Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet

If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in one skillet, look no further than this Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet. Juicy, tender chicken thighs glazed in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce make every bite a delight. This dish combines the natural richness of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with the perfect balance of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. It’s a weeknight winner that’s simple enough for busy evenings but impressive enough for guests. Plus, the skillet method means minimal cleanup—always a win in my book!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet recipe quickly became a staple in my meal rotation because it checks all the boxes:

• Flavor-packed: The honey and garlic create an irresistible glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken skin.
• Simple ingredients: You probably already have everything in your pantry and fridge.
• One-pan magic: Cook everything in the same skillet for less mess and more convenience.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Comfort food with a twist: It’s familiar yet a little adventurous thanks to the fresh ginger and soy sauce.

If you love dishes like Hot Honey Butter Fried Chicken, this skillet recipe offers a fresher, lighter take while still delivering that craveable honey-garlic punch.

What’s in the Bowl

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on: The star of the dish, these thighs stay juicy and flavorful with the skin crisped up nicely.
• 1/4 cup honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps create that lacquered glaze.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness to balance the honey’s sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a warm, slightly spicy note to brighten the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken and building flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and sauce.
• 2 green onions, chopped: A fresh, crisp garnish to finish the dish.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted and sprinkled on top for a subtle crunch and nutty aroma.

Equipment at a Glance

• Large skillet or frying pan: Preferably oven-safe if you want to finish the chicken in the oven (optional).
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Grater or microplane: To grate fresh ginger.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping garlic and green onions.
• Tongs or spatula: To flip and move chicken thighs with ease.
• Small bowl: To mix the honey garlic sauce.

Method: Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Dry skin is key for crispiness. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes without moving them, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Spoon some sauce over the chicken and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Step 5: Glaze and Garnish

As the sauce reduces, it will thicken and coat the chicken beautifully. Spoon the sticky glaze over the thighs a few times while cooking. Once done, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet hot, ideally with steamed rice or your favorite grain. For a heartier meal, try pairing it with stir-fried vegetables or a fresh side salad.

If you’re looking for another comforting chicken dish with rice, you might enjoy the Garlic Parmesan Chicken And Rice—a creamy, cheesy delight!

In-Season Swaps

• Chicken cuts: If you prefer boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, you can use those, but adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid drying out.
• Soy sauce alternatives: For a lower sodium version, use tamari or coconut aminos.
• Sweeteners: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey if desired.
• Ginger substitutes: Ground ginger works in a pinch, though fresh is best for brightness.
• Garnishes: Swap green onions for fresh cilantro or parsley, and sesame seeds for crushed peanuts or cashews for extra texture.

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip drying the chicken skin before searing—it won’t crisp up properly if wet.
• Avoid cooking on too high heat once the sauce is added, or the sauce will burn before the chicken cooks through.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If your pan is too small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning.
• Refrain from stirring the sauce constantly; let it simmer gently to thicken and coat the chicken.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

You can make this Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet ahead and freeze it for later meals. Cook the chicken through but stop just before glazing it with sauce. Cool completely, then place chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat the chicken in a skillet, and add the sauce last to glaze. This keeps the texture fresh and delicious.

Handy Q&A

Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can, but keep in mind the skin adds a wonderful crisp texture and helps keep the meat juicy. Without skin, cook the thighs carefully to avoid drying out and consider adding a bit more sauce for moisture.

Is it necessary to use fresh ginger?

Fresh ginger provides a bright, zesty flavor that ground ginger can’t quite match. However, if you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger is an acceptable substitute—use about 1/4 teaspoon for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Absolutely! After searing the chicken thighs skin-side down on the stovetop, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Then add the sauce to the pan and simmer on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken.

What sides pair best with this skillet chicken?

This dish goes beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed greens, or roasted veggies. For a bowl meal, try the Crispy Honey Soy Chicken Bowls for inspiration on how to build a balanced plate around these flavors.

Desserts to Finish

• Classic Honey Butter Cake – Sweet, buttery, and the perfect finale to a honey-themed meal.
• Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars – Tart and creamy, a refreshing contrast after savory chicken.
• Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream – Light and subtly sweet, ideal to cleanse the palate.

See You at the Table

Nothing beats gathering around the table for a meal that’s both comforting and full of vibrant flavors. This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Skillet is sure to become a family favorite, turning everyday dinners into moments to savor. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight supper or a casual weekend feast, the luscious glaze and crispy skin will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to garnish generously with green onions and sesame seeds—they add that extra pop of freshness and texture.

Enjoy the magic of this one-pan wonder and happy cooking!

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