Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with an easy cooking method. This recipe for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can whip up a meal that impresses everyone at the table. The tender chicken thighs coated in a glossy soy garlic sauce make this dish not only flavorful but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and honey creates a deliciously rich sauce that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Pair it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory taste of these chicken thighs.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your culinary adventure, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Plate for coating chicken
• Wooden spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Provides enough space to cook all the chicken thighs evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining sauce ingredients and preparing the flour mixture.
• Plate for coating chicken: Keeps the breading process mess-free by providing a designated area for coating.

Ingredients

For 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 Sauce

• 1/2 cup chicken stock (substitute 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

How to Make Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl:
1. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken stock (or substitute with water and chicken bouillon).
2. Add 3 tablespoons of honey.
3. Mix in 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.
4. Stir well until fully combined and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Dry the boneless skinless chicken thighs using paper towels. This helps achieve a crispier finish.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thighs

On a large plate:
1. Mix together 3 tablespoons of potato starch, 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
2. Lightly coat both sides of each chicken thigh with the mixture.

Step 4: Pan Fry the Chicken

In your large frying pan:
1. Heat enough neutral oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom.
2. Once hot, add the coated chicken thighs.
3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 7 minutes per side.

Step 5: Saute Aromatics

Remove the fried chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan:
1. Add minced garlic, white parts of green onion, and red chili flakes.
2. Sauté for about 3 minutes until garlic turns golden brown.

Step 6: Add Sauce & Cook Chicken

Pour in your prepared sauce:
1. Cook for about 1 minute or until it thickens slightly.
2. Return the fried chicken back to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until fully cooked through and coated with glaze.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions (green parts) and sesame seeds before serving with steamed rice or your favorite veggies! Enjoy your delicious Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs!

How to Serve Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer a simple plate or a more elaborate meal, there are several serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

With Steamed Rice

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The fragrant jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the savory sauce of the chicken.
• Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice adds nutty flavors and complements the dish well.

As A Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap pieces of chicken with fresh veggies for a crunchy bite.
• Tortilla Wraps: Fill tortillas with chicken and add avocado and salsa for a delightful twist.

Over Noodles

• Rice Noodles: Serve the chicken over rice noodles, drizzled with extra sauce for a satisfying meal.
• Udon Noodles: Thick udon noodles absorb the flavors beautifully, making each bite delicious.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Veggies: Pair with sautéed bell peppers and broccoli to add color and nutrition.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots and zucchini create a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

How to Perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Achieving the perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use fresh garlic: Fresh garlic gives a robust flavor compared to powdered garlic.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary, allowing even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of honey based on your taste preference for a sweeter or more balanced sauce.
• Let it rest: Allow chicken thighs to rest after cooking; this keeps them juicy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other seasonings like ginger or sesame oil for extra flavor.
• Garnish generously: Top your dish with green onions and sesame seeds just before serving for added texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can enhance your meal. Here are some perfect options that complement its flavors well.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the chicken.
2. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and balance.
3. Cucumber Salad: This light salad brings a cool contrast, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with herbs is nutritious and filling.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned simply enhances health benefits while keeping it light.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup completes an Asian-inspired dining experience beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry, tough meat. Keep an eye on cooking times, and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping the seasoning step can result in bland chicken. Be sure to coat the chicken thighs evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for maximum flavor.
• Using too high of heat: Cooking on high heat may burn the outside before cooking through. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Skipping the sauce thickening step: Not allowing the sauce to thicken can lead to a watery dish. Make sure to cook the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon for the best consistency.
• Improper storage: Storing leftovers in the wrong container can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers for optimal freshness in both refrigerator and freezer.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• To freeze, place chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• For best quality, label containers with date and contents.

Reheating Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover, heating for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to marinate Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

You don’t need to marinate these thighs as they are flavorful enough from the coating and sauce. However, if you wish to enhance flavor further, marinating for 30 minutes will do wonders.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly since bone-in pieces take longer to cook through.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

These delicious thighs go well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple salad. You can customize based on your preferences!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free as well.

How do I store leftovers from Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste preferences. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

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Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

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Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs deliver a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors that will delight your taste buds. This one-pan wonder is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions, requiring minimal effort while still impressing your family and friends. The tender chicken thighs are coated in a rich soy garlic sauce, creating a visually appealing dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite veggies for a wholesome meal everyone will love.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp potato starch
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 8 cloves minced garlic
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce by mixing chicken stock, honey, rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl; set aside.
2. Dry chicken thighs with paper towels and coat them with a mixture of potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat; fry the coated chicken until golden brown on both sides.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan; sauté minced garlic, green onion whites, and red chili flakes until fragrant.
5. Add the prepared sauce to the pan; let it thicken slightly before returning the chicken to coat thoroughly.
6. Serve garnished with green onion greens and sesame seeds alongside rice or vegetables.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.