Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are an impressive dish that’s full of flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up this dish in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one pan.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce and garlic creates a rich, savory flavor that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Meal: Serve with rice and veggies for a complete dinner or use leftovers in salads or wraps.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters with its delicious taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make preparation smoother and quicker.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan: Essential for even cooking and ensuring all chicken thighs fit comfortably while frying.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining your sauce ingredients and coating the chicken evenly.
• Whisk or fork: Helps mix the sauce smoothly without lumps, ensuring a well-blended flavor.
• Paper towels: Important for drying the chicken thighs before cooking to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.

Ingredients

To make these Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, gather the following 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 (or 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 Soy Garlic Chicken Sauce

• In a mixing bowl, combine:
• 1/2 cup chicken stock (or substitute with water and chicken bouillon)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• Mix thoroughly until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Dry the boneless skinless chicken thighs using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• On a large plate, mix together:
• 3 tbsp potato starch
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thighs

• Lightly coat both sides of each chicken thigh with the potato starch 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.
• Remove cooked chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

• In the same pan, add minced garlic, white parts of green onion, and red chili flakes. Sauté for about three minutes until garlic turns golden brown.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

• Add your pre-prepared sauce to the pan. Cook for about one minute or until thickened.
• Return fried chicken to the pan, cooking for another five minutes until fully glazed with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs alongside your choice of vegetables and steamed rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Serving Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice complements the savory sauce, soaking up the delicious flavors.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken on a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and healthy option.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrients, balancing the dish perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with chopped cilantro or basil brings freshness to the meal.

In a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create wraps filled with chicken and veggies for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

To achieve the best results when making Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose good-quality chicken: Fresh, boneless skinless thighs provide better flavor and texture.
• Don’t skip drying: Patting the chicken dry ensures a crispier coating when frying.
• Control your heat: Keep the oil at medium-high heat to avoid soggy chicken; too low may result in undercooked meat.
• Monitor cooking time: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking for juicier meat.
• Adjust sauce thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an extra teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

Pairing side dishes with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fried Rice
   A flavorful mix of rice stir-fried with vegetables and eggs makes a great accompaniment.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance to the dish.

3. Sautéed Green Beans
   Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic add a crunchy texture and fresh taste.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

5. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots lends brightness and acidity to your plate.

6. Cucumber Salad
   Cool cucumber slices dressed in vinegar provide a refreshing palate cleanser alongside savory chicken.

7. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
   Quick-stir-fried bok choy adds Asian flair while keeping the meal light and nutritious.

8. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy baked sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries, adding sweetness to balance the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that could impact your dish. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to dry the chicken thighs can lead to a soggy coating. Use a paper towel to ensure they’re fully dry before breading.
• Not Heating the Oil Properly: Adding chicken to oil that isn’t hot enough can result in uneven cooking. Make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the thighs.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many pieces in one pan can lower the temperature and cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Neglecting to Stir the Sauce: If you don’t stir the sauce while it thickens, it might burn at the bottom of the pan. Keep an eye on it and stir as needed.
• Forgetting to Adjust Seasoning: Tasting is crucial! Don’t forget to adjust seasoning in both the breading and sauce according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs:

How do I make Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs spicier?

You can add more red chili flakes or incorporate fresh chopped chilies into the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?

Yes, bone-in thighs can be used, but they will require longer cooking times. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What sides pair well with Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?

These chicken thighs go wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix your sauce ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs are not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe allows for various modifications based on personal taste—consider adding veggies or changing up spices to suit your preferences. Give this dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Easy Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs offer a delightful blend of savory flavors and simplicity, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressing guests. This one-pan recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a rich soy-garlic sauce that is both quick to prepare and highly satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Pair it with rice or fresh vegetables for a complete dinner that bursts with flavor.

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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 minced garlic
• 2 stalks green onion (green and white parts separated)
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 3 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 1 tsp cornstarch

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken stock, honey, rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch until smooth; set aside.
2. Dry the chicken thighs with paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix potato starch, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each chicken thigh in the starch mixture.
4. Heat neutral oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken thighs for about 7 minutes on each side until golden brown; remove and set aside.
5. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic and white parts of green onion until fragrant. Add the sauce mixture and cook until thickened.
6. Return the chicken to the pan, coating it evenly with the sauce for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 thigh (150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 100mg