Description
Tender and flavorful Honey Soy Baked Chicken Thighs featuring a simple marinade of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, baked to crispy, golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Marinade
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Garnish
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare it for baking the chicken thighs to a crispy, golden finish.
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil if using. Whisk until the honey dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and well blended.
- Marinate the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in a resealable bag or bowl, pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.
- Bake the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour any leftover marinade over the chicken. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving to add texture and a fresh finish.
Notes
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
- Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juicier and more flavorful chicken.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- You can substitute rice vinegar with white vinegar if unavailable.
- Optional sesame oil and seeds add an authentic Asian flavor and extra texture.
