Honey Garlic Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances the sweetness of honey with the savory richness of garlic. Whether you prefer chicken thighs or drumsticks, this recipe promises tender and juicy chicken coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. With a harmonious blend of flavors and a simple preparation process, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Equipment Needed:

1. Baking dish
2. Mixing bowls
3. Whisk
4. Basting brush
5. Aluminum foil
6. Kitchen thermometer (optional, for checking chicken doneness)

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks, skin-on or skinless
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger (if using).
• Whisk the ingredients together until the honey is fully dissolved and the sauce is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Set aside.

2. Preparing the Chicken:

• If using chicken thighs, trim off any excess fat and pat them dry with paper towels. If using drumsticks, you can leave them as is.
• Season the chicken thighs or drumsticks with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. Marinating the Chicken:

• Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag.
• Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Reserve a small portion of the sauce for later use.
• Cover the dish or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours.

4. Baking the Chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
• Arrange the marinated chicken thighs or drumsticks in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
• Pour any remaining marinade over the chicken pieces.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

5. Glazing and Caramelizing:

• After 30 minutes of baking, remove the aluminum foil from the baking dish.
• Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
• Using a basting brush, generously brush the chicken pieces with the reserved honey garlic sauce.
• Return the uncovered baking dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and caramelized, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for thighs or 175°F (80°C) for drumsticks.
• Keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. The chicken should be golden brown and the sauce should be thick and sticky.

6. Serving:

• Once the Honey Garlic Chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and added flavor, if desired.
• Serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.
• Enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet and savory flavors in every bite of this delicious Honey Garlic Chicken.

With its sticky glaze and tender, juicy meat, Honey Garlic Chicken is a true crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Whether you choose chicken thighs or drumsticks, the sweet and savory combination of honey and garlic will have everyone coming back for seconds. Impress your family and friends with this irresistible recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.