Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance with excitement! These Sweet and Spicy Glazed Chicken Thighs are not just another dinner recipe – they're a flavor explosion that combines the perfect balance of honey's sweetness and sriracha's fiery kick. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to an extraordinary meal, this recipe promises to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Set these aside for later use.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk together until well blended to create the glaze.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste, then place them skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken.
- Serve the sweet and spicy glazed chicken thighs with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for the full 2 hours if time permits. The longer it sits, the more deeply the flavors will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Crispy Skin Technique: Pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning to help achieve that irresistibly crispy skin.
- Broiling Bonus: The optional broiling step can create a beautiful caramelized exterior, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep the meat juicy and tender.
- Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to adjust the sriracha amount to make the dish more or less spicy according to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with steamed rice or roasted vegetables to complement the rich, bold flavors of the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
