Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, this recipe for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs is just what you need. It’s one of those meals that comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. The combination of tender chicken thighs and a sweet, garlicky sauce is so delicious that you’ll want to make it again and again!

This recipe not only packs a punch in flavor but also keeps things simple with easy-to-find ingredients and minimal cleanup. Let’s dive into why this dish has become a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze after your meal.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or sides for a well-rounded meal.
• Make Ahead: These chicken thighs are great for meal prep! Cook them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Let’s gather what we need to make these scrumptious Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs!

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken thighs boneless skinless
• 3 tbsp potato starch
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp neutral oil for pan frying
• 8 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 2 stalks green onion (green and white parts separated)
• 1 tsp red chili flakes

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup chicken stock (sub: water & chicken bouillon)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch

For Garnish

• Green onion (green part)
• Sesame seeds

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or broccoli in the pan while frying the chicken for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies for an extra kick.
• Change the sweetness: Swap honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re looking for a different sweetener.

How to Make Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients together. Combine ½ cup of chicken stock (or substitute with water and chicken bouillon), 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Stir until smooth and set this aside. Preparing the sauce first allows its flavors to blend beautifully while you cook the chicken.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Next, take your boneless skinless chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. On a large plate, mix together the potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Lightly coat each chicken thigh on both sides with this mixture. This step gives your chicken that delightful crispy exterior we all love.

Step 3: Pan Fry the Chicken

Heat enough neutral oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to cover the bottom. Once hot, add your coated chicken thighs. Fry them until they’re golden brown on both sides—about 7 minutes per side. This step ensures your chicken gets perfectly crispy while locking in moisture.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic & Add Sauce

Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan, add minced garlic, the white part of green onion, and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown; this brings out its rich flavor. Now pour in your prepared sauce and cook it for about 1 minute until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine & Serve

Return the cooked chicken back into the pan with your thickened sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and beautifully glazed with that delectable sauce. Serve your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs with steamed rice and your favorite veggies for a complete meal everyone will enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to make your meal even better!

• Pat the Chicken Dry: Starting with dry chicken thighs ensures a crispy coating when frying. Excess moisture can lead to steaming instead of browning, so grab that paper towel!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and green onions not only enhance the flavor but also bring a vibrant color to your dish. Fresh ingredients can elevate any recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to thicken properly is key for that glossy finish. A thick sauce clings beautifully to the chicken and intensifies the flavor with each bite.
• Control the Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat is essential for achieving that golden crust without burning. Adjusting your heat ensures even cooking and prevents any mishaps.
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let your chicken sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

How to Serve Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Presentation is just as important as taste! Serving your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs beautifully can impress your family or guests while adding a touch of elegance.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle on top for a fresh crunch and burst of color.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add both texture and nutty flavor, making your dish visually appealing.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, sprinkle some extra flakes on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fragrant rice complements the rich soy garlic sauce perfectly, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Sautéed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutritional value and a nice crunch. Sauté with a bit of garlic for added flavor!
• Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers bring vibrant color and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing offers a crisp, cool balance to the hearty chicken dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal that’s not only easy but also bursting with flavor! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time, ensuring you have tasty, homemade meals ready for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely.
• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave on medium power until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Yes, you can use bone-in thighs! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What sides go well with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

These delicious chicken thighs pair wonderfully with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or your favorite grain for a complete meal.

Can I substitute ingredients in Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs! They’re not only simple and quick but also bursting with flavor that friends and family will love. Enjoy this delightful dish as part of your weeknight meals, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy cooking!