Easy and Delicious Glazed Chicken Recipe

Have you ever craved a dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in perfect harmony? Glazed chicken is your answer. With its glossy finishand rich taste, this dish is not only visually appealing but also tantalizing to the palate. Imagine perfectly cooked chicken coated in a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it cooks, leaving you wanting more.

This recipe will guide you through creating the ultimate glazed chicken at home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening with family, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken and a sticky glaze makes it an unforgettable meal. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this simple yet delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Glazed Chicken

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet and savory ingredients creates an irresistible glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, alongside vegetables, or in wraps—glazed chicken fits seamlessly into various meal plans.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its appealing presentation and delightful taste, this dish is bound to impress family and friends alike at any gathering.

Ingredients for Glazed Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for their juiciness; however, breasts work well too if you prefer them.
• Honey: This natural sweetener adds a rich flavor and helps create that beautiful glaze.
• Soy Sauce: Choose low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still allowing the flavors to shine through.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives the glaze an aromatic kick; use minced garlic for the best results.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth; choose firm ginger root for optimal flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps achieve that perfect glossy texture in your glaze.
• Water: Combined with cornstarch, water helps create the ideal consistency for your sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Glazed Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well until combined; this will serve as both marinade and glaze.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Place it on the prepared baking sheet and pour remaining marinade over it. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

While the chicken bakes, combine cornstