Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs Recipe

📝 Introduction

Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are a popular dish inspired by Korean and Asian flavors. They’re typically pan-seared or oven-baked for a crispy skin and then coated in a glossy, sticky soy-garlic glaze that clings to every bite. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh cucumber salad.

🧄 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any neutral oil)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Soy Garlic Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry, for thickening)
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes or sriracha (optional, for heat)

Garnish (optional):

  • Chopped green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Place chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy.
  3. Flip the thighs and cook the other side for another 5–6 minutes.
  4. Transfer chicken to a plate and pour off excess fat, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan.

Optional: You can finish the chicken in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to ensure it’s cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).

Step 3: Make the Soy Garlic Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
  2. Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and bring to a simmer.
  3. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

  1. Return the chicken thighs to the pan, spooning the glaze over each piece.
  2. Let them simmer in the sauce for 2–3 minutes, turning to coat thoroughly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
  2. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or sautéed greens.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Rice: Steamed jasmine or sticky rice balances the savory flavors.
  • Vegetables: Stir-fried bok choy, snap peas, or kimchi.
  • Pickled sides: Korean-style pickles or cucumber salad for contrast.

🧑‍🍳 Cooking Method Summary

MethodDescription
SearingCreates crispy skin and locks in moisture.
SimmeringInfuses flavor and thickens the glaze.
Optional BakingEnsures even cooking throughout.