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Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

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A quick and easy pan-fried chicken thigh recipe with crispy skin and a sweet, sticky honey garlic glaze that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup (85g) honey (raw or wildflower preferred)
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. (About 5 minutes)
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside. (3 minutes)
  3. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Let it warm until shimmering but not smoking. (2-3 minutes)
  4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down carefully in the pan without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 7-8 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip the chicken thighs and cook the other side for 5-6 minutes until nearly cooked through but not fully done.
  6. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the chicken in the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low and spoon the sauce over the thighs continuously. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the glaze thickens and becomes sticky.
  7. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). The glaze should coat the chicken and the pan should have a rich, syrupy sauce. (2 minutes)
  8. Transfer the chicken to a plate, spoon extra glaze over it, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy skin. Do not move the chicken while searing skin-side down to build a crust. If glaze thickens too fast or looks like burning, lower heat and add a splash of water. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Reheat leftovers in a skillet or under broiler to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, pan-fried chicken, sweet sticky glaze, quick dinner

Find it online: https://evabake.com/crispy-honey-garlic-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-sweet-sticky-glaze-tips/