Welcome to the recipe that will permanently replace your Chinese takeout order: perfectly caramelized and incredibly tender Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. This dish is the epitome of quick, comforting cuisine, delivering an explosive balance of sweet honey and pungent garlic, wrapped up in a glossy, sticky glaze. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs guarantees juicy results every single time, making this a foolproof meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Forget dry chicken breasts and complicated steps. We’re focusing on a high-impact, low-effort technique searing the chicken for color and finishing it in a concentrated, reduced sauce. The magic truly lies in the sticky sauce, which thickens perfectly to coat every morsel of savory chicken. If you crave that deeply satisfying, caramelized flavor that clings to rice or noodles, you have found your new staple recipe.
Why You Will Absolutely Love These Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
There are countless chicken recipes in the culinary world, but few offer the immediate satisfaction and delicious simplicity of good Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a culinary triumph that appeals to palates of all ages, from the pickiest eaters to the most seasoned gourmands. But what exactly makes this dish so universally adored?
Unbeatable Texture and Tenderness
The key to the exquisite texture of this dish lies in the choice of protein: boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out quickly, chicken thighs are rich in fat and connective tissue. This composition allows them to remain incredibly moist and tender, even when simmered in a potent sauce. When cooked correctly seared first, then gently simmered they absorb the rich flavors of the sauce while staying juicy on the inside. The initial sear provides a gorgeous golden-brown crust, adding a layer of texture that contrasts beautifully with the sticky, smooth finish of the final glaze. This combination of tender meat and a caramelized exterior is simply irresistible.
The Perfect Sweet and Savory Balance
The flavor profile of our signature Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs sauce hits all the right notes. It expertly navigates the line between sweet and savory without becoming cloying. The richness of the honey provides a deep, floral sweetness, while the soy sauce (especially low-sodium) brings the necessary umami and saltiness. Crucially, the addition of apple cider vinegar introduces a bright acidity that cuts through the sweetness and fat, preventing the dish from tasting too heavy. This complexity is rounded out by copious amounts of fresh, minced garlic and the optional but highly recommended fresh ginger, which adds a clean, zesty bite. It’s a sophisticated flavor that tastes like it took hours, but only requires minutes.
Faster Than Takeout, Better Quality
In the rush of a busy week, many people default to ordering delivery. However, this recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs can easily be on your table in under 30 minutes significantly faster than waiting for a delivery driver. By preparing the sauce ingredients while the chicken is searing, you streamline the cooking process. Plus, cooking at home gives you complete control over the quality of ingredients, allowing you to use fresh garlic and ginger, and choose lower-sodium options, ensuring a healthier and more vibrant meal than what you might find pre-packaged.
The final element you’ll love is the Sticky Honey Garlic Glaze. That moment when the cornstarch slurry hits the reduced sauce, transforming it instantly into a thick, glossy, restaurant-quality glaze, is pure kitchen magic. It’s the finishing touch that truly defines this recipe and cements its status as a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Why You Should Try This Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe Today
If you’re looking to revitalize your weeknight dinner rotation, this recipe offers practical solutions and flavor mastery. Adopting this Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs preparation method guarantees success, even for novice cooks, and addresses several common kitchen challenges.
A Budget-Friendly Powerhouse
Chicken thighs are consistently one of the most economical cuts of meat available, offering great flavor without the premium price tag of breasts or specialized cuts. The majority of the flavor comes from inexpensive pantry staples: honey, soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar. This means you can create a luxurious, satisfying meal that feeds the whole family without breaking your budget. This dish proves that incredible flavor does not require expensive ingredients.
Versatility and Perfect Pairing
One of the greatest assets of this Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a vast array of side dishes. For a classic meal, serve it over steamed white or brown rice to soak up every drop of that sticky glaze. For those seeking lighter options, it complements quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a fresh side salad perfectly. We often serve this with perfectly roasted vegetables; for instance, these Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts are ready almost simultaneously. Alternatively, if you prefer comfort carbs, a side of creamy Easy Garlic Mashed Potatoes provides an excellent pairing for soaking up the sauce.
