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Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Crispy Skin


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  • Author: Emma Parker
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

Juicy chicken thighs with perfectly crispy skin are coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze for an easy, flavorful dinner. This skillet chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – The skin crisps beautifully while the bone helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the chicken sear evenly and prevents sticking.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds warm flavor and a beautiful golden color.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory garlic flavor to the chicken.
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder – Provides additional savory depth.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild peppery heat.

For the Honey Garlic Sauce

  • ⅓ cup honey – Creates the sweet, glossy glaze and helps caramelize the chicken.
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced – Adds bold, aromatic garlic flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – Adds savory umami flavor and balances the sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – Adds brightness and balances the richness of the honey.
  • 1 tablespoon chicken broth or water – Helps loosen the sauce to the right consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil, optional – Adds a subtle nutty flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional – Adds a gentle spicy kick.

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh chopped parsley
  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Season both sides with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet.
  6. Sear for 6–8 minutes without moving until the skin is golden brown and crisp.
  7. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4–5 minutes.
  8. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
  9. Pour the honey garlic sauce around and over the chicken.
  10. Simmer gently for 5–8 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken several times.
  11. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  12. Turn the chicken skin-side up and cook uncovered for another 1–2 minutes if needed to restore crispness.
  13. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes.
  14. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, parsley, cilantro, or red pepper flakes.
  15. Serve hot with rice, potatoes, vegetables, or salad.

Notes

  • Pat chicken thighs completely dry before searing for crispier skin.
  • Keep the honey garlic sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent burning.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated for 3–4 days and reheat to 165°F (74°C).
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 servings
  • Calories: 430 calories