Go Back
Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, a flavorful and juicy dish, are featured in this image.

BEST Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

These Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are incredibly flavorful with perfectly crispy skin, making them a weeknight winner. The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness creates an umami-rich flavor that's easy to customize to your liking.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron preferred)
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • Resealable bag or shallow dish
  • paper towels
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  4. Add the cornstarch and whisk until smooth.
  5. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  6. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
  7. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
  8. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet.
  9. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Resist the urge to move the chicken around.
  10. Flip the chicken thighs over and pour the remaining marinade over them.
  11. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  12. For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
  13. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  14. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds and serve hot with rice, noodles, or your favorite sides.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. To thicken the sauce, whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce while simmering. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and are great in fried rice or chicken salad.