Are you tired of the same old chicken breast routine? Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner that even the pickiest eaters will devour? Then look no further! Chicken thighs are a game-changer for busy weeknights. They're incredibly flavorful, juicy, and forgiving, even for beginner cooks. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal and is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Let's dive into these easy and healthy recipes that make homemade cooking a breeze!
Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the savory sweetness of honey garlic with tender, juicy chicken. It’s a simple, healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's one of the best recipes for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons water (for mixing with cornstarch)
- Sesame seeds and green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or quinoa, for serving
Instructions:
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Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
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Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
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Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the chicken. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
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Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (if using) and serve hot over rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking chicken in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey, garlic, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs: Substitute lemon juice for the rice vinegar and add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Spicy Chicken Thighs: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Teriyaki Chicken Thighs: Use teriyaki sauce instead of honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe for delicious and healthy chicken thighs offers a versatile foundation for creating many quick dinner ideas perfect for the whole family. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and making this a regular part of your meal rotation. Remember to adapt the recipe according to your family’s preferences, and most importantly, have fun cooking!