Ideal for Meal Prepping
The robust nature of chicken thighs means this dish holds up exceptionally well when prepared ahead of time. It’s a fantastic choice for weekly meal prep. Cook a large batch on Sunday, and you have lunches and dinners ready for the next few days. The glaze retains its stickiness and the chicken remains tender when reheated, unlike many other proteins that can dry out. Simply portion the finished Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with your chosen grain or vegetable side and refrigerate.
Mastering the Sear and the Glaze
This recipe provides an excellent opportunity to practice two fundamental cooking techniques: searing and creating a balanced glaze. Mastering the initial sear getting that deep, golden-brown crust without overcooking the meat is a skill that translates to steaks, pork chops, and other proteins. Similarly, learning how to properly reduce and thicken a sauce using a cornstarch slurry is an invaluable technique. Once you’ve perfected the glossy finish of this Sticky Honey Garlic Glaze, you can apply this method to countless other stir-fries and skillet meals.
Ready to transform humble chicken thighs into a culinary masterpiece? Let’s gather the components for this satisfying, Asian-inspired meal. For more dinner inspiration and quick meal ideas, be sure to follow our boards on Pinterest: Recipes Ebook Blog on Pinterest.
Ingredients and Essential Tools for Perfect Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Success in making Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs starts with preparation. Having all your ingredients measured and tools ready a concept known as ‘mise en place’ will ensure a smooth, quick cooking process and help you achieve that signature sticky, savory flavor.
A Detailed Look at the Ingredients
The components of this recipe fall into three categories: the chicken, the seasoning, and the transformative honey garlic sauce. Precision with these ratios is key to that perfect balance.
For the Chicken Preparation:
- 8 Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 2.5 pounds total): Choose boneless for quick cooking and skinless for maximum sauce absorption. Ensure they are trimmed of excess large fat pieces.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the meat internally and helping to draw out moisture during the dry-patting phase.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper: Standard seasoning for depth.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder: Used in the rub to build a foundational layer of flavor before the fresh garlic sauce is added.
- 1 Tablespoon Olive oil or vegetable oil for searing: Use an oil with a medium-high smoke point to achieve a good sear without burning.
The Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce Components:
This vibrant sauce combines classic Asian pantry staples with fresh aromatics for depth and complexity.
- 1/2 cup Soy sauce (low sodium preferred): Low sodium is crucial. Since the sauce reduces significantly, using full-sodium soy sauce can make the final glaze overwhelmingly salty.
- 1/2 cup Honey: This provides the sweetness, viscosity, and the beautiful caramelization. Use quality liquid honey.
- 1/4 cup Water or chicken broth: Used to thin the initial sauce mixture, ensuring it doesn’t burn during the reduction process. Chicken broth adds a slight depth of savory flavor.
- 4 cloves Garlic, finely minced: Don’t skimp on the garlic! This quantity delivers that authentic, pungent garlic punch that defines the dish. Mince it finely to allow its oils to fully infuse the sauce.
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh ginger, grated (optional): While optional, ginger adds a layer of warmth and spice that elevates the dish far beyond simple sweet and salty. Use a microplane or fine grater for the best results.
- 1 Tablespoon Apple cider vinegar: The necessary acid component. It cuts the richness of the honey and soy, balancing the flavor profile and adding a tangy brightness.
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil: Added primarily for its strong, nutty aroma, which provides a key finishing note common in Asian cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon Cornstarch (for thickening): The magical ingredient that transforms the liquid sauce into a thick, glossy glaze.
Garnish (For Presentation and Freshness):
- 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a pleasant visual texture and crunch.
- 2 Tablespoons Fresh parsley or chopped green onions: Fresh herbs provide a burst of color and freshness, counteracting the richness of the glaze. Green onions are traditional for an Asian flair.
Recommended Tools and Utensils
While this recipe is simple, using the right equipment ensures optimal results, especially when it comes to searing and thickening the sauce.
Essential Utensils for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
You don’t need highly specialized tools, but a few key items will make the process seamless:
- Large Skillet or Frying Pan: This is the workhorse of the recipe. A 10-inch or 12-inch skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, is ideal. Non-stick is acceptable, but stainless steel or cast iron provides a much better sear (browning) which is essential for flavor (fond) development.
- Tongs: Necessary for safely flipping and maneuvering the chicken during searing and glazing.
