Baked Caramelized Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serves: 4
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 35–45 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt, or to taste
• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
• Optional: ½ tsp chili flakes for heat
• Optional: 1 tsp sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with foil or parchment.
2. Make the glaze. Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, black pepper, thyme, and chili flakes if using.
3. Season the chicken. Pat the thighs dry and lightly season with salt and pepper. Arrange them skin-side up in the baking dish.
4. Add the glaze. Brush the chicken generously with about half of the honey-garlic mixture.
5. Bake for about 25 minutes. Remove and brush with the remaining glaze.
6. Caramelize. Return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes, until the chicken is deeply golden and sticky. For extra caramelization, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely so the honey doesn’t burn.
7. Check doneness. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.