Imagine a dish so incredibly delicious that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary adventure. These Hoisin and Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs are not just a meal; they're a flavor explosion that combines the rich, umami depth of Asian cuisine with the irresistible sweetness of honey. With a perfectly crispy skin, succulent meat, and a glaze that caramelizes to glossy perfection, this recipe is about to become your new obsession in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and better glaze adherence.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, making sure to get under the skin and season the meat directly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined to create a smooth, glossy glaze.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and place an oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
- Add the chicken thighs skin-side down to the hot skillet, allowing the skin to render and become golden brown and crispy, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken thighs and brush generously with the prepared hoisin-honey glaze.
- Transfer the skillet with chicken to the preheated oven and roast for 15-18 minutes, basting with additional glaze every 5 minutes to create a rich, caramelized exterior.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Garnish with optional chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving, and drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken.
Tips
- Dry Skin is Key: Always pat your chicken thighs completely dry before cooking. This ensures the skin gets wonderfully crisp and the glaze adheres perfectly.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken is cooked to a safe 165°F (74°C) without drying out the meat.
- Glaze Technique: Baste the chicken multiple times during cooking to build layers of flavor and create a beautiful, glossy caramelization.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
- Customize Your Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and visual appeal.Pro Tip: For an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the glaze for 1-2 hours before cooking, allowing the seasonings to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
