Introduction

Sticky Honey Soy Baked Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of honey and soy sauce to create an irresistible glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with family and friends, this recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to cook chicken. The dish is easy to prepare, and the end result is tender, juicy chicken coated in a mouthwatering sauce that will leave everyone wanting more.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken thighs – 2 pounds
Soy sauce – 1/2 cup
Honey – 1/3 cup
Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
Ginger, grated – 1 teaspoon
Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
Green onions, chopped – for garnish
Sesame seeds – for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 40 minutes
Total Time – 55 minutes
Yield – 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until the honey is fully dissolved.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours for best flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) to ensure it’s hot when the chicken is ready to bake.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Place the pieces on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking. Reserve the leftover marinade for later.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade for additional flavor and moisture.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

After 25 minutes, switch the oven to broil (grill) mode. Broil the chicken for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the skin is crispy and caramelized, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Cooking Times

Adjust cooking times based on the size of your chicken pieces. Ensure they are fully cooked before consumption (internal temperature should reach 75°C or 165°F).

Note 2: Marinating

For maximum flavor, marinating the chicken for longer periods (up to overnight) in the refrigerator is highly recommended.

Note 3: Serving Suggestions

Serve the honey soy chicken with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to balance the sweetness of the dish.

Note 4: Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat properly before serving.

Cook techniques

Marinating

To enhance the flavor of the chicken, marinating in honey, soy sauce, and other seasonings allows the meat to absorb all the delicious flavors, resulting in a more succulent dish.

Baking

Baking the chicken in the oven helps to evenly cook the meat while allowing the skin to caramelize, creating a sticky and flavorful glaze.

Glazing

During baking, regularly basting the chicken with the marinade creates a sticky, glossy coating that intensifies the flavor and gives a beautiful finish to the dish.

Resting

Allowing the chicken to rest after baking ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful when served.

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of drumsticks, and they will provide a similar tasty result.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is recommended for optimal flavor absorption, but marinating overnight will provide even better results.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for baking, you could adapt it for a slow cooker by using similar ingredients and cooking on low for several hours.

What can I serve with sticky honey soy baked chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the glaze.

Conclusion

The Sticky Honey Soy Baked Chicken recipe is an incredibly flavorful dish that combines sweet and savory elements, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep. It showcases how simple ingredients can create a profound taste experience and allows for versatility in serving options.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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