Name: Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ⅓ cup honey; ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup Green Onions; 2 tbsp cooking oil; 1½ tbsp garlic; 1 tbsp white vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; ¾ tsp fresh ginger; 2½ lbs chicken thighs; salt and pepper; Fresh Parsley

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs. This Asian-inspired dish features a sweet and salty honey soy sauce glaze that gives the chicken an irresistible flavor. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of flavors before it's baked to perfection, resulting in a juicy, succulent main dish that's sure to impress.

Photos of Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

All the ingredients required for this recipe are generally common and should be readily available in your pantry. However, be aware that we've used low sodium soy sauce to control the salt level since the marinade reduces and coats the chicken thighs. Feel free to substitute with regular soy sauce but adjust the added salt accordingly. Green onions, sesame oil, and fresh ginger might not be staples in everyone's kitchen but are essential here to lend that authentic Asian touch. They are easily found in the produce and international aisle of any supermarket.

Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Ingredients

Honey: Natural sweetener that provides a delightful sweetness to the marinade.\n**Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the chicken.\nGreen onions: Provides a mild, sweet onion flavor and adds color to the dish.\nCooking oil: Helps in binding all the ingredients of the marinade together.\nGarlic: Adds a pungent, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.\nWhite vinegar: Gives a tangy flavor and tenderizes the chicken.\nSesame oil: Imparts a nutty, aromatic flavor to the chicken.\nFresh ginger: Adds a warm, spicy aroma and flavor, balancing the sweetness of the honey.\nChicken thighs: The star ingredient, chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful.\nSalt and pepper: Season the chicken to taste.\nFresh parsley**: Adds a fresh, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

One reader, August Lockett says:

This honey soy baked chicken thighs recipe is a game-changer! The marinade is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, and the chicken comes out so juicy and flavorful. It's a hit with my family every time I make it. Plus, it's so easy to prepare! Highly recommend trying it out.

August Lockett

Techniques Required for Making Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

How to marinate the chicken: Combine honey, soy sauce, green onions, cooking oil, garlic, vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger in a shallow bowl. Mix well and place the chicken in the marinade, covering it and allowing it to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible.

How to bake the chicken: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Transfer the marinated chicken along with the marinade to a cast iron skillet or baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the chicken twice during baking to ensure even cooking and to prevent the top from drying out.

How to broil the chicken: After baking, broil the chicken for 5 minutes at high heat until it is golden browned and slightly charred on the edges. Ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.

How to garnish and serve: Garnish the baked chicken with parsley and optional sesame seeds. Serve the chicken with the pan juices over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, regular noodles, or mashed potatoes.

How To Make Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Baked chicken thighs are always a great dinner go-to. In this recipe, they’re smothered in a sweet-salty sauce with garlic, ginger, honey, and soy sauce.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓cuphoney
¼cuplow sodium soy sauce
¼cupgreen onions,finely chopped
2tbspcooking oil,(vegetable oil or canola oil)
1½tbspgarlic,(or 4 large cloves garlic), minced
1tbspwhite vinegar,apple cider or rice wine vinegar, optional
1tspsesame oil,optional
¾tspfresh ginger,minced
2½lbschicken thighs,skinless, boneless
salt and pepper,to season
fresh parsley,chopped, to garnish

Instructions

In a shallow bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, green onions, cooking oil, garlic, vinegar, sesame oil and ginger. Mix well and set aside.
Pat chicken dry with paper towel. Trim off any excess fat.
Season with salt and pepper then transfer chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Cover and marinade chicken for at least 30 minutes if time allows (or overnight).
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Transfer chicken along with the marinade to a cast iron skillet or baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping twice while baking to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out on top.
Broil for 5 minutes at high heat until golden browned and slightly charred on the edges. Chicken should have an internal temp of 165 degrees F.
Garnish with parsley and optional sesame seeds.
Serve chicken with pan juices over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, regular noodles or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Calories: 536.61kcal
Fat: 36.90g
Saturated Fat: 9.02g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.21g
Carbohydrates: 18.23g
Fiber: 0.52g
Sugar: 15.67g
Protein: 32.60g
Cholesterol: 185.22mg
Sodium: 548.64mg
Calcium: 30.90mg
Potassium: 476.05mg
Iron: 1.82mg
Vitamin A: 55.55µg
Vitamin C: 4.65mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

When marinating the chicken, ensure to coat each piece evenly with the marinade. This will help to infuse the flavors more deeply into the chicken. If time allows, marinating overnight can result in even more flavorful and tender chicken. Also, flipping the chicken during baking ensures that it cooks evenly and absorbs the marinade from all sides. Lastly, broiling the chicken at the end of the cooking process can give it a nice, golden-brown finish and a slightly charred flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use boneless: Consider using boneless chicken thighs for quicker cooking and easier serving.

Double batch: Make a double batch and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal later.

Sheet pan: Use a sheet pan instead of a skillet for easier cleanup and a more even bake.

Multitask: While the chicken is baking, prepare the side dish to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup has a similar sweetness and viscosity to honey, making it a suitable replacement in this recipe.
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos have a similar umami flavor to soy sauce and can be used as a lower-sodium alternative.
cooking oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for cooking oil in this recipe.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a slightly fruity and tangy flavor similar to white vinegar.
sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a nutty flavor similar to sesame oil and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a similar flavor and aroma to the dish.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs, offering a similar dark meat flavor and texture.
fresh parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Elevate the plating: Arrange the honey soy baked chicken thighs in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is placed with precision and care.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant green garnishes, such as microgreens or chive blossoms, to create a striking contrast against the golden-brown chicken thighs.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the dish to breathe and the focal point to shine.
Employ geometric shapes: Introduce geometric elements, such as triangular rice molds or rectangular vegetable cuts, to add a modern and visually appealing aspect to the presentation.
Highlight the glaze: Brush an additional layer of the honey soy glaze on the chicken thighs just before serving, creating a glossy sheen that catches the light and adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce delicate edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the presentation.
Balance textures: Pair the honey soy baked chicken thighs with a side dish that offers a contrasting texture, such as a creamy cauliflower purée or a crisp and refreshing cucumber salad.
Emphasize the aroma: Just before serving, garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme, allowing the aromatic herbs to tantalize the senses as the dish is presented.