- Whisk: Used for blending the sauce ingredients and, most importantly, for quickly mixing the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce to prevent lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is important, especially for the soy sauce and honey ratio.
- Small Bowls (2): One for the seasoning rub, and a very small one for preparing the cornstarch slurry.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For mincing garlic and grating ginger.
- Meat Thermometer: The only way to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Paper Towels: Absolutely essential for patting the chicken dry before seasoning.
The combination of these simple ingredients, coupled with the proper searing technique, sets the stage for creating the most satisfying Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs you have ever tasted.
Detailed Recipe Steps: Achieving the Perfect Glaze and Tender Meat
Executing this recipe for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs involves a strategic process that ensures maximum flavor infusion and the perfect sticky texture. Follow these steps precisely for restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
This initial step might seem minor, but it dictates the quality of your final sear.
Start by taking the chicken thighs out of their packaging. Using clean paper towels, pat the chicken thighs completely dry. Any surface moisture will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, preventing that crucial golden-brown crust (the Maillard reaction) from forming. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs. Ensure the seasoning adheres well to the dry surface.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken for Flavor Development
Searing builds the foundational flavor called ‘fond’ that makes the glaze so rich.
Heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You know the oil is ready when it starts shimmering slightly. Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot pan. Crucial Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan. If your pan is small, work in two batches. Overcrowding drops the pan temperature, resulting in steaming instead of searing.
Sear the chicken undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and caramelized. The chicken will still be raw in the middle; we are focusing solely on color and texture here. Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a clean plate. Keep the pan with the browned bits (fond) and residual fat.
Step 3: Whisk the Honey Garlic Sauce Base
With the chicken set aside, it’s time to build the flavor bomb.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (low sodium), honey, water or broth, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. This is the sauce base.
In a separate, very small bowl, prepare the cornstarch slurry. Mix the 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. It must be cold to prevent lumps from forming. Whisk until it is completely smooth and milky. Set the slurry aside; this is used in the final step.
Step 4: Reduce and Infuse the Sauce
Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce mixture into the large skillet where you seared the chicken. Increase the heat slightly to medium. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, continuously scraping up any browned bits (the fond) from the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon or spatula. These browned bits are concentrated flavor and must be incorporated into the sauce.
Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice the sauce beginning to slightly thicken and reduce in volume, concentrating the flavors of the garlic, honey, and vinegar.
Step 5: Return the Chicken and Finish Cooking
This is where the chicken absorbs the aromatic sauce.
Return the seared Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs to the skillet, placing them directly into the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid, which helps trap moisture and heat, allowing the chicken to cook through gently. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip the chicken pieces halfway through the simmering time to ensure they are evenly coated and cook symmetrically.
The chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh.
Step 6: Thicken the Glaze to Perfection
The final, exciting step: creating the sticky glaze.
Once the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), remove the thighs from the skillet and place them back onto a clean plate. Increase the heat under the skillet to medium and bring the remaining sauce back to a rapid simmer.
Re-whisk the cornstarch slurry quickly, ensuring no cornstarch has settled at the bottom. Pour the slurry into the rapidly simmering sauce while whisking continuously and quickly. The sauce should immediately thicken into a glossy, sticky glaze within 30 to 60 seconds. Do not boil the sauce vigorously after adding the cornstarch, as this can break down its thickening power. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately once the desired thickness is reached.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Return the cooked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs to the skillet. Use tongs to toss them gently in the sticky, beautiful honey garlic glaze until they are completely coated, ensuring every surface is glistening. Serve the chicken thighs hot, drizzled with any excess sauce from the pan. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions or parsley before serving. We recommend serving this delicious meal with a side of Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta for a complete and utterly satisfying dinner.
Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
While the base recipe for these Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is straightforward, a few expert tips and variations can help you customize the dish and prevent common kitchen mishaps.
Essential Cooking Tips to Avoid Mistakes
- Temperature Control is Key for Searing: If your pan is too cold, the chicken won’t brown. If it’s too hot, the sugar in the seasoning rub (from the garlic powder) might burn before the chicken develops color. Medium-high heat is usually the sweet spot for a stainless steel or cast iron skillet.
