This recipe for sticky Korean chicken thighs features tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful sweet and savory glaze. The combination of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil creates a delicious marinade that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
It’s a straightforward dish that can be prepared quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Flavorful Marinade for Chicken Thighs
The key to achieving the perfect sticky Korean chicken thighs lies in the marinade.
A blend of soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger creates a mouthwatering glaze that infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
This marinade not only adds depth but also helps in caramelizing the chicken during cooking, resulting in a beautifully glossy finish.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be added for an extra kick.
Marinating Process
To ensure the chicken thighs absorb all the flavors, marinating is essential.
Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Refrigerating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld, but for an even richer taste, marinating for up to four hours is recommended.
Cooking Techniques
Once marinated, the chicken can be cooked using either baking or grilling methods.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with foil or directly on the grill.
Cooking time typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the method chosen.
Basting the chicken with the reserved marinade during cooking enhances the glaze and keeps the meat juicy.
Serving Suggestions
After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
This helps retain its juices and ensures every bite is tender.
Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and added texture.
Pair the chicken with fluffy white rice and vibrant steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that is visually appealing and satisfying.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish not only pleases the palate but also offers nutritional benefits.
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, with a good balance of protein and healthy fats.
The chicken thighs provide a hearty source of protein, while the accompanying vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
Enjoying this meal can be a delightful way to incorporate diverse flavors into your diet while keeping it nutritious.
Final Touches
To enhance the dining experience, consider adding a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad.
The contrast of flavors and textures can elevate the meal further.
Sticky Korean chicken thighs not only serve as a main dish but also bring a taste of Korean cuisine to your table, making it a perfect choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Easy Sticky Korean Chicken Thighs
These chicken thighs are marinated in a rich sauce and then baked or grilled to perfection. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side up on a baking sheet lined with foil or on the grill. Reserve the marinade for basting. Bake for 30-35 minutes or grill for about 25 minutes, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy with steamed rice or vegetables.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g