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Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Skillet

Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Skillet - featured image

A quick and flavorful chicken skillet recipe ready in just 20 minutes, featuring a perfect balance of sticky honey sweetness and garlicky punch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup honey (85g)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of salt
  • Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch for subtle heat)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear without moving for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. (7 minutes)
  3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. The internal temperature should reach around 165°F (74°C), but it will finish cooking in the sauce. (5 minutes)
  4. Push the chicken to one side of the skillet. Lower heat to medium, add minced garlic to the empty side. Stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
  5. Pour in 1/4 cup honey, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Stir to mix and let it bubble gently for 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly. (2 minutes)
  6. Spoon the sauce over each piece of chicken, turning them to coat evenly. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry before cooking is essential for crispy skin. Control heat carefully to avoid burning the garlic and sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Boneless chicken breasts can be used but watch cooking time to avoid dryness.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey garlic chicken, quick chicken recipe, skillet chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, honey garlic sauce