Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of our Honey Baked Chicken. This dish combines the rich, deep flavors of soy sauce and honey with a hint of ginger and garlic, creating a glaze that’s irresistibly sticky and delicious. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this chicken recipe is easy to make yet impressively flavorful, sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Sweet and Savory: The perfect balance of honey’s sweetness and soy sauce’s savoriness.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this dish is both convenient and delightful.
- Versatile: Serve with a variety of sides to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
- 2 1/2 pounds (1.2 kg) chicken thighs (skinless, boneless)
- Salt and pepper to season
- Fresh chopped parsley to garnish
Instructions
Marinating the Chicken:
- Prepare Marinade: In a shallow bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, green onions, cooking oil, garlic, vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger.
- Season Chicken: Pat chicken dry, trim excess fat, and season with salt and pepper.
- Marinate: Transfer chicken to the marinade bowl, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Baking the Chicken:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake: Place the chicken and marinade in a cast-iron skillet or baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping twice to prevent drying.
- Broil: For the final 5 minutes, broil the chicken until golden and slightly charred at the edges.
Serving:
- Check Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish: Sprinkle with parsley and optional sesame seeds.
- Serve: Enjoy with pan juices over your choice of side.
FAQ
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Adjust cooking times as needed, as breasts may cook quicker.
Q: How can I thicken the pan juices for a sauce?
A: Simmer the pan juices on the stove with a cornstarch slurry until thickened to your liking.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes, marinate the chicken overnight and bake when ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored and reheated.
Honey Baked Chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to please with its sticky, sweet glaze and tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a regular weeknight dinner, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. So why wait? Get your ingredients ready, and prepare for a tasty adventure with this delectable honey-baked delight!
