Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are a true culinary delight that combines savory flavors with an easy cooking process. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The succulent chicken thighs are coated in a delightful soy garlic sauce, making them a sure hit for family meals or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe makes dinner a breeze.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one pan reduces cleanup time, letting you enjoy your meal sooner.
• Flavor Explosion: The umami-packed soy garlic sauce elevates the chicken, creating a dish bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or serve over rice for a complete meal tailored to your taste.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep; everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Plate
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Provides ample space for frying the chicken evenly and helps in mixing the sauce directly after.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the sauce ingredients effectively without spilling.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

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 1/2 cup of chicken stock (or substitute with water and chicken bouillon), 3 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dark soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Dry the boneless skinless chicken thighs with paper towels to ensure they fry nicely.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

On a large plate, mix together potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Lightly coat both sides of each chicken thigh with this mixture.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat enough neutral oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to cover the bottom. Once hot, add the coated chicken thighs and fry until golden brown on both sides—approximately 7 minutes per side.

Step 5: Cook the Garlic Mixture

Remove the fried chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate. In the same pan, add minced garlic, the white part of the green onion, and red chili flakes. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown.

Step 6: Thicken and Combine

Add your prepared sauce to the pan with sautéed garlic. Cook for about 1 minute or until it thickens slightly.

Step 7: Finish Cooking

Return the fried chicken to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes until fully cooked through and well-coated with glossy sauce.

Step 8: Serve

Serve these delicious Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs with your favorite steamed rice and vegetables. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, the options are endless! This dish pairs beautifully with various sides that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Serve fluffy steamed rice as a base to soak up the delicious sauce. Jasmine or basmati rice works wonderfully for this dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Create a fresh salad by placing chicken thighs over mixed greens. Add sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and freshness.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with avocado slices and salsa for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with a colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for added crunch and nutrients.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Combine chopped chicken with quinoa or brown rice, topped with avocado, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of soy sauce for a wholesome grain bowl.

How to Perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Achieving the perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish every time.

• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a more intense flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
• Monitor oil temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding chicken; this helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain even cooking and crispiness.
• Let the sauce thicken: Allow the sauce to cook long enough to develop its flavors and glossy texture.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy when served.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

To complement your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, consider these delectable side dishes that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs well with savory chicken.

2. Roasted Broccoli
   Crisp-tender roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil adds a healthy crunch to your plate.

3. Fried Rice
   A classic option, fried rice can be customized with veggies like peas and carrots for extra flavor.

4. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a nice contrast to the rich chicken.

5. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs and spices makes for a nutritious side that complements the dish’s Asian-inspired flavors.

6. Sautéed Bok Choy
   Lightly sautéed bok choy adds an Asian flair while providing vitamins and minerals without overpowering the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Not drying the chicken: Failing to dry your chicken thighs can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy crust. Use paper towels to pat them dry before coating.
• Skipping the marinade time: Rushing the flavoring process by not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.
• Overcrowding the pan: Adding too many chicken thighs at once can lower the pan’s temperature, causing steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary for a crispy finish.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap soy sauce or old garlic can diminish the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh ingredients for the best taste.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking chicken thighs for too long can make them tough and dry. Always monitor doneness with a meat thermometer or by cutting into one piece.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs:

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?

You can certainly use bone-in thighs; just adjust cooking time accordingly, as they may take longer to cook through.

What sides pair well with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

This dish goes great with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad for a balanced meal.

How do I customize the sauce?

Feel free to add more spices or switch out honey for maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetness level.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are perfect for meal prep as they store well and reheat nicely throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served with various sides and customized with different sauces or veggies. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of flavors that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into an impressive dish. This recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a savory soy garlic sauce, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or family meals. The one-pan cooking method simplifies the process, ensuring minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

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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 garlic (minced)
• 2 stalks green onion (green and white parts separated)
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (sub: water & chicken bouillon)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• Green onion (green part) for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce by mixing chicken stock, honey, rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Pat dry the chicken thighs and coat them in a mixture of potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, add oil and fry the coated chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 7 minutes per side).
4. Remove chicken and sauté minced garlic with the white parts of green onion and red chili flakes until fragrant.
5. Add the prepared sauce to the pan and cook until slightly thickened.
6. Return chicken to the pan and cook for an additional 5 minutes to combine flavors.
7. Serve garnished with green onions and sesame seeds alongside steamed rice or vegetables.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg