Juicy Honey Soy Chicken Thighs: The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

Juicy Honey Soy Chicken Thighs: The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

This dish features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a delightful blend of soy sauce and honey. Juicy and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The marinade is simple yet effective, making this a go-to recipe when you want something both easy and impressive.

Ingredients###
8 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in)
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
* 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions###

1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.

4. Arrange the Chicken:
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Reserve the marinade.

5. Bake the Chicken:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and browned. If the thighs start to brown too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil.

6. Baste the Chicken:
While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Halfway through the baking time, baste the chicken with this reduced marinade for extra flavor and juiciness.

7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the thighs for a burst of color and added crunch. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serve these juicy honey soy chicken thighs with steamed rice, sauteed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy!