Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

• 2.7 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2.5 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 tsp smoked paprika
• 1.5 tsp onion powder
• 1.5 tsp garlic powder
• 1.5 tsp kosher salt
• 0.75 tsp black pepper
• 5 garlic (minced)
• 2.5 tbsp butter
• 0.333 cup honey
• 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1.5 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, but recommended)
• 1.5 tbsp lemon juice
• 0.75 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• sesame seeds (for garnish)
• green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Steps

1. 1

   Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.

2. 2

   In a small bowl or directly over the chicken, season both sides of the thighs with the smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.

3. 3

   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

4. 4

   Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side until well browned and nearly cooked through.

5. 5

   Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and set aside.

6. 6

   Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the same skillet, using the residual fat and juices. Cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

7. 7

   Stir in the honey, low-sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.

8. 8

   Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.

9. 9

   Return the chicken and any accumulated juices from the plate back into the skillet.

10. 10

    Spoon the sauce over the chicken and simmer for 8–10 minutes, turning the thighs once or twice.

11. 11

    Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has reduced into a glossy, thick glaze coating the meat.

12. 12

    Garnish with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately, spooning any remaining sauce from the pan over the chicken.

Notes

The sauce quantity is specifically scaled for 2.7 lbs of chicken to ensure plenty of glaze. If using less chicken, you may want to reduce the sauce ingredients slightly. Pairs well with steamed rice or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• dinner
• chicken
• honey garlic
• high-protein
• skillet
• easy dinner