Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are 10/10 delicious and super easy to make. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. With just one pan, you can create a flavorful meal that impresses without the fuss. The combination of soy sauce and garlic creates a rich and savory glaze that clings to the chicken, making every bite delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe can be on your table in just 30 minutes.
• One-Pan Wonder: Simplify cleanup with everything cooked in one pan, saving you time and effort.
• Flavorful Sauce: The soy garlic sauce brings an irresistible taste that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this meal with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete dinner.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Plates for coating chicken
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Ideal for cooking multiple chicken thighs at once while allowing even heat distribution.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for preparing the sauce, ensuring all ingredients blend well together.
• Plates for coating chicken: Helps in evenly breading the chicken thighs for a crispy texture.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken thighs boneless skinless
• 3 tbsp potato starch
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp neutral oil for pan frying
• 8 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 2 stalks green onion (green and white parts separated)
• 1 tsp red chili flakes

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup chicken stock (sub: water & chicken bouillon)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch

For Garnish

• Green onion (green part)
• Sesame seeds

How to Make Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all the sauce ingredients in a mixing bowl. This includes:
1. 1/2 cup chicken stock (or sub with water and chicken bouillon)
2. 3 tbsp honey
3. 1 tbsp rice vinegar
4. 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
5. 1 tsp cornstarch

Mix well then set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Dry the boneless skinless chicken thighs using a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

On a large plate, mix together:
* 3 tbsp potato starch
* 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
* 1 tsp garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper

Lightly coat each chicken thigh on both sides with this mixture.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat enough neutral oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
Once hot, add the coated chicken thighs:
* Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 7 minutes per side.
* Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, add:
* Minced garlic
* White part of green onion
* Red chili flakes

Sauté for approximately three minutes until garlic is golden brown.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add your prepared sauce into the pan:
* Cook for one minute or until thickened.

Return the chicken to the pan:
* Cook for an additional five minutes until thoroughly cooked and covered with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs hot, garnished with green onion tops and sesame seeds alongside steamed rice or vegetables. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serving Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal experience. Pairing them with the right sides and garnishes enhances their flavor and presentation.

With Steamed Rice

• A classic pairing that absorbs the savory sauce, making every bite delightful.

Over Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Bright, colorful vegetables add crunch and nutrition, complementing the tender chicken.

In a Lettuce Wrap

• Wrap the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb option.

With Quinoa Salad

• Serve alongside a quinoa salad for added protein and texture, creating a hearty meal.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Toss the chicken with noodles for a satisfying dish that soaks up the soy garlic sauce.

How to Perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

To achieve perfection with your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, consider these helpful tips.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: Let the chicken marinate in the sauce ingredients for at least 30 minutes before cooking for richer taste.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: For a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer longer after adding back the chicken.
• Experiment with Spices: Customize by adding your favorite spices or herbs to the coating mix for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and balances the richness of the chicken.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting accompaniment.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette complements the soy garlic flavors beautifully.
4. Fried Rice: A classic favorite that can be easily customized with vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet and savory roasted sweet potatoes offer a delicious contrast to the dish.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers dressed in vinegar provide a light crunch that cuts through the richness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not drying the chicken: Failing to dry the chicken thighs can prevent them from getting a nice crispy exterior. Always pat your chicken dry with a paper towel before coating it.

• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many chicken pieces at once, they will steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the right temperature.

• Skipping the sauce prep: Neglecting to prepare the sauce ahead of time can lead to rushed cooking. Take a moment to mix all sauce ingredients before starting on the chicken.

• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking the chicken for too long can result in dryness. Follow the cooking times closely and check for doneness with a meat thermometer if possible.

• Using low-quality oil: Using an oil with a low smoke point can affect frying. Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Place cooled chicken thighs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; remember to label them!

Reheating Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs:

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute other cuts like drumsticks or breasts, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for extra flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Serve these delicious thighs with steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite stir-fried veggies for a balanced meal.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of red chili flakes according to your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are not only simple and quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is versatile; you can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, give this dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!