Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ketchup, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk thoroughly until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
Step 4: Apply the Glaze
Pour the prepared glaze over the chicken, reducing the heat to medium-low. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce, turning the chicken occasionally to coat all sides. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes until the sauce has thickened into a rich glaze and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Garnish and Present
Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, spooning any remaining glaze over the top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier than breasts during the glazing process.
- For thicker glaze: Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and add to simmering sauce.
- Pat chicken dry: Ensures proper browning and caramelization.
- Watch the glaze: Sugar content means it can burn quickly if heat is too high.
- Marinate for more flavor: Marinate chicken in a portion of the glaze for 2-4 hours before cooking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Grilled / Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Asian-Inspired, Contemporary Asian
- Diet: Dairy-Free