- Pat, Pat, Pat: We cannot stress enough the importance of thoroughly drying the chicken. If the surface is damp, you lose the opportunity for a proper sear, sacrificing essential flavor and texture.
- The Power of the Slurry: Always mix cornstarch with cold liquid before adding it to a hot sauce. Adding dry cornstarch directly will result in immediate, intractable lumps. Also, ensure the sauce is at a vigorous simmer when the slurry is added; the heat activates the cornstarch molecules.
- Low Sodium is Non-Negotiable: As the sauce reduces, the salt concentrates. If you use regular soy sauce, the final glaze will likely be too salty. Always opt for low-sodium soy sauce.
Flavor and Ingredient Variations
This recipe provides a fantastic foundation that is easy to adapt to different dietary needs or taste preferences.
Spice It Up (Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs)
To turn this into a spicy-sweet favorite, incorporate heat into the sauce:
- Add 1 teaspoon of chili garlic sauce (like Sriracha or Sambal Oelek) directly into the honey garlic sauce mixture in Step 3.
- Alternatively, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce when it starts simmering (Step 4).
Gluten-Free Version
It is incredibly simple to make these Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs completely gluten-free. Simply replace the standard soy sauce with Tamari or a certified gluten-free coconut aminos. Tamari will provide a darker, richer color and flavor, while coconut aminos will offer a slightly sweeter profile. Ensure the chicken broth (if used) is also certified gluten-free.
Alternative Cuts (Chicken Breasts)
If you prefer white meat, you can use chicken breasts, but you must adjust the technique. Pounding the breasts to an even 3/4-inch thickness before searing ensures faster, more even cooking. Reduce the simmering time in Step 5 significantly (to about 4-6 minutes total) to prevent the breasts from drying out. Chicken breasts reach 165°F faster than thighs.
Vegetable Boost
For a complete one-pan meal, add vegetables toward the end. After removing the cooked chicken in Step 6, quickly sauté some broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, or snap peas in the rendered chicken fat before thickening the glaze. Return the vegetables and chicken to the glaze at the end for coating.
Meal Prep and Storage
Cooked Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or, even better, in a pan on the stovetop over low heat to refresh the glaze. You can also make a large batch of the honey garlic sauce base (before cornstarch is added) and store it in the fridge for up to a week, making quick weeknight cooking even faster.
Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
While this recipe delivers unparalleled comfort and flavor, it also offers significant nutritional benefits, especially when compared to similar sugar-laden takeout options. Chicken thighs, being dark meat, provide more iron and B vitamins than white meat, making them a dense source of essential nutrients.
Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – Assuming 2 Thighs)
Note: These values are approximations and vary based on the exact size of the thighs, type of honey used, and amount of oil absorbed during searing. Calculations assume 8 servings from 2.5 lbs of chicken.
| Nutrient | Estimated Value | Benefit/Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 350–400 kcal | Energy source for the body. |
| Protein | Approx. 30–35g | High-quality protein essential for muscle repair and satiety. |
| Fats (Total) | Approx. 18–22g | Includes beneficial unsaturated fats from the thighs; crucial for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins. |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 18–22g | Primarily derived from the honey, providing quick energy. |
| Sodium | Approx. 400–500mg | Managed by using low-sodium soy sauce; important for electrolyte balance. |
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Power-Packed Ingredients in Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
Chicken Thighs (High-Quality Protein)
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids needed by the human body. Protein is vital for maintaining lean muscle mass, supporting immune function, and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Furthermore, dark meat contains higher levels of zinc and iron compared to breast meat, supporting red blood cell formation and overall energy levels.
Garlic (Immune Booster)
Garlic is well-known for its active compound, allicin, which possesses powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Incorporating fresh, minced garlic into the sauce not only delivers incredible flavor but also provides a small, impactful boost to your immune system and cardiovascular health.
Honey (Natural Sweetener and Antioxidants)
While honey contributes to the sugar content, it is a natural sweetener that also contains trace amounts of vitamins, minerals, and potent antioxidants. Unlike refined sugar, high-quality honey (especially raw or local varieties) offers anti-bacterial properties. In this recipe, the honey also contributes to the beautiful caramelization and texture.
