Sticky Ginger Garlic Chicken Thighs
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever get that craving for takeout, but want something healthier and quicker? I know I do. These Sticky Ginger Garlic Chicken Thighs are the answer.
Oh my gosh, the flavor ! They're sweet, savoury, and pack a ginger garlic punch.
Brief Overview
This recipe is inspired by East Asian flavours. Think delicious Asian chicken recipes ! It's easier than you might think.
We're talking about 40 minutes from start to finish, and it'll feed about 4 hungry folks. Honestly, even your cookware won't be mad at you, just a skillet is needed.
Main Benefits
Chicken thighs are a fantastic source of protein, you know? These one pan chicken thighs are perfect for a weeknight dinners when you're short on time.
What makes this recipe special? It tastes like takeout, but better and you know exactly what's in it.
Why Chicken Thighs?
Some people are all about chicken breast , but I'm telling you, chicken thighs are where it's at. They're more forgiving than chicken breast , and stay juicy, even if you accidentally overcook them a tad.
Don't be scared off!. Plus, did you know that chicken thighs are often cheaper than chicken breasts? Win-win, right?
That Amazing Ginger Garlic Sauce
The heart of this recipe is that ginger garlic sauce . It's the perfect blend of sweet, savoury, and spicy. I use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt in check.
Honey adds sweetness, rice vinegar gives it a tang, and fresh ginger and garlic provide that classic Asian flavour. A little cornstarch helps thicken it up to a lovely, sticky glaze.
Gathering Your Ingredients
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need. Grab about 600g of boneless, skinless chicken thighs . Get ready with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
For the marinades you'll need soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, fresh ginger, garlic, cornstarch, water, red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy), and sesame oil.
That's it!
Ingredients & Equipment For The Best Sticky Chicken Thighs Ever!
So, you wanna ditch the takeout and whip up some killer Asian chicken recipes , huh? Trust me, this Sticky Ginger Garlic Sauce number is gonna blow your mind.
We're talking seriously delicious one pan chicken thighs that are way easier than you think.
Main Ingredients: The Deets
Let's get down to brass tacks with the ingredients. These measurements are crucial.
- Chicken : 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 600g / 1.3 lbs ). Go for thighs that look plump and pink, you know? Not pale or anything.
- Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of your favourite vegetable oil for searing.
- Salt & Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) each. Freshly ground pepper gives it that extra oomph .
Sauce Magic: Seasoning Notes
Now for the sauce this is where the magic happens. It's a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for those quick weeknight dinners .
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup (60 ml). I prefer low sodium, so it doesn't overpower the other flavours.
- Honey: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). Local honey adds a special something, if you've got it.
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (30 ml). This gives it that Asian tang. Apple cider vinegar works in a pinch.
- Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon (15 ml). Fresh is best! Peel it and mince it finely.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Gotta have that pungent goodness!
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). This thickens the sauce like a charm.
- Water: 1/4 cup (60 ml). Just to loosen things up.
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml). For a little kick! Optional, of course.
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (5 ml). Adds that nutty aroma.
Honestly, I've even used chicken breast when I’m out of chicken thighs , and it's still amazing. Just adjust the cooking time. Feel free to experiment with different marinades later on.
Equipment: What You Really Need
You don't need fancy gadgets for this, promise.
- Large Skillet: Cast iron or non-stick is ideal. That's where your one pan chicken thighs dreams will come true.
- Small Bowl: For mixing the sauce.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: No need to guess!
- Chef's Knife: For chopping. A good knife makes life so much easier.
- Cutting Board: For, well, cutting!
My grandma used to say, "Good food starts with good tools." I'm not sure that's always true, but it definitely helps.
Getting the right cookware is always important. Remember, always verify the internal temperature of the chicken thighs .
Cooking Method: Sticky Ginger Garlic Chicken Thighs
Oh my gosh, are you ready for some seriously delicious chicken thighs ? Honestly, this recipe is a total game changer.
Forget ordering takeout; this Asian chicken recipes is quicker, healthier, and way more flavorful. We’re talking sticky, sweet, savory goodness, all wrapped around juicy chicken thighs .
It's easily one of my favourite easy chicken recipes . Let's get started.
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Power-Up
First, get your mise en place sorted. This is super important. It literally translates to "everything in its place" in french, and it will save you so much time.
Chop your ginger and garlic, measure out your soy sauce and honey, and have everything ready to go. Trust me, it's a lifesaver during weeknight dinners when you’re rushing.
