Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Transform your dinner table with these Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe. Combining the tender juiciness of chicken with a perfectly balanced sweet and savory marinade, this recipe is easy to prepare and full of flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight meals or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Ingredients for Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

This recipe serves 4 people and uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

For the Chicken and Marinade:

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
⅓ cup (80 ml) honey
⅓ cup (80 ml) soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
4 green onions, thinly sliced (reserve some for garnish)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Serving:

1½ cups steamed rice
Steamed or roasted vegetables (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and sliced green onions.
Mix until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking dish or sheet pan with foil for easy cleanup.

4. Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over the top.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and caramelized.
If desired, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy finish.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with reserved green onions and serve hot with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Savory Perfection: The honey and soy sauce combination creates a deliciously balanced glaze.
Easy and Quick: Minimal prep and hands-off baking time make this a hassle-free recipe.
Juicy and Tender: Baking the chicken thighs locks in their natural juices for a succulent texture.
Versatile Pairing: Pairs well with a variety of sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

1. Use Bone-In Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs retain more moisture and deliver better flavor compared to boneless cuts.

2. Don’t Skip Marinating

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors into the meat.

3. Line the Baking Dish

Lining the baking dish with foil makes cleanup easier, as the honey marinade can caramelize and stick.

4. Baste the Chicken

Spoon some of the marinade over the chicken halfway through baking for extra flavor and a glossy finish.

Variations and Serving Ideas

Spicy Honey Soy Chicken

Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Citrus Twist

Add the juice and zest of one orange or lime for a citrusy flavor boost.

Pair With:

Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the savory-sweet sauce.
Roasted broccoli, green beans, or bok choy for a healthy and colorful side.
A fresh cucumber salad to balance the richness of the chicken.

FAQs About Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs

1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead?

Yes! Adjust the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes, as chicken breasts cook faster.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I Freeze the Chicken?

Absolutely! Freeze the marinated chicken raw or the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

A Sweet and Savory Dish for Any Occasion

These Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs are a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s as simple to make as it is delicious. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Explore more tried-and-tested recipes HERE!

Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and juicy flavors!