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Easy One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: The Best Dinner

one-pan honey garlic chicken thighs - featured image

These honey garlic chicken thighs get a sticky, glossy lacquered look with tender meat, melted garlic, and a savory-sweet sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes with one pan and minimal mess, this is the perfect busy weeknight dinner that looks like you fussed.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 68 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, fresh parsley, lemon juice for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Set aside.
  3. Place a large skillet (12-inch, preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan, leaving space between each piece. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
  5. Flip the thighs and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
  6. Pour the honey garlic mixture into the pan around the chicken (not directly over the skin). Let it bubble and reduce for 2-3 minutes, spooning sauce over the chicken occasionally until thickened and glossy.
  7. Remove pan from heat. Let chicken rest in the pan for 2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and spoon remaining sauce over the top. Garnish as desired.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, pat chicken dry and let sit uncovered in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Don’t move the chicken once it’s in the pan. If sauce starts to burn, reduce heat to medium-low. Let chicken rest 2 minutes before serving. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, one-pan chicken, chicken thighs, easy dinner, weeknight dinner, sticky chicken, garlic chicken, honey chicken