Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs – Easy Oven-Baked Recipe

These Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are an easy oven-baked dinner with irresistible golden skin, juicy meat, and a sticky-sweet garlic glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe

The first time I made this easy honey garlic chicken dinner, it was out of desperation on a busy Tuesday night. Just a pack of bone-in chicken thighs, a few pantry staples, and 45 minutes later—dinner magic.

What makes this crispy oven-baked chicken thigh recipe stand out is the balance of textures and flavors: the skin crisps beautifully in the oven while the meat stays tender and moist. The glaze—made with garlic, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil—adds a rich, sticky coating that’s sweet, savory, and just a little tangy.

This is one of those weeknight baked chicken recipes you’ll turn to again and again, whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends. It’s unfussy, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious.

Recipe Highlights

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Servings: 4–6

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

For the Chicken:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (2–2.5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

For the Honey Garlic Glaze:

• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack.
2. Pat chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin.
3. In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Arrange on the rack, skin-side up, leaving space between each piece.

Step 2: Bake

1. Bake for 25 minutes, or until skin starts to turn golden and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. While the chicken bakes, combine garlic, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a saucepan.
2. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish Baking

1. After 25 minutes, brush the chicken with the honey garlic glaze on all sides.
2. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for deeper caramelization.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
2. Drizzle with extra glaze and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro.
3. Serve hot and enjoy every crispy, juicy bite!

Nutrition (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 385
• Fat: 21g
• Carbs: 22g
• Protein: 28g
• Sugars: 20g
• Sodium: 680mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates based on standard ingredients.

Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Dry Chicken = Crispy Skin: Don’t skip patting the thighs dry.
• Room Temp Matters: Let chicken sit out for 20–30 minutes before baking.
• Check the Temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
• Make It Spicy: Add sriracha or double the red pepper flakes.
• Maple Twist: Sub half the honey with maple syrup for a different flavor.
• Citrus Note: Add orange zest and juice for a bright variation.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Pair this dish with easy sides to complete your weeknight dinner meal:

• Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
• Roasted green beans or broccoli
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Crisp green salad with sesame dressing
• Asian-style coleslaw
• Steamed bok choy

Storing & Reheating Tips

Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to keep the skin crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Freezing? Yes! Cool completely and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes. Reduce the total cook time to about 25 minutes. You won’t get crispy skin, but the flavor will still be incredible.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your labels to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely. Prep the chicken and sauce the night before. Glaze and finish baking before serving.

Final Thoughts

These crispy honey garlic chicken thighs are more than just another weeknight dinner—they’re a family favorite that feels fancy without the fuss. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting guests, this recipe delivers every time.

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