Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe highlights the savory combination of soy and garlic, making it a standout choice for any occasion. With just one pan required, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to savor every bite without the hassle!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in a single pan.
• Flavorful Sauce: The soy-garlic sauce brings out the best in chicken thighs, creating a mouth-watering glaze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious flavors and tender chicken.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Plate for coating chicken
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Provides ample space for frying the chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining sauce ingredients smoothly before adding them to the pan.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for ingredients, which is crucial for 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. Use:
1. 1/2 cup of chicken stock (or water with chicken bouillon).
2. 3 tablespoons of honey.
3. 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar.
4. 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce.
5. 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.

Mix well and 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 tablespoons of potato starch,
* 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour,
* 1 teaspoon of garlic powder,
* 1/2 teaspoon of salt,
* 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

Lightly coat both sides of each chicken thigh in this mixture.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

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

Step 5: Cook Aromatics

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

Sauté for about 3 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Combine

Pour in the pre-prepared sauce into the pan:
1. Cook for about 1 minute or until thickened.
2. Return the fried chicken back to the pan.
3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until fully cooked and glazed with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs with your favorite veggies and steamed rice for a complete meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serving Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some tasty ideas to enhance your serving options.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice pairs perfectly with the glossy soy garlic sauce, soaking up all the flavors.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast and added nutrients.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Complement the dish with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a vibrant plate.

In a Wrap

• Use tortillas or lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with chicken, veggies, and additional sauce for a fun finger food option.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Combine the chicken with quinoa or farro, adding avocado and cherry tomatoes for a hearty grain bowl.

How to Perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

To achieve perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Boneless Thighs: Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal as they cook evenly and remain tender.

• Dry Before Coating: Patting the chicken dry helps the coating stick better, resulting in a crispier finish.

• Monitor Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. This allows for proper browning on each piece.

• Let Sauce Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens before adding back the chicken for maximum flavor absorption.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can enhance your meal’s enjoyment. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli – A simple and nutritious side that adds a pop of color while balancing the savory flavors of the chicken.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich sauce beautifully.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame seeds offers a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Fried Rice – Flavored fried rice with vegetables makes for a fulfilling addition that aligns with Asian-inspired flavors.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs nicely with the salty soy garlic taste.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad tossed with herbs and lemon provides freshness and texture alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the chicken thighs can cause excess moisture, preventing them from browning properly. Always pat your chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
• Incorrect Sauce Proportions: Using too much or too little of any sauce ingredient can throw off the flavor balance. Measure ingredients carefully for a well-rounded taste.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many chicken thighs in the pan at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it tough and dry. Keep an eye on the cooking time and check for doneness based on internal temperature.
• Not Letting the Sauce Thicken: Skipping the step of allowing the sauce to thicken means missing out on that delicious glaze. Be patient and let it bubble for a minute or two.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Forgetting to add garnishes like green onion and sesame seeds can lead to a less visually appealing dish. Don’t skip this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and sauté chicken until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, you may have some questions. Here are answers to common queries.

How do I make Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs spicier?

You can add more red chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies while cooking for extra heat.

Can I use skin-on chicken thighs?

Yes, skin-on thighs will yield a crispier texture but may require slightly longer cooking time.

What should I serve with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

These chicken thighs pair well with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I substitute other sauces?

Certainly! You can experiment with teriyaki sauce or sweet chili sauce for different flavors.

How do I store leftovers of Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are not only simple and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Enjoy trying this delightful dish that is sure to become a family favorite!

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Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savor the rich flavors of Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, a dish that combines tender chicken with a savory soy-garlic glaze. This quick and simple recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With only one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal. Serve it alongside steamed rice or vibrant vegetables for a complete dinner that delights the whole family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 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 minced garlic
• 2 stalks green onion (green and white parts separated)
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (or water and chicken bouillon)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• Green onion and sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken stock, honey, rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch; mix well and set aside.
2. Pat chicken thighs dry, then coat both sides in a mixture of potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large frying pan, heat neutral oil over medium-high heat. Fry chicken thighs for about 7 minutes per side until golden brown; remove from pan.
4. Sauté minced garlic, white parts of green onion, and chili flakes in the same pan until garlic is golden.
5. Add the sauce mixture to the pan; cook until thickened before returning the chicken to coat in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg