Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

From the moment the aroma of honey and soy sauce started wafting through my kitchen, I knew this Honey Soy Glazed Chicken recipe was going to be a winner. And boy, was I right! My family, usually a tough crowd to please when it comes to dinner, devoured every last piece of this sticky, savory, and utterly delicious chicken. The glaze, oh the glaze! It’s the perfect balance of sweet and salty, coating the chicken in a gorgeous, caramelized sheen that’s as visually appealing as it is flavorful. Honestly, this recipe has become a new weeknight staple in our house. It’s quick enough for a busy evening, yet impressive enough to serve to guests. If you’re looking for a chicken dish that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further – you’ve found your culinary gold.

Ingredients

This Honey Soy Glazed Chicken recipe is surprisingly simple, relying on pantry staples to create a flavor explosion. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Thighs (Boneless, Skinless): 2 lbs. The star of the show! Boneless, skinless thighs are perfect as they remain juicy and flavorful even when cooked at higher temperatures, and they soak up the marinade beautifully. You can also use bone-in, skin-on thighs for richer flavor, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Soy Sauce (Low Sodium): ½ cup. The umami backbone of the glaze. Low sodium is recommended to control the saltiness, allowing the other flavors to shine. You can use regular soy sauce, but be mindful of the salt and perhaps reduce the amount slightly, or adjust other ingredients to balance.
• Honey: ¼ cup. The natural sweetener that provides that signature glaze and sticky texture. Use a good quality honey for the best flavor – wildflower, clover, or even buckwheat honey will work wonderfully, each adding a slightly different nuance to the dish.
• Rice Vinegar: ¼ cup. Adds a crucial tanginess that cuts through the sweetness and saltiness, creating a balanced flavor profile. Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute if rice vinegar isn’t available, though it will have a slightly different flavor.
• Garlic (Minced): 4 cloves. Essential for adding aromatic depth and savory notes. Freshly minced garlic is always best for maximum flavor, but pre-minced garlic from a jar can be used for convenience.
• Ginger (Freshly Grated): 1 tablespoon. Provides a warm, spicy kick that complements the honey and soy beautifully. Fresh ginger is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor and aroma. If you must substitute, use ground ginger sparingly, as it has a different flavor profile.
• Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon. Adds a nutty, fragrant aroma and flavor that is characteristic of Asian-inspired cuisine. Toasted sesame oil is preferred for its richer flavor, but regular sesame oil will also work.
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon. Used to thicken the glaze to that perfect sticky consistency that clings to the chicken. Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
• Water: 2 tablespoons. Helps to dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth glaze.
• Sesame Seeds (for Garnish): Optional. Adds a visual appeal and a subtle nutty crunch to the finished dish. Toasted sesame seeds are even better for enhanced flavor.
• Green Onions (for Garnish): Optional. Provides a fresh, vibrant finish and a mild oniony bite that complements the richness of the chicken.

Instructions

Making this Honey Soy Glazed Chicken is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a guaranteed delicious outcome:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a homogenous and flavorful marinade. This marinade is the key to infusing the chicken with incredible flavor and creating that signature sticky glaze. Take a moment to smell the aroma – the combination of soy, honey, and ginger is already enticing! You can adjust the sweetness or saltiness at this stage if you prefer; for a sweeter glaze, add a touch more honey, and for a saltier glaze, add a pinch more soy sauce (though be mindful of over-salting).

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece of chicken is fully submerged and coated in the marinade. This ensures even flavor distribution throughout the chicken. Use your hands or tongs to gently toss the chicken, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or, ideally, for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. Longer marinating times allow the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final dish. If marinating in the refrigerator, ensure the bowl is covered with plastic wrap or placed in a sealed container. Overnight marination is also possible, but be mindful that the chicken might become slightly too salty if marinated for excessively long periods due to the soy sauce.

Step 3: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the chicken, ensuring it cooks through while developing a beautiful glaze. While the oven is preheating, prepare a baking dish. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Choose a baking dish that is just large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer, without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than baking, which can hinder browning and glaze development. If using parchment paper, ensure it extends slightly beyond the edges of the dish to act as handles for easy removal later.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. This extra marinade will contribute to the glaze as the chicken bakes. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh to ensure it is fully cooked. Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken thighs and your oven. During baking, you might want to baste the chicken with the pan juices once or twice to enhance the glaze and keep the chicken moist.

