. Bake or Simmer:
If your skillet is oven-safe, transfer it to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should be 165°F/75°C). If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, simply cover it and let it simmer on the stove for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices settle, keeping the chicken nice and tender. Before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve those tasty chicken thighs over cooked rice or your choice of grain, and don’t forget to drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet on top. Enjoy every bite of this yummy meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Bone-In?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the searing time to about 3-4 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them in the oven or on the stove; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) after about 10-15 minutes of cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce alternative, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a soy-free version. Adjust the amount to taste, as these alternatives can be less salty than soy sauce.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the skillet and heat gently on the stove, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots along with the broccoli. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Add them to the skillet during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking for perfect tenderness!
