Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is a flavorful and convenient dish that brings together the rich umami of soy sauce, the sweetness of honey, and the aromatic kick of garlic. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, it's a satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet notes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• Potato starch

• All-purpose flour

• Garlic powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Neutral oil (for pan frying)

For the Sauce:

• Chicken stock (or water with chicken bouillon)

• Honey

• Rice vinegar

• Dark soy sauce

• Cornstarch

For Garnish:

• Green onions (green parts)

• Sesame seeds

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine chicken stock, honey, rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. In a shallow dish, mix potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat each chicken thigh evenly with the mixture.

3. Pan Fry the Chicken: Heat enough neutral oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Prepare the Sauce in the Same Pan: In the same pan, sauté minced garlic, the white part of the green onions, and red chili flakes until the garlic is golden brown, about 3 minutes. Add the prepared sauce to the pan and cook for 1 minute or until the sauce has thickened.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the fried chicken thighs to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and coated with the glossy sauce.

6. Serve: Plate the chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more red chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for an extra spicy flavor.

• Crispier Texture: Double coat the chicken by dipping in egg wash before coating with the starch-flour mixture.

• Vegetable Add-ins: Include sliced bell peppers or broccoli florets in the pan during the last few minutes of cooking for added texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out faster. Consider marinating them briefly before cooking to retain moisture.

Is it necessary to use dark soy sauce?

Dark soy sauce adds a deeper color and richer flavor. If unavailable, you can use regular soy sauce, but the taste and appearance may differ slightly.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake the coated chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before using.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in thighs may require an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas can be added to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prep. Store the chicken and sauce separately to maintain texture, and reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a go-to recipe for quick and satisfying meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a dish that brings comfort and taste to your table. Whether you're cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.