Introduction
Sticky Honey Soy Baked Chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, infusing the chicken with irresistible flavors. This dish is easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
chicken thighs – 1 kg
honey – 1/2 cup
soy sauce – 1/3 cup
garlic – 4 cloves, minced
ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
spring onions – for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Step 5: Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish
Transfer the marinated chicken to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pour any remaining marinade over the top.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness
For extra crispy skin, turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with additional sauce if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Cuts
You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for more flavor, or boneless chicken for a quicker cooking time.
Note 2: Marinating Time
The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavors will be, but even a short marination will result in tasty chicken.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. Use a mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger to create a rich marinade that enhances the taste of the chicken.
Baking
Baking the chicken at a high temperature allows for even cooking and ensures the skin becomes crispy while the meat stays juicy. The use of a baking dish allows the marinade to caramelize.
Glazing
Applying a glaze during the baking process helps to develop a sticky coating on the chicken. This can be done by brushing the chicken with the reserved marinade periodically for extra flavor.
Resting
Allowing the chicken to rest after baking is essential for maintaining its juiciness. This step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat for a more tender bite.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs might take a bit longer to cook thoroughly.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.
Is there a substitute for honey in the marinade?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or brown sugar, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely, the marinade can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before use.
What can I serve with sticky honey soy baked chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
This Sticky Honey Soy Baked Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that is sure to please any palate. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a tantalizing glaze that caramelizes beautifully during baking, resulting in tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful crust. It’s an easy dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Try swapping out chicken for shrimp in a honey garlic sauce for a quick and appetizing seafood alternative.
Sesame Soy Glazed Tofu
For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu marinated in a similar honey soy glaze, then baked until crisp.
Sticky Honey Soy Roasted Vegetables
Combine your favorite vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, with a honey soy marinade and roast them for a delicious side dish.
Honey Soy Meatballs
Use the honey soy sauce as a glaze for meatballs made from minced beef or chicken for a tasty appetizer or main dish.
Honey Soy Chicken Thighs with Rice
Serve the baked chicken thighs over a bed of jasmine rice, drizzled with the leftover sauce for a complete meal.
Stir-Fried Chicken and Broccoli
Use the honey soy sauce in a quick stir-fry with chicken and broccoli for a nutritious and flavorful dinner option.