Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs

There’s something truly irresistible about Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs. Picture this: after a long day, you want something that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a bit of zing into your evening. That’s where this recipe comes into play. The blend of sweet honey and spicy sriracha creates a sauce that dances on the taste buds, making every bite a delightful experience. I stumbled upon this recipe during a quest to find the perfect weeknight meal that could bring the family together without spending hours in the kitchen. And let me tell you, the moment I took the first bite, I knew I’d struck gold.

This dish is not just about the flavors—it’s about the memories you create while cooking and sharing it with loved ones. I enjoy preparing Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs for family gatherings, where everyone gathers around the table, eagerly waiting for that first taste. The vibrant colors of the garnishes, like fresh cilantro and green onion, add an inviting touch to the presentation. Plus, this recipe is flexible; you can easily scale it up for a crowd or keep it cozy for a quiet dinner for two.

Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a relaxed weekend, Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs delivers on both flavor and convenience. The chicken thighs, with their juicy and tender meat, soak up the delicious sauce so well, making them the star of the show. Throw in a side of rice or some roasted veggies, and you have a meal that’s not just food, but an experience. Trust me; you’ll want to make this again and again!

Main Ingredients for Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs

When it comes to crafting the perfect Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs, each ingredient plays a vital role. The rich flavors of these key players come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. From the sweetness of honey to the bite of sriracha, every bite tells a story. Here are the main ingredients you’ll need:

• 1/4 cup honey: The star of the sauce, honey adds a luscious sweetness that balances the heat from the sriracha.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce: This ingredient provides depth and umami, making the sauce rich and savory.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha: A must-have for that signature heat; adjust to suit your spice tolerance.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: This oil brings a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 1 garlic clove: Finely minced, garlic adds aromatic depth to the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon finely minced ginger: Ginger introduces a warm spice that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon water: Used to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The main protein, these thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This oil is crucial for searing the chicken to achieve a golden-brown skin.
• Fresh cilantro, sliced green onion, and toasted sesame seeds: These garnishes not only add freshness but also a lovely presentation.

Each ingredient contributes its own unique flair, ensuring that your Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs are a hit at your dinner table.

Making This Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs

Cooking Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With just a few steps, you’ll create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into the cooking process:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sriracha, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add 1 tablespoon of water and continue whisking until everything is incorporated. Set the sauce aside, as this will be the magic that brings your dish to life.

2. Generously rub both sides of the chicken thighs with sriracha. This step not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful and slightly crispy skin when cooked.

3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and wait until it’s shimmering. It’s essential to get the oil hot before adding the chicken to achieve that golden brown color.

4. Once the oil is ready, add the chicken thighs, skin side up. Cook for about 5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. You should hear a satisfying sizzle; that’s the sound of deliciousness in the making!

5. Carefully flip the thighs and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the skin side is golden brown and starting to crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

6. Add the prepared sauce to the skillet and partially cover it. This will help the chicken cook evenly while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Let it cook for about 10 more minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.

7. To check doneness, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the largest thigh. It should read 165 degrees F. This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.

8. Once done, transfer the chicken thighs to serving dishes. Be sure to pour any remaining sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.

9. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds. These garnishes add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.

And there you have it! A beautifully prepared Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Expert Tips about Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs

Cooking is all about experimenting and making the dish your own. Here are some expert tips to elevate your Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain tenderness.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken thighs! Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
• Pairing: Pair Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs with jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
• Garnishing: Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh herbs and toasted sesame seeds not only enhance flavor but also add visual appeal.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of sriracha used or add it gradually until you reach your preferred heat level.
• Cooking Method: This recipe works wonderfully on the grill too! Just marinate the chicken and cook over medium heat until done.

What to Serve Alongside Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs, the options are plentiful, ensuring that you can create the perfect meal for any occasion.

• Rice: Serve over fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Vegetables: Pair with roasted or stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious side. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas work wonderfully.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Sandwiches: For a fun twist, shred the chicken and serve it in a sandwich with crunchy slaw.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, and even meal prep for busy weekdays.
• Seasonal Pairings: During warm months, fresh fruits like pineapple or mango can complement the dish beautifully.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs are a winning recipe that combines rich flavors and ease of preparation. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious weeknight dinner option that’s bound to impress. I urge you to try it out and see how it can quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful experience of cooking and sharing this meal with those you love!

Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs

The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner that will leave you craving more. Make it tonight and enjoy a delicious meal that brings everyone together!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/4 cup Honey
• 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha divided
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• 1 clove Garlic finely minced
• 1/2 teaspoon Finely Minced Ginger
• 1 tablespoon Water
• 4 pieces Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
• Fresh Cilantro, Sliced Green Onion, and Toasted Sesame Seeds for garnish

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Skillet
• Whisk

Method

 

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sriracha, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add 1 tablespoon of water and continue whisking until everything is incorporated. Set the sauce aside.
2. Generously rub both sides of the chicken thighs with sriracha.
3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and wait until it’s shimmering.
4. Add the chicken thighs, skin side up. Cook for about 5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
5. Carefully flip the thighs and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the skin side is golden brown and starting to crisp.
6. Add the prepared sauce to the skillet and partially cover it. Let it cook for about 10 more minutes until the sauce thickens and bubbles.
7. To check doneness, insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the largest thigh. It should read 165 degrees F.
8. Once done, transfer the chicken thighs to serving dishes.
9. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken thighs! Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: Pair Honey Sriracha Chicken Thighs with jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Garnishing: Don’t skip the garnishes! Fresh herbs and toasted sesame seeds enhance flavor and visual appeal.
• Adjust Spice Level: Reduce the amount of sriracha used if you’re sensitive to spice.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.