You know those nights when you just want something easy, delicious, and a little different from the usual? That’s where these Tangy-Glazed Chicken Thighs come in. They’ve got the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and just the right amount of tanginess to keep things interesting. And the best part? You don’t need a ton of ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make them.
I first made this recipe when I was craving something bold but didn’t want to babysit a complicated dish. A little experimenting with my favorite flavors—honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar—turned into this ridiculously good glaze. One bite, and I knew this one was a keeper. It’s sticky, juicy, and packed with flavor that makes you want to lick your fingers. (No judgment here!)
Why People Will Love It
This recipe is all about balance—sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that come together in the most satisfying way. Plus, it’s super versatile. Serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or even on a sandwich. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy, from picky eaters to food lovers who appreciate bold flavors.
Health Benefits
Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, keeping you full and energized. They also have a little more healthy fat than chicken breasts, which means more flavor and satisfaction. The glaze uses honey instead of processed sugar, giving a natural sweetness without going overboard. Garlic and vinegar both have great health perks, too—garlic is known for boosting immunity, and vinegar helps with digestion.
When to Make It
This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something fast but flavorful. It’s also great for casual get-togethers—friends will love the sticky, finger-licking goodness. If you’re meal prepping, these chicken thighs reheat beautifully, so they’re great for lunches throughout the week.
So, if you’re in the mood for something bold, tasty, and easy to make, give these Tangy-Glazed Chicken Thighs a try. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll be hooked!
Table of Contents : Glazed Chicken Thighs
Chef’s Notes: Glazed Chicken Thighs
- For an extra glossy finish, brush additional glaze over the chicken just before serving.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice and crisp vegetables like snow peas or broccoli.
- To add more depth, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds as a finishing touch.
- For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the marinade.
Tangy Glazed Chicken Thighs
4
servings10
minutes35
minutes500
kcal10
minutes55
minutesExperience the delightful flavors of Tangy Glazed Chicken Thighs, a perfect blend of sweet and savory notes that come together in a luscious sauce. This quick and easy weeknight favorite is sure to impress with its rich, caramelized glaze and tender, juicy chicken. Ideal for busy schedules, it pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables and rice, making dinner both delicious and satisfying. Elevate your home cooking with this mouthwatering recipe that promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
- Marinade Mixture
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup soy seasoning sauce
1 cup water
1/4 cup finely chopped garlic
1/4 cup freshly grated ginger
- Chicken
5 pounds chicken thighs with bone and skin
- Garnish
1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Alternative Ingredients:
Granulated Sugar: Replace with brown sugar or honey for a different sweetness profile.
Soy Sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Fresh Ginger: Substitute with ginger paste.
Bone-In Chicken Thighs: Can be replaced with boneless thighs if preferred.
Directions
- Prepare Ingredients – Start by gathering all necessary components for your Tangy Glazed Chicken. Ensure you have measured out the sugar, soy sauce, water, garlic, ginger, and have your chicken thighs ready. Preparing ingredients upfront makes the cooking process smoother.
- Combine Marinade – In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, blend together the granulated sugar, soy sauce, and water. Stir consistently until the sugar fully dissolves, forming a sweet base for your glaze. Incorporate the minced garlic and grated ginger into the mixture, enhancing the aroma and depth of flavor.
- Cook Chicken Thighs – Add the bone-in chicken thighs to the pot, arranging them evenly in the marinade. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Using tongs, turn the chicken every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and glazing. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens into a rich, brown glaze and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This should take about 35 minutes.
- Rest and Garnish – Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and allow the chicken to cool in the sauce for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld together. Transfer the glazed chicken thighs to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
Notes
- For an extra glossy finish, brush additional glaze over the chicken just before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice and crisp vegetables like snow peas or broccoli. To add more depth, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds as a finishing touch. For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the marinade.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 500kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 1500mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQs: Glazy Chicken Thighs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for bone-in. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless thighs cook a bit faster.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before using.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute for soy sauce, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken with the glaze. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What other sides go well with Tangy Glazed Chicken Thighs?
Besides steamed rice and vegetables like snow peas, this dish also pairs well with stir-fried noodles, mashed potatoes, or even a simple cucumber salad.
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