Looking for a simple, yet flavorful chicken recipe that’s easy to make and packed with savory-sweet flavors? This Honey Soy Baked Chicken might just become your new go-to. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that’s sweet, savory, and perfectly balanced, giving the chicken a rich, flavorful coating. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for the family or a meal prep for the week, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients to make the chicken taste incredible—just honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a few other pantry staples. The chicken itself is baked to tender perfection in the oven, where the honey soy glaze caramelizes and forms a sticky, golden crust that is simply irresistible. The result is chicken that’s juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. You can use this marinade for chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks, depending on your preferences. The sweet and salty glaze pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh green salad, making it a complete meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s so easy to customize—add a little ginger or chili flakes for a spicy kick, or throw in some sesame seeds for extra texture.
Baking the chicken is also a great way to save time while ensuring that it cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavor from the marinade. The oven does all the work, so you can focus on other parts of your meal or just relax while dinner is cooking. It’s the perfect dish for busy nights when you still want a flavorful meal without a lot of prep.
The honey soy glaze not only adds flavor, but it also gives the chicken a beautiful glossy finish, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with your family, this dish is sure to impress. It’s simple enough for a casual meal but elegant enough for a special occasion.
If you love sweet and savory dishes, this recipe is definitely for you. The honey soy glaze complements the natural flavor of the chicken perfectly, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s both comforting and exciting. This recipe is bound to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.
Servings: 4 servings
Time:
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
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4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
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1/4 cup honey
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1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
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Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag or cover the dish. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
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Bake the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Garnish and serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips:
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For crispy skin: If you’re using chicken with skin, you can place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking to get a crispy, golden finish.
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Marinate longer for extra flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor.
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Serve with sides: This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Honey Soy Baked Chicken is incredibly flavorful, easy to make, and requires minimal ingredients. The sweet and savory glaze is the perfect balance of flavors, and the baked chicken comes out juicy and tender every time. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your meal planning.
Summary:
With just a handful of ingredients, this Honey Soy Baked Chicken delivers big flavors. The savory-sweet glaze gives the chicken a golden, caramelized coating that’s sure to impress. It’s easy to prepare, quick to bake, and a perfect dish for any night of the week.