Also, quick note: Always wash your hands before prepping raw chicken thighs , you know, for safety and all that.
step-by-step: From "Raw Chicken" to "Food Heaven"
Okay, now the fun begins!
- Pat those chicken thighs dry and season them with salt and pepper.
- Whisk together your soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, cornstarch, water, red pepper flakes, and sesame oil.
- Heat vegetable oil in your cookware of choice (a large skillet is ideal). Sear the chicken thighs for 4- 5 minutes per side.
- Pour that glorious ginger garlic sauce over the chicken thighs .
- Simmer for 10- 15 minutes , until the sauce thickens and the internal temperature reaches 165° F/ 74° C . Serve immediately!
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Chicken Game
Want to really nail this? Make sure you dry your chicken thighs before searing; it will give you a lovely golden brown crust.
Don't over crowd the pan, either. It will steam instead of sear! And if you are not using one pan chicken thighs , adjust the cooking time accordingly.
One thing I always do is make extra marinades for next time. It's just like having a little flavour bomb ready to explode in your mouth.
As for common mistakes, keep an eye on the sauce; it can burn easily. Speaking of, you can totally make the sauce ahead of time, which is great for meal prepping.
Seriously, give these Sticky Ginger Garlic Chicken Thighs a go. You won't regret it!
Recipe Notes: Nailing Those Chicken Thighs
Alright, let's chat about some extra bits and bobs to make your one pan chicken thighs experience top-notch. I’ve made this recipe a gazillion times, and these are the things I’ve learned.
Honestly, these tips can take your Asian chicken recipes game to the next level.
Serving Suggestions: Dress It Up!
How you plate this dish makes all the difference. I like to serve my chicken thighs over fluffy rice to soak up that delicious ginger garlic sauce .
You know, presentation matters! Add some steamed broccoli or stir fried veggies on the side. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped green onions elevates the look.
For drinks, a crisp white wine or a light beer pairs really well. It's almost like you ordered takeout.
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries! Store those chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make sure they're cooled down first. For reheating, a quick zap in the microwave works. But, honestly, reheating them in a pan with a splash of water makes them even better.
I wouldn’t recommend freezing. The sauce can get a bit weird.
Variations: Spice It Up or Tone It Down
Want to play around with the recipe? Of course, you can! For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinades .
For a low-carb version, swap honey for a sugar-free sweetener. If you are out of chicken thighs , use chicken breast .
Trust me, either way is going to be delicious.
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Let's talk numbers. Each serving rocks around 350 calories. You also get about 30g of protein, 15g of fat, and 20g of carbs.
It's a solid meal. Remember, this is just an estimate.
These easy chicken recipes are such a win for weeknight dinners . Those ginger garlic sauce marinated chicken thighs are just fantastic! The key is to check the internal temperature of the chicken to 165° F/ 74° C degrees.
Don't overthink it. Cooking should be fun! Grab your favorite cookware and get started. I know you can nail this recipe. Seriously, these chicken thighs are going to be amazing. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs will add even more flavor and richness. You'll likely need to increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure they're cooked through. Think of it as upgrading to a vintage vinyl version of your favorite song - richer and more authentic!
Help! My sauce is too thick/thin. How can I fix it?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If the sauce is too thick, simply add a tablespoon or two of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken up.
A little cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) can also do the trick, just like Mary Berry thickening a custard!
How do I store leftover Sticky Ginger Garlic chicken thighs? And how long will they last?
Leftovers are your friend! Store the chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through; adding a splash of water can help keep them moist.
Think of it as a delicious "ready meal" for another night - but way better than what you'd find at Tesco's!
Are chicken thighs a healthy option? What are the nutritional benefits?
Chicken thighs are a great source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc. While they are higher in fat than chicken breasts, this also contributes to their delicious flavor and helps keep them moist during cooking.
Enjoy them as part of a balanced diet, mindful of portion sizes and added sodium from the sauce.
Can I bake these Sticky Ginger Garlic chicken thighs instead of pan-frying them?
Yes, you can definitely bake these! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, pour the sauce over them, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Basting them with the sauce halfway through will keep them nice and glossy, like glazing a Christmas ham!
What can I serve with these Sticky Ginger Garlic Chicken Thighs to make a complete meal?
These chicken thighs pair perfectly with so many dishes! Steamed rice or quinoa are classic choices. For a lighter option, serve them with stir fried vegetables like broccoli or bok choy, or a refreshing Asian slaw. Serve with a nice, cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light bodied beer, like a Pilsner.
Sticky Ginger Garlic Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 0g |
