1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs for Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Absolutely. Boneless thighs cook slightly faster and are easier to slice for bowls, wraps, or salads. They also soak up the honey garlic glaze beautifully. Just reduce the cooking time by 3–5 minutes to prevent overcooking.

2. What if I don't have fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic gives the boldest flavor, you can substitute it with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove. For a stronger taste, use jarred minced garlic. The flavor of Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs will still be rich and satisfying.

3. Is there a sugar-free option for the glaze?

Yes! You can swap honey with sugar-free maple syrup or a monk fruit sweetener blend. These alternatives still create a sticky glaze, making your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs lower in sugar but just as flavorful.

4. How can I make this meal more balanced?

Pair the chicken with high-fiber sides like brown rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. Add leafy greens or a simple cucumber salad to round out your meal. Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a perfect anchor for a balanced plate.

5. Can I cook Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours. Thicken the sauce by removing the lid for the last 30 minutes or using a cornstarch slurry. Cooking it low and slow yields incredibly tender chicken that nearly melts off the bone.

How to Make the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Juicy, Sweet & Protein-Packed

Name: Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Juicy, Flavor‑Packed & High‑Protein
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin-on preferred); 2 tsp garlic powder; Salt & black pepper, to taste; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup water or chicken broth; 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar; 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; (Optional) 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water for thickening; (Optional) red pepper flakes or chili sauce for heat

Description

Juicy, protein-rich chicken thighs glazed in sweet-savory honey garlic sauce ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless, skin-on preferred)

2 tsp garlic powder

Salt & black pepper, to taste

6 garlic cloves, minced

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup water or chicken broth

2 tbsp rice wine vinegar

1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce

(Optional) 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water for thickening

(Optional) red pepper flakes or chili sauce for heat

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken dry and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear thighs skin-side down for 6–7 minutes, then flip and cook 5–6 minutes more.

3. Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in honey, water or broth, vinegar, and soy sauce. Stir and bring to a simmer.

5. Let sauce reduce for 3–5 minutes. Add cornstarch slurry if a thicker glaze is desired.

6. Spoon sauce over chicken as it simmers, then remove from heat.

7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve.

Notes

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.

Reheat via microwave, oven, or stovetop with a splash of broth.

Great for rice bowls, wraps, or with roasted vegetables.

Use tamari for gluten-free version or maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly glaze.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 243
Sugar: 13g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 95mg