Can I bake this recipe instead of cooking in a skillet?

Yes—arrange the thighs in a baking dish, pour sauce over, and bake at 200 °C (400 °F) for 35–40 minutes. Baste halfway for a stickier glaze.

Do boneless thighs work here?

Absolutely. They cook faster—check for doneness at 20 minutes whether in the oven or skillet.

Steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or noodles are great. For comfort food lovers, pair it with Copycat Wendy’s Chili .

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the glaze’s texture.

Sticky, caramelized Sweet & Spicy Chicken Thighs made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Bold flavor, easy prep, and budget friendly.

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

2 tbsp olive oil

¼ cup honey

2 tbsp soy sauce

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)

1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional garnish: sesame seeds and chopped green onions

1. Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. In a bowl, whisk honey, soy sauce, garlic, and chili flakes.

3. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Sear thighs skin-side down 6 minutes until golden, then flip and cook 5 minutes.

4. Pour sauce over chicken. Lower heat to medium. Cook uncovered 15 minutes, basting thighs occasionally.

5. Simmer until glaze thickens and internal temp reaches 74 °C (165 °F).

6. Remove from heat. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with rice or noodles.

For oven-baked version: bake at 200 °C (400 °F) for 35–40 minutes, basting halfway.

Adjust chili flakes to your heat preference.

Reheat leftovers in a skillet to preserve glaze texture.

Keywords: sweet and spicy chicken thighs, budget chicken dinner, honey garlic chicken