Glazed Baked Chicken Thighs

These glazed baked chicken thighs are juicy, tender, and coated in a rich, sticky sauce with bold, savory-sweet flavor. Finished with a touch of fresh herbs, this easy yet elegant dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the ideal combination of simplicity and depth of flavor. The chicken stays moist and flavorful thanks to the glaze, which caramelizes as it bakes, locking in flavor and creating an irresistible finish. It’s made with pantry-friendly ingredients, requires minimal prep, and pairs well with a wide range of side dishes.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
‑ Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
‑ Soy sauce
‑ Honey or brown sugar
‑ Garlic (minced)
‑ Fresh ginger (grated)
‑ Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
‑ Olive oil or sesame oil
‑ Black pepper
‑ Paprika or chili powder (optional)
‑ Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, vinegar, oil, and seasoning.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the glaze over them, turning to coat evenly.
4. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is caramelized.
5. For extra crispness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
6. Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 35–40 minutes.

Variations

‑ Use boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks if preferred.
‑ Add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
‑ Replace honey with maple syrup or brown sugar.
‑ Mix in hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
‑ Add sesame seeds for texture and a nutty finish.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crispiness of the skin.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and cook slightly faster. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Should I marinate the chicken first?

It’s not required, but marinating for 1–2 hours enhances the flavor even more.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glaze and marinate the chicken the night before baking.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, though chicken breasts may be drier and need less time in the oven to prevent overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I freeze this dish?

Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Can I double the glaze?

Yes, doubling the glaze works well, especially if you want extra for drizzling or serving on the side.

What herbs can I use instead of cilantro?

Parsley, chives, or green onions are good alternatives for garnish.

Conclusion

Glazed baked chicken thighs are a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with savory depth. With a beautifully caramelized exterior and juicy interior, this recipe delivers on taste and versatility, making it a reliable favorite for any occasion.

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