If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to make, these Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs (One-Pan) are exactly what your weeknight needs. Combining the sweet allure of honey with the robust punch of garlic and ginger, this recipe transforms humble chicken thighs into a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. The best part? It all comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs (One-Pan) recipe is a total game-changer for busy cooks who want something delicious without fuss. The rich, caramelized skin paired with a sticky, savory-sweet glaze makes every bite irresistible. Plus, using bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs ensures juicy meat and crispy skin, a combo that’s hard to beat. Since it’s all cooked in a single pan, you save time on washing dishes and can focus on enjoying your meal. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, this recipe fits effortlessly into your weeknight or weekend plans.

What You’ll Gather

6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce (choose a low-sodium variety if preferred)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Gear Checklist

Large oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan – for even cooking and crisping the chicken skin
Measuring cups and spoons – to get your sauce ratios just right
Sharp knife and cutting board – for mincing garlic, ginger, and slicing green onions
Tongs – to flip and handle the chicken easily
Mixing bowl – to whisk together your honey-garlic sauce

Make Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs (One-Pan): A Simple Method

Step 1: Prep the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt until smooth. This sauce will infuse the chicken with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in your oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for 3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Sauce and Simmer

Pour the honey-garlic sauce evenly over the chicken thighs. Lower the heat to medium and let everything simmer for 5 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken occasionally to coat it well.

Step 4: Finish in the Oven

Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce thickens into a sticky glaze.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. These thighs pair beautifully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or even tossed over pasta for a hearty meal.

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Honey: Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar if you want a different natural sweetener.
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs can be used but expect slightly less crispy results.
Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil adds great flavor, but you can swap it with peanut oil or more olive oil if needed.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

Burnt Garlic: Mince garlic finely but add it with the sauce to avoid burning during searing.
Sticky Sauce Too Thin: If sauce doesn’t thicken enough in the oven, remove the chicken and simmer the sauce on the stovetop until it reaches desired consistency.
Chicken Not Crispy: Make sure the pan and oil are hot before adding chicken skin side down; don’t overcrowd the pan.
Overcooked Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to prevent drying out; thighs stay juicier than breasts, but timing is key.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Allow leftover Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs (One-Pan) to cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the skin crisp, or warm in the oven. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Lemon Butter Herb Chicken Orzo Skillet – A lighter, fresh take on chicken and pasta in one pan.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo – A cozy dish with similar flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners.
One-Pan Balsamic Chicken with Vegetables – A tangy and colorful option loaded with fresh veggies.
Skinny Sesame Chicken – A lightened-up version of Asian-inspired chicken that’s full of flavor.

Save & Share

If you loved these Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs (One-Pan), don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and share it with friends and family who appreciate fuss-free, flavorful meals. It’s the kind of dish that’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness!

When it comes to a dinner that checks all the boxes—easy prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor—this Honey-Garlic Chicken Thighs (One-Pan) recipe truly shines. The sticky, glossy sauce clings to crispy chicken skin, delivering a satisfying bite every time. Plus, the fresh ginger and garlic add a fragrant warmth that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe invites you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle. Try it tonight and watch it become a fast favorite.

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