Introduction

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together juicy, tender chicken thighs and a rich, sweet and savory sauce. This recipe features bone-in, skinless chicken thighs coated in a homemade honey garlic sauce that is simply irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish promises to impress your family and friends with its incredible flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

There are countless reasons to love this Baked Honey Garlic Chicken. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for quick honey garlic chicken for weeknight meals. Second, the flavor combination of honey and garlic creates a mouthwatering profile that appeals to all palates. Third, it’s versatile; you can serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Fourth, this dish is healthy, featuring gluten-free ingredients. Fifth, it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Lastly, the honey garlic chicken marinade can be used with other proteins, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.

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Ingredients for Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

Gather these items:

4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

How to Make Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven and pat the chicken thighs dry. Season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and vinegar or lemon juice. Mix well until the honey dissolves.
Step 3: Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Step 4: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Baste halfway through for extra flavor.
Step 5: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Ensure the chicken thighs are properly dried before seasoning for better sauce adherence.
For an even richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey garlic sauce for at least an hour before baking.
Bake at the right temperature to achieve a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

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Best Ways to Serve Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it with fluffy rice to soak up the delicious honey garlic sauce or alongside roasted vegetables for a nutritious meal. A fresh salad can also complement the sweetness of the baked chicken with honey garlic sauce, creating a well-rounded plate.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For meal prep enthusiasts, make a batch and portion it out for easy lunches. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Honey Garlic Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Honey Garlic Chicken?

The secret lies in the marinade! A good mix of honey, soy sauce, and garlic creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness. Make sure to marinate for at least an hour for the best flavor.

Can I make Baked Honey Garlic Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it thoroughly before serving. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or to impress guests without the last-minute rush.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Honey Garlic Chicken?

To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). Additionally, don’t skip the basting step; it keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.

Variations of Baked Honey Garlic Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different ingredients or sides. Try adding sriracha for a spicy kick, or substitute chicken thighs with breasts for a leaner option. You can also use this sticky honey garlic chicken recipe to marinate shrimp or tofu for a vegan alternative. The possibilities are endless!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category, or learn how to make spaghetti with garlic and oil for a quick meal. If you’re interested in healthy options, consider trying Mediterranean chickpea salad as a side dish.

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken: 5 Delicious Reasons to Try It

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Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender thighs coated in a rich honey garlic sauce that’s sweet, savory, and completely irresistible.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and pat the chicken thighs dry. Season with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
In a bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and vinegar or lemon juice. Mix well until the honey dissolves.
Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic sauce over them. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Baste halfway through for extra flavor.
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.