Essential Tools for Making Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Shallow bowl: A shallow bowl is used for marinating the chicken and allows for easy mixing of the marinade ingredients.
Paper towel: Paper towels are used to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and marinating.
Cast iron skillet or baking dish: A cast iron skillet or baking dish is used to bake the chicken in the oven. It helps to distribute heat evenly and gives a nice sear to the chicken.
Oven: The oven is used for baking the chicken thighs to perfection.
Cooking thermometer: A cooking thermometer is used to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Optional: Sesame seeds: Sesame seeds can be used as a garnish for the honey soy baked chicken thighs for added flavor and texture.

Storing and Freezing Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Let the chicken thighs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the honey soy chicken thighs, place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the container with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the thighs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the skin may not be as crispy.
If you want to freeze the uncooked marinated chicken thighs, place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag with the marinade. Remove as much air as possible and label the container with the date. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and follow the cooking instructions as normal.
To maintain the best quality and flavor, consume the stored or frozen honey soy chicken thighs within the recommended time frames. Avoid refreezing previously frozen and thawed chicken to prevent texture and flavor loss.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

To reheat leftover honey soy baked chicken thighs, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the chicken while ensuring it's heated through evenly.
Another option is to use the microwave. Place the chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become dry and tough.
For a quick and easy reheat, you can also use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil or butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you want to add some extra flavor and moisture to your reheated honey soy chicken, try basting it with some reserved marinade or a fresh batch of the honey soy sauce. This will help to revive the flavors and keep the chicken moist and tender.
For a tasty twist, slice the leftover chicken and use it as a topping for salads, rice bowls, or noodle dishes. The sweet and savory flavors of the honey soy marinade will complement a variety of ingredients and create a delicious new meal.

Interesting Fact About Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

The dish is a delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings.

Is Making Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs at Home Cost-Effective?

This honey soy baked chicken thighs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the dish can be prepared in large batches for leftovers. The use of chicken thighs is budget-friendly, and the marinade ingredients are versatile for other dishes. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-20, making it an affordable and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Are Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Healthy?

The honey soy baked chicken thighs recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that offers some health benefits, but it also has room for improvement. Let's break it down:

Healthy aspects:

Chicken thighs are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body
Ginger and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties and can boost the immune system
Green onions provide some vitamins and minerals

Less healthy aspects:

The recipe contains a significant amount of honey and soy sauce, which are high in sugar and sodium, respectively
Cooking oil and sesame oil add extra calories and fat to the dish
The marinade may cause the chicken skin to become quite charred during broiling, potentially leading to the formation of harmful compounds

To make this recipe healthier, I would suggest the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of honey and soy sauce in the marinade to lower the sugar and sodium content
Use a low-sodium soy sauce to further reduce the sodium levels
Opt for a healthier cooking oil, such as olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats
Remove the chicken skin before marinating and cooking to reduce the overall fat content
Increase the amount of ginger and garlic in the marinade for added flavor and health benefits
Serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to boost the nutrient content of the meal
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking or charring the exterior

Editor's Opinion on This Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

This honey soy baked chicken thighs recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The marinade infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of honey, soy, and aromatic spices, resulting in tender and juicy meat. The cooking process ensures a beautiful caramelization, adding depth to the dish. The final touch of fresh parsley and optional sesame seeds brings a pop of color and texture. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Steamed Rice: Create a fragrant jasmine rice with a hint of coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Cauliflower Rice: Transform cauliflower into a flavorful and healthy rice alternative with a touch of turmeric for a golden color.

Zucchini Noodles: Spiralize zucchini and toss with a lemon garlic dressing for a refreshing and light accompaniment.

Regular Noodles: Toss al dente noodles with a sesame soy dressing and crunchy vegetables for a satisfying and colorful side dish.

Similar Recipes to Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: A delicious and easy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and roasted broccoli creates a flavorful and healthy dish.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This vibrant and refreshing dish is perfect for a summer meal. The combination of juicy mango salsa and tender chicken creates a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and creamy soup that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that is sure to warm you up.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich and creamy filling, then baking until golden and bubbly. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the decadent filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with a refreshing and colorful appetizer featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze for a burst of sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella and juicy tomatoes.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry coulis for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe:

This recipe guarantees succulent and flavorful results, thanks to the perfect balance of honey and low sodium soy sauce. The addition of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil infuses the chicken with aromatic and savory notes. The use of green onions and white vinegar adds a delightful tanginess. The meticulous instructions ensure that the chicken thighs are tender and juicy, while the option to marinate overnight enhances the depth of flavor. The final touch of fresh parsley and optional sesame seeds elevates the dish, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Share your thoughts on this delicious Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. I'd love to hear your feedback and any tweaks you made to the recipe!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or brown sugar. Keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly depending on the sweetener used.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This can help to save time when you're ready to cook the chicken.

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

It's best to use thawed chicken thighs for this recipe to ensure even cooking. Thaw the chicken thighs in the refrigerator before marinating for the best results.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

You can use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute for white vinegar. Each vinegar will impart a slightly different flavor to the dish, so choose based on your preference.