Step 5: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

While the chicken is baking, prepare the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth and there are no lumps. This slurry is crucial for thickening the remaining marinade into a luscious glaze. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in the water; otherwise, it might clump up when added to the hot liquid. Set the slurry aside until the chicken is almost done baking.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the baking dish from the oven. Carefully pour the cornstarch slurry into the baking dish with the chicken and pan juices. Stir gently to combine the slurry with the pan juices. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened and become glossy. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this stage to prevent the glaze from burning. The glaze should transform from a watery liquid to a rich, sticky, and shimmering coating. You can increase the oven temperature to broil for the last 1-2 minutes (watching very carefully!) to further caramelize the glaze and add a slightly charred, smoky flavor, but this step is optional and requires close monitoring to prevent burning.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Remove the Honey Soy Glazed Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Garnish the chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added visual appeal and a fresh, aromatic finish. The sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch, and the green onions offer a mild oniony bite that complements the rich glaze.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Honey Soy Glazed Chicken hot, alongside your favorite sides. It pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. The sticky, savory, and sweet glaze is incredibly addictive, making this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of your homemade Honey Soy Glazed Chicken!

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, based on 4 servings, approximate values and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Serving Size: 1 Chicken Thigh (approximately)
• Calories: 350 kcal (Provides energy for daily activities)
• Protein: 35g (Essential for muscle building and repair)
• Fat: 15g (Includes healthy fats from sesame oil and chicken)
• Carbohydrates: 10g (Primarily from honey and soy sauce, providing quick energy)
• Sodium: 500mg (From soy sauce, consider using low sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake)

Note: These values are estimates and can vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (Includes marinating preparation and ingredient gathering)
• Marination Time: 30 minutes – 4 hours (Enhances flavor and tenderness; longer marination yields better results)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (Baking time, including glazing and resting)
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 4 hours 45 minutes (Depending on marination time, allows for flexible meal planning)

This Honey Soy Glazed Chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner as it’s relatively quick to prepare, especially if you opt for a shorter marination time. However, planning ahead and marinating for a few hours will significantly enhance the flavor.

How to Serve

This versatile Honey Soy Glazed Chicken can be served in numerous delicious ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Classic Rice Bowl: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The rice soaks up the delicious glaze beautifully, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.
• Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the glazed chicken with cooked noodles like udon, ramen, or soba. Add stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a complete and balanced meal. A drizzle of extra sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: Shred the Honey Soy Glazed Chicken and serve it on top of a vibrant Asian salad. Combine mixed greens, shredded cabbage, carrots, edamame, and a sesame ginger dressing. The sweet and savory chicken complements the fresh and crunchy salad perfectly.
• Lettuce Wraps: Dice the chicken and serve it with crisp lettuce cups (like butter lettuce or romaine). Offer a variety of toppings such as shredded carrots, cucumbers, bean sprouts, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a fun and interactive meal.
• Steamed Buns (Bao Buns): Fill fluffy steamed bao buns with shredded Honey Soy Glazed Chicken, pickled vegetables (like carrots and daikon radish), and a touch of hoisin sauce or sriracha. This makes for a delicious and trendy appetizer or light meal.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the glaze complements the savory roasted vegetables beautifully.
• In a Bento Box: Honey Soy Glazed Chicken is perfect for packing in a bento box for lunch. Pair it with rice, steamed edamame, pickled ginger, and a side of fruit for a well-rounded and satisfying midday meal.
• With Mashed Sweet Potatoes: For a comforting and slightly healthier option, serve the chicken with creamy mashed sweet potatoes. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the savory glaze of the chicken, creating a delightful flavor combination.

Additional Tips for Perfect Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

Want to take your Honey Soy Glazed Chicken to the next level? Here are eight essential tips for achieving culinary perfection:

1. Don’t Skip the Marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor and tenderizing the meat. Even a short 30-minute marinade makes a difference, but longer marination (2-4 hours or even overnight) will result in significantly more flavorful and tender chicken. The marinade acts as a flavor bath, penetrating deep into the chicken fibers.
2. Pat the Chicken Dry Before Baking: Before placing the marinated chicken in the baking dish, pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the chicken brown better in the oven and ensures the glaze adheres properly. Excess moisture can hinder browning and lead to steaming instead of baking.
3. Use Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Soy sauce can be quite salty, and using low sodium soy sauce allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. You can always add a pinch of salt later if needed, but it’s harder to remove saltiness once it’s there. Low sodium soy sauce also allows the other flavors, like honey and ginger, to shine through.
4. Fresh Ginger and Garlic are Key: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger provide a much brighter and more vibrant flavor compared to their powdered counterparts. Take the extra few minutes to use fresh ingredients – it will make a significant difference in the final taste of your Honey Soy Glazed Chicken. The aromatics are crucial for building depth of flavor in Asian cuisine.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Ensure the chicken thighs are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish, without overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake, resulting in pale and less flavorful chicken. If necessary, use two baking dishes to ensure proper spacing. Proper air circulation around the chicken is essential for even cooking and browning.
6. Baste for Extra Glaze: During baking, baste the chicken with the pan juices once or twice. This helps to keep the chicken moist and enhances the glaze, creating a beautiful, sticky coating. Basting helps to redistribute the glaze and prevents the chicken from drying out.
7. Watch the Glaze Carefully: When glazing the chicken in the final minutes of baking, keep a close eye on it. The honey in the glaze can burn easily if overcooked. Bake just until the glaze is thickened and glossy, and avoid letting it become too dark or charred unless you are aiming for a slightly caramelized edge (which can be desirable, but requires careful monitoring).
8. Rest Before Serving: Allow the Honey Soy Glazed Chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. Resting also makes the chicken easier to slice or serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Honey Soy Glazed Chicken

Here are some common questions and answers to help you make the perfect Honey Soy Glazed Chicken every time:

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are generally more forgiving and tend to stay juicier than chicken breasts, which can sometimes dry out. If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking and reduce the baking time slightly, checking for doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.

Q2: Can I grill the Honey Soy Glazed Chicken instead of baking it?
A: Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill over medium heat, turning occasionally and basting with the remaining marinade, until cooked through and nicely glazed. Be mindful of flare-ups due to the honey in the glaze, and adjust the heat as needed. Grilling time will vary depending on the heat of your grill and the thickness of the chicken.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to overnight in the refrigerator. You can also bake the chicken ahead of time and reheat it gently in the oven or microwave. However, the glaze is best when freshly made, so consider glazing the chicken just before serving for optimal texture and shine. Reheating might slightly affect the glaze’s stickiness, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Q4: What if I don’t have rice vinegar? Can I substitute something else?
A: If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. These will provide a similar tanginess, although the flavor profile will be slightly different. Apple cider vinegar will have a slightly fruitier note, while white wine vinegar is a bit sharper. Lemon juice or lime juice can also be used in a pinch, but use a bit less as they are more acidic.

Q5: Can I add vegetables to bake with the chicken?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables to the baking dish. Hearty vegetables like broccoli florets, bell pepper chunks, onion wedges, or carrots work well. Toss the vegetables with a little olive oil and seasoning, and add them to the baking dish around the chicken during the last 20 minutes of baking, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Q6: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free by ensuring you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Also, verify that your sesame oil and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have a strict gluten-free diet. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check packaging to be certain if you are highly sensitive.

Q7: How do I store leftover Honey Soy Glazed Chicken?
A: Store leftover Honey Soy Glazed Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven, microwave, or skillet until heated through. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth when reheating can help to prevent the chicken from drying out and revive the glaze.

Q8: Can I make the glaze spicier?
A: Absolutely! To add a spicy kick, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade, or add a teaspoon of sriracha or gochujang. You can also serve the finished chicken with a drizzle of chili oil or a side of your favorite hot sauce for those who like extra heat. Experiment with different levels of spice to find your perfect balance!

Print