Ginger (Digestive Aid)
If you include the grated fresh ginger, you benefit from its known medicinal properties. Ginger is a celebrated anti-inflammatory agent and is widely recognized for its ability to soothe the digestive system and alleviate feelings of nausea or stomach upset. Its warming, pungent flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of the Sticky Honey Garlic Glaze.
By cooking these Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs at home, you ensure portion control and minimize unnecessary preservatives or high-fructose corn syrups often found in pre-made sauces, making this a much smarter and healthier choice for your family dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
How do I make the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs sauce thicker and glossier?
The key to a thick, glossy finish is the cornstarch slurry. Ensure the sauce is at a rapid simmer before pouring in the cornstarch mixed with cold water, and whisk constantly for about 30 seconds. If the sauce doesn’t thicken enough, remove the chicken, bring the sauce to a simmer, and add a small amount of additional cornstarch slurry (1/2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp cold water) until the desired glossy consistency is achieved.
Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?
No, you must fully thaw the chicken thighs before starting. Frozen chicken cannot be properly dried or seasoned, and trying to sear it will result in excessive steaming and a rubbery texture. Ensure the chicken is completely thawed, then pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels to get the best sear and flavor development for your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs.
What is the best way to store and reheat leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, you can use the microwave, but for best results, reheat the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs in a small skillet over medium-low heat. This revitalizes the sticky glaze and keeps the meat tender.
Why did my chicken thighs not get crispy during the sear?
There are usually two reasons for a poor sear: either the chicken was not patted dry, causing it to steam in the pan, or the pan was overcrowded, which drastically lowered the oil temperature. Make sure to work in batches if necessary, and ensure your pan is piping hot before adding the seasoned chicken.
Is fresh ginger truly necessary for the sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs?
While the recipe lists fresh ginger as optional, it is highly recommended. Fresh ginger provides a necessary layer of sharp, warm zest that cuts through the richness of the honey and soy sauce, resulting in a cleaner, more complex finish. If you omit it, the sauce may lean toward being overly sweet.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe
You have now mastered the art of creating perfectly tender, juicy, and utterly irresistible Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs. This recipe achieves a rare feat: combining speed and simplicity with profoundly deep flavor. The combination of the initial high-heat sear, the concentrated, savory-sweet reduction of the sauce, and the final sticky, glossy glaze results in a dish that rivals any restaurant favorite, often surpassing it in freshness and quality.
Whether you are seeking a reliable meal prep solution, a budget-friendly family dinner, or simply a quick culinary escape from typical weeknight fare, these Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs deliver. They are versatile enough to pair with simple rice or complex vegetable sides, and the necessary techniques like mastering the cornstarch slurry are skills you can carry into countless other dishes.
Don’t wait for a special occasion to try this. Gather your ingredients, grab your largest skillet, and prepare to elevate your dinner rotation forever. We are confident that once you taste the succulent chicken coated in this vibrant, Sticky Honey Garlic Glaze, this will become one of your most requested and shared recipes. Try it tonight, share your photos in the comments, and tell us what you served alongside your phenomenal Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs!

Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs (One Pan)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken. Heat the 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the hot pan. Ensure the pieces are not overcrowded; work in batches if necessary. Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Remove the seared chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Whisk the Honey Garlic Sauce. While the pan is still warm (reduce heat to medium-low if necessary), prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, water or broth, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. In a separate very small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Set the slurry aside for later.
- Step 4: Reduce the Sauce. Pour the prepared honey garlic sauce mixture into the large skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these bits add tremendous flavor to the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to slightly thicken and reduce.
- Step 5: Return the Chicken and Finish Cooking. Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them directly into the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the thighs are fully cooked and tender. Flip the chicken pieces halfway through the simmering time to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Step 6: Thicken the Glaze. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the thighs from the skillet and place them back onto the clean plate. Increase the heat under the skillet to medium and bring the remaining sauce back to a rapid simmer. Whisk in the cornstarch slurry quickly and continuously. The sauce should immediately thicken into a glossy, sticky glaze within 30 to 60 seconds. Remove the skillet from the heat immediately after thickening.
- Step 7: Glaze and Serve. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and toss them gently in the sticky honey garlic glaze until they are completely coated. Serve the honey garlic chicken thighs hot, drizzled with any excess sauce from the pan. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh green onions or parsley before serving.