Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice
If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice is the perfect dish to try. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic glaze, paired with fluffy jasmine rice tossed with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions. It’s a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that makes every bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish will impress without demanding hours in the kitchen.
Top Reasons to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice
- Flavor-packed: The combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger creates a tantalizing sauce that elevates simple chicken thighs.
- Easy to prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly but delicious enough for seasoned cooks.
- Comfort food with a twist: The sesame rice adds a nutty, aromatic component that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory chicken.
- Versatile and satisfying: Serve it as a weeknight meal or at gatherings; it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s filling and balanced.
- Quick cooking time: From start to finish, you can have this meal ready in under 40 minutes.
What Goes In
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide tender, juicy meat that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create that glossy glaze.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings pungency and depth.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness to balance the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken with a light, healthy fat.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Offers a warm, zesty kick that complements garlic.
- Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 cup jasmine rice: Fragrant and fluffy, perfect as the base for the dish.
- 2 cups water: For cooking the rice to perfection.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds: Toasted to add nuttiness and crunch.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Freshness and color to garnish the rice.
What’s in the Gear List
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly with minimal sticking.
- Medium saucepan with lid: For perfectly cooking the jasmine rice.
- Grater: To grate the fresh ginger.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir the sauce and rice gently.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping garlic and green onions.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare the Jasmine Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat, keep it covered, and let it rest for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Step 2: Toast the Sesame Seeds
While the rice cooks, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until they become golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger. This sauce will be the star of your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice, offering sweet, savory, and aromatic notes.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Thighs
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 5 minutes until fully cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Glaze the Chicken
Reduce the heat to low and pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken thighs in the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken repeatedly as it cooks for an additional 2-3 minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat the chicken in a shiny glaze. Be careful not to burn the sauce—keep the heat low and stir gently.
Step 6: Assemble and Garnish
Plate a generous scoop of the fluffy jasmine rice, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Place the glazed chicken thighs on top or alongside the rice. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the skillet over the dish for extra flavor.
Make It Your Way
- Add a handful of steamed broccoli or snap peas to the plate for a boost of green and crunch.
- Swap jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa for a nuttier texture and extra fiber.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the chicken before serving.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Try garnishing with chopped cilantro or fresh basil for a fresh herbal twist.
Errors to Dodge
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can make them dry. Keep an eye on the internal temperature and cook just until done.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic can become bitter if overcooked. Mince it finely and add it to the sauce, cooking on low heat to avoid burning.
- Not rinsing the rice: Skipping this step can result in clumpy, sticky rice instead of fluffy grains.
- Cooking the sauce on high heat: High heat can cause the honey to burn quickly. Keep the sauce on low to medium to maintain its sweetness.
Best Ways to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. The rice can dry out if reheated directly, so adding moisture helps.
If you want to freeze the Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Quick Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative. However, they cook faster and can dry out, so watch cooking times closely and consider marinating for extra moisture.
Is it necessary to toast the sesame seeds?
Toasting sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor and adds a pleasant crunch to the rice. While optional, it’s highly recommended for the best texture and taste.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to keep the sauce gluten-free without compromising flavor.
How do I get a sticky glaze on the chicken?
The key is to cook the sauce on low heat after adding it to the chicken, allowing the honey and soy sauce to reduce and thicken. Spoon the sauce over the chicken frequently to build a glossy coating.
Desserts to Finish
- Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne — For when you want to try another hearty, flavorful chicken dish.
- Lemon Blueberry Scones — A light, fruity dessert to contrast the savory main.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse — Rich yet healthy, a perfect finish to your meal.
- Coconut Mango Pudding — Tropical and refreshing, great for a sweet treat after dinner.
Hungry for More?
If you loved these Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice, you might want to explore other delicious and comforting chicken recipes. This dish pairs well with fresh sides or steamed vegetables, but you can also dive into creamy pasta dishes, vibrant salads, or hearty grain bowls. For a cozy and cheesy option packed with flavor, check out the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne. It’s a perfect next recipe to add variety to your dinner rotation.
With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice transforms into a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and simple. The next time you want a fuss-free recipe that delivers on taste, this one’s a winner. Enjoy the sweet and savory balance, the comforting rice, and the aromatic touches that make this dish a memorable favorite.
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Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by rinsing 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
- While the rice cooks, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 3 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger to make the honey garlic sauce.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Cook chicken undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for 5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Reduce heat to low and pour the honey garlic sauce over the chicken. Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken in a glossy glaze. Be careful not to burn the sauce.
- Plate a scoop of jasmine rice, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Place the glazed chicken thighs on or alongside the rice and drizzle remaining sauce over the dish.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water to keep chicken moist.
- Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
- Toast sesame seeds to enhance their nutty flavor and add a pleasant crunch to the rice.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
