Description
Golden-baked chicken thighs with a caramelized honey soy glaze offer a sweet and savory Asian-American fusion dish. Juicy meat and crisp skin make this easy recipe perfect for weeknights or feasts.
Ingredients
2 lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (halal/free-range preferred)
½ cup soy sauce (or tamari gluten-free)
¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
3 cloves garlic (minced or paste)
1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and pepper in a bowl.
Pour marinade over chicken thighs, pressing mixture into skin for adherence.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until golden and crisp at edges.
Brush remaining marinade over thighs, return to oven for 15-20 minutes to caramelize.
Let rest 10 minutes on cutting board before serving.
Notes
Brine thighs in saltwater (1/4 tsp salt per cup water) for 30 minutes for juicier results
Use a glass baking dish for even browning; avoid metal to prevent sticking
Baste only once during cooking to avoid burning liquid
Flip thighs halfway for even cooking
Maple syrup substitutes honey in vegan version
Avoid opening oven frequently during baking to maintain temperature
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 thighs
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 120mg