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Sticky Sesame Chicken Thighs - Sweet, Savory, and Weeknight Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken thighs: 2 pounds; boneless, skinless are easiest. Bone-in works with a longer cook time.
  • Soy sauce: 1/3 cup; use low-sodium if you prefer less salt.
  • Honey: 1/4 cup; for that signature sticky glaze.
  • Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon; deepens sweetness and helps caramelization.
  • Rice vinegar: 2 tablespoons; adds brightness.
  • Toasted sesame oil: 1 tablespoon; rich, nutty flavor.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced; the savory backbone.
  • Fresh ginger: 1 tablespoon, finely grated; adds warmth and zing.
  • Chili-garlic sauce or sriracha: 1 to 2 teaspoons; adjust for heat.
  • Cornstarch: 2 teaspoons; for thickening the sauce.
  • Water: 1/3 cup; to balance salt and help the glaze reduce.
  • Neutral oil: 1 to 2 tablespoons; for searing (canola, avocado, or grapeseed).
  • Sesame seeds: 1 to 2 tablespoons; for garnish and crunch.
  • Green onions: 2 to 3, thinly sliced; for freshness.
  • Optional add-ins: Steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers; cooked rice or noodles for serving.

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture so you get a solid sear. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
  2. Make the sauce. In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, chili-garlic sauce, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Sear the thighs. Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add oil. Sear chicken 4 to 5 minutes per side until browned. If using bone-in, you may need an extra minute per side.
  4. Lower the heat. Reduce to medium. If the pan is very greasy, spoon off a bit of fat, leaving about a teaspoon for flavor.
  5. Add the sauce. Pour the sauce into the skillet. It will bubble. Turn the thighs to coat.
  6. Simmer to thicken. Cook 5 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sauce becomes glossy and thick and the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part. If it thickens too fast, add a splash of water.
  7. Finish and garnish. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Let rest 2 minutes to set the glaze.
  8. Serve. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken. Pair with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or roasted veggies. Add lime wedges if you like a citrus pop.