Why Make This Recipe

Sticky Honey Soy Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates an irresistible glaze that makes chicken juicy and flavorful. Plus, baking means less mess and fuss compared to frying.

How to Make Sticky Honey Soy Chicken

Ingredients

1.2kg / 2.4lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs OR drumsticks (5 – 6 pieces) (Note 1)
1 red onion, peeled and cut into wedges
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp honey
3 tbsp soy sauce (Note 2)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or ordinary white vinegar)
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp black pepper
Sesame seeds
Fresh coriander/cilantro leaves (or other green herbs like green onion, parsley, chives)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F (180°C fan).
Line Pan: Line a baking dish with foil, then with baking paper. Make sure the dish is the right size for the chicken – not too spaced apart or too snug (Note 3).
Make Glaze: In a bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
Prepare Chicken: Place the onion wedges at the bottom of the baking dish. Then, arrange the chicken skin side down.
Pour Glaze: Pour the glaze over the chicken and onions.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. After 25 minutes, turn the chicken over and continue to bake for another 25 to 35 minutes. The chicken is done when it’s browned and the glaze is sticky. If the glaze isn’t syrupy yet, move the chicken to a plate and put the pan back in the oven for a few minutes to reduce.
Coat Chicken: Turn the chicken in the glaze and spoon more glaze over the pieces.
Serve: Serve your sticky honey soy chicken with rice and steamed greens, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro/coriander.

How to Serve Sticky Honey Soy Chicken

Sticky Honey Soy Chicken is best served warm over a bed of fluffy rice. Add some steamed greens on the side for a balanced meal. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh herbs to enhance the flavors.

How to Store Sticky Honey Soy Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Sticky Honey Soy Chicken

Make sure not to overcrowd the chicken in the baking dish. This ensures even cooking and helps the glaze thicken perfectly.
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the glaze for a few hours before baking.
Keep an eye on the chicken in the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.

Variation

If you want a bit more heat, consider adding some chili flakes to the glaze or serving the chicken with a side of spicy dipping sauce. You can also swap out the chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but note that cooking times may vary.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they might dry out faster. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. What can I serve with Sticky Honey Soy Chicken?
It’s delicious with steamed rice, quinoa, or even pasta. Pair it with vegetables like greens or a fresh salad.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and glaze ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.