Are you ready for a delicious, hassle-free dinner? This One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is the perfect meal for busy evenings. With juicy chicken thighs, sweet honey, and fresh veggies, you’ll have a tasty dish on the table in no time. Plus, it all cooks in one pan, making cleanup easy! Let’s dive into how to prepare this simple and tasty meal that’s sure to impress your family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup honey
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
Seasoning and Sauce Components
– Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables
– 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– Fresh parsley for garnish
The ingredients for One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken are simple yet flavorful. The chicken thighs bring richness and a great texture. The skin-on aspect gives you that crispy finish. The olive oil adds a nice fat that helps with cooking and flavor. Honey is the star here, giving sweetness and a sticky glaze. Garlic brings a strong aroma and taste.
For seasoning, sea salt and black pepper are classic choices. The soy sauce enhances the umami flavor. Apple cider vinegar adds a tang that balances the sweetness. Ginger gives a warm spice, while red pepper flakes can add heat if you like.
For vegetables, fresh broccoli florets and red bell pepper add color and crunch. They soak up the sauce, making every bite tasty. Fresh parsley is the final touch, adding brightness and a pop of color.
With these ingredients, you create a meal that looks good and tastes even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet.
Cooking the Chicken
– Season 4 chicken thighs with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
– Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes.
– Flip the chicken and reduce the heat to medium. This keeps it from burning.
Making the Sauce and Adding Vegetables
– In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup honey, 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger.
– Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
– Scatter 1 cup of broccoli florets and 1 thinly sliced red bell pepper around the chicken. Make sure the veggies get some sauce.
Baking
– Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
– Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This means it is safe to eat.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get crispy chicken skin, start with dry chicken. Pat the skin with paper towels. This helps it crisp up nicely. Use a hot skillet and sear the chicken skin-side down. Let it cook without moving it for 5-7 minutes. This forms a beautiful golden crust. When you flip it, lower the heat to medium. This cooks it through without burning.
Flavor Enhancements
For extra flavor, think about adding spices. A pinch of paprika gives a nice smoky taste. You can also add a little garlic powder for depth. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary work wonders too. Toss them in before baking. They add a lovely aroma and fresh taste.
Cooking Alternatives
If you want to skip the oven, you can cook this on the stove. Just use a large skillet and cover it. This keeps the moisture in while cooking. You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. For a gluten-free option, swap soy sauce with coconut aminos. It tastes great and keeps the dish safe for everyone.
This One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is not just easy to make; it also allows room for creativity. You can adapt it to your taste and needs.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap chicken thighs for breasts. Breasts cook faster, so check for doneness sooner. You might also try skinless chicken for a lighter dish. For veggies, use snap peas, carrots, or asparagus instead of broccoli and bell pepper. Each swap adds a new twist to the dish.
Dietary Adjustments
To make a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with coconut aminos. This keeps the flavor while removing gluten. You can also reduce sugar by using less honey or a sugar-free syrup. This keeps the dish sweet without all the sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This honey garlic chicken pairs well with rice or quinoa. Both soak up the sauce nicely. For a fresh touch, add a side salad or steamed veggies. When serving, place the chicken on a large platter. Drizzle extra sauce on top for a beautiful presentation. Fresh herbs like parsley add color and flavor.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To store leftover One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken, place it in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. This dish can stay good for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cool it down before sealing the container. It helps prevent moisture buildup.
Reheating Tips
When reheating chicken, the oven is best. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. You can also use the microwave, but it may dry out the chicken.
Freezing Instructions
For freezing, let the leftovers cool completely first. Place them in freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice and juicy.
FAQs
How can I make One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken spicy?
You can make this dish spicy by adding red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch. If you want more heat, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon. You can also use fresh chili peppers. Dice them up and mix them in with the sauce for added flavor. Another option is to use spicy soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. This adds a kick and enhances the overall taste.
Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. However, you should thaw them first for even cooking. To thaw, place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave’s defrost option. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual. Remember, cooking times may increase slightly if you start with cold meat.
What side dishes go well with this chicken?
This chicken pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options:
– Steamed rice
– Quinoa
– Mashed potatoes
– Roasted vegetables
– A fresh garden salad
Choose any of these to create a complete and satisfying meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To check if the chicken is cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Always ensure the chicken is safe to eat.
This blog post covered how to make One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken. We discussed essential ingredients like chicken thighs, honey, garlic, and vibrant veggies. You learned step-by-step instructions from preparing the chicken to baking it in the oven.
In closing, this dish is simple and delicious. Experiment with flavors and make it your own. Enjoy a satisfying meal that brings joy to the table. Happy cooking!
