Introduction
This Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. With its sticky glaze and tender chicken pieces, it combines simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering flavor profile.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless): 800g
– Honey: 120ml
– Soy sauce: 75ml
– Garlic, minced: 15g
– Olive oil: 30ml
– Cornstarch: 20g
– Water: 30ml
– Salt: 5g
– Black pepper: 3g
– Green onions, sliced: 20g (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds: 10g (for garnish)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite side options for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop a deliciously caramelized exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well-blended. The aroma of the garlic and sweetness of the honey will tantalize your senses.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, ensuring they are spaciously arranged. Pour the prepared honey garlic mixture over the chicken, using a spoon or your hands to coat each piece thoroughly. The sticky glaze already forms as it envelops the chicken.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the juices should run clear. A delightful scent will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s almost time to eat.
Step 5: Keep the Chicken Warm
Upon removing the chicken from the oven, transfer the pieces to a plate. Cover them with foil to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Pour the remaining sauce from the baking dish into a small saucepan. In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth, then add this to the saucepan.
Step 7: Cook the Sauce
Set the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to a rich and glossy consistency. The sweet and garlicky fragrance will make your mouth water in anticipation.
Step 8: Serve with Sauce and Garnish
Drizzle the thickened sauce generously over the warm chicken. For a finishing touch, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, adding a pop of color and a hint of crunch.
Step 9: Enjoy
Serve the honey garlic chicken hot, accompanied by your choice of side dishes, such as steamed rice or sautéed vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress your family.
Notes
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can last for up to three days, maintaining its flavor.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or use a microwave if you prefer faster results.
Flavor Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey. If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an exciting twist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice or a fresh garden salad, offering a balance to the rich flavors of the chicken.
Cooking for a Crowd
If you need to serve more people, simply double the ingredients and ensure you have a large enough baking dish. Cooking time may vary slightly, so always check for doneness.
Garnishing Ideas
In addition to green onions and sesame seeds, you might consider adding chopped cilantro or even a squeeze of lime for an added burst of freshness.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken thighs in the honey garlic mixture enhances the flavor and tenderizes the meat. Allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, or longer if time permits.
Baking
Baking the chicken thighs at a high temperature helps to caramelize the honey and soy sauce, creating a deliciously sticky glaze while ensuring the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
Thickening Sauce
Using cornstarch mixed with water allows you to thicken the leftover marinade into a sauce. Heat it over medium heat while stirring continuously for a smooth, glossy finish.
Garnishing
Garnishing the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds adds a pop of color and enhances the overall presentation, as well as providing additional flavors and textures.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require a shorter cooking time to prevent drying out.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Honey Garlic Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as substitutes; however, the flavor will be slightly different.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Baked Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that are sure to please any palate. Its tender chicken thighs, coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze, make it an easy yet impressive dish for family dinners. The simplicity of the ingredients allows for a quick preparation, while the thickened sauce adds a gourmet touch. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with side dishes, this recipe is a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Try using shrimp instead of chicken for a lighter version of this dish. The honey garlic sauce pairs wonderfully with succulent shrimp, making it a quick and flavorful meal option.
Honey Garlic Glazed Vegetables
Roast a mix of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots with the same honey garlic sauce for a delicious side dish that complements the chicken beautifully.
Honey Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
Transform this baked dish into a stir-fry by sautéing bite-sized chicken pieces with bell peppers and snap peas in the honey garlic sauce for a quick weeknight meal.
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Marinate chunks of chicken in the honey garlic sauce, then thread onto skewers with bell peppers and onion. Grill or bake for a fun meal that’s perfect for gatherings.
Honey Garlic Meatballs
Use the honey garlic sauce as a glaze for meatballs made from ground chicken or turkey. Serve with rice or noodles for a tasty twist.
Honey Garlic Tofu
For a vegetarian option, cube firm tofu and cook it in the honey garlic sauce. Serve over steamed rice or quinoa for a healthy and satisfying dish.
