Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please any palate. The natural sweetness of honey complements the rich, savory notes of garlic and herbs, creating a glaze that enhances the chicken's succulence. The searing process locks in juices, while baking ensures the chicken is cooked through and tender. It's a one-pan meal that's both convenient and impressive, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 5–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in, adjusting cooking time)

• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

• 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced

• 5 tablespoons honey

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¼ teaspoon dried basil

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

2. Sear the chicken: In an oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the honey, oregano, thyme, and basil until well combined.

4. Combine and bake: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, coating them with the sauce on both sides. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink and the juices run clear. Flip the chicken halfway through the baking time.

5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a simple side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce for a spicy twist.

• Citrus Infusion: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon or orange juice into the sauce for a zesty flavor.

• Herb Blend: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme to customize the taste.

• Bone-In Option: Use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor; adjust the cooking time to 40 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, about 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave, covered, in 1-minute intervals until heated.

FAQs

How can I make the skin extra crispy?

To achieve crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out more easily. Consider marinating them beforehand and adjusting the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

Is it necessary to use an oven-safe skillet?

While an oven-safe skillet is convenient, you can sear the chicken in any skillet and transfer it to a baking dish for the oven.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking to enhance the flavors.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, store the cooled chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can be used; typically, use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

What if I don't have honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as substitutes for honey.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, sear the chicken first, then cook on low for 4–6 hours in the slow cooker with the sauce.

Conclusion

Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a go-to choice for delicious, home-cooked comfort food.

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This Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe combines sweet honey and savory garlic flavors with tender, juicy chicken thighs seared and baked to perfection. It's a simple yet impressive dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking, Searing
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

5–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or bone-in, adjust cooking time)

Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

5 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced

5 tablespoons honey

½ teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon dried thyme

¼ teaspoon dried basil

Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In an oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken thighs 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Add minced garlic and sauté about 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in honey, oregano, thyme, and basil until combined.
4. Return chicken to skillet, coat with sauce on both sides. Transfer skillet to oven and bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
5. Sprinkle fresh parsley over chicken before serving. Serve with rice, pasta, or salad.

Notes

• For crispy skin, broil chicken for last 2–3 minutes, watching closely.
• Bone-in thighs can be used; increase baking time to about 40 minutes.
• Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar if honey is unavailable.
• To add spice, include red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce.
• Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 5 days; reheat in oven or microwave.
• Can marinate chicken in sauce for a few hours before cooking for enhanced flavor.
• Freeze leftovers up to 3 months; thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg