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Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (Sweet & Savory Dinner Idea)

A quick and flavorful dinner idea featuring juicy chicken thighs coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze. Perfect for weeknights, this dish combines sweet and savory flavors with minimal prep.
Prep Time10 minutes
Active Time20 minutes
Resting Time5 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Dinner Recipes, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Keyword: easy chicken dinner, honey garlic chicken thighs, sticky chicken thighs, sweet and savory chicken, weeknight chicken recipe
Yield: 4 people
Calories: 385kcal
Cost: $5

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Tongs

Materials

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs bone-in or boneless
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 0.5 cup honey
  • 0.33 cup soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, for brightness
  • 1 tsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
  • 2 tbsp water for cornstarch slurry
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  • Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Set aside.
  • Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
  • Add sauce: Pour honey garlic mixture into the pan and reduce heat. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
  • Optional thickening: Mix cornstarch with water, then stir into sauce if you want a stickier glaze.
  • Rest and serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions.

Notes

Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, but reduce cooking time to prevent dryness.
Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy variation.
Pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.