Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Honey garlic chicken thighs are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and rich flavors that make a comforting and satisfying meal. In this recipe, juicy chicken thighs are seared until golden and then coated in a sticky honey garlic sauce that caramelizes beautifully. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and tender glazed carrots, this dish offers a well-balanced plate with both indulgent and fresh elements. The sauce seeps into every bite, making it irresistible. For the best results, cook the chicken skin-side down first to achieve a crispy, flavorful crust before adding the sauce.
Ingredients
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs / 900 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup honey (80 ml)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30 ml)
- 1 teaspoon salt (6 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g)
- 1 tablespoon butter (14 g)
- For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed (900 g)
- 1/2 cup milk (120 ml)
- 2 tablespoons butter (28 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
- For the Glazed Carrots:
- 2 cups carrots, sliced (300 g)
- 1 tablespoon butter (14 g)
- 1 tablespoon honey (15 ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (1 g)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the potatoes: Place cubed potatoes in a pot of salted water. Boil for 12–15 minutes until tender, then drain.
- Mash the potatoes: Add milk, butter, and salt to the potatoes and mash until smooth and creamy. Keep warm.
- Cook the carrots: In a skillet, melt butter and add carrots, honey, and salt. Cook for 6–8 minutes until tender and lightly glazed.
- Season the chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken skin-side down for 6–7 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook another 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and sauce: Stir in garlic, honey, soy sauce, and butter. Cook for 3–5 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken as it thickens.
- Serve: Plate chicken thighs with mashed potatoes and glazed carrots, spooning extra sauce over the top.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly since they cook faster.
Q2: How do I get crispy skin?
Cook the chicken skin-side down first without moving it until it becomes golden and crispy.
Q3: Can honey garlic chicken thighs be made ahead?
Yes. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
