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–+ servings
Honey Sesame Chicken Thighs

Honey Sesame Chicken Thighs: Your New Easy Weeknight Favorite

These Honey Sesame Chicken Thighs are quick to prepare and offer a healthier alternative to take-out with their crispy texture and savory glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 thighs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Honey Substitute with maple syrup for a vegan version
  • 1/4 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free option
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Regular olive oil can be used in a pinch
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar can be a healthier alternative
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced) Fresh garlic is recommended
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds Can be omitted or replaced with sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 cup Water
For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Bone-in thighs can also work but require a longer cooking time
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on the saltiness of the soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Can be used alone if fresh is not available
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Smoked paprika can impart a different taste profile
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch Arrowroot powder can be used as a gluten-free alternative

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Shallow dish
  • spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine honey, low sodium soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame seeds, and water. Stir well to combine and let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until thickens.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. In a shallow dish, add cornstarch and coat each chicken thigh on all sides. Shake off any excess cornstarch.
  4. Heat about 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs smooth-side down for about 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Pour the thickened honey sesame sauce over the chicken thighs in the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, spooning the glaze over the chicken.
  6. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving warm, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow the sauce to simmer gently until thickened to enhance its flavor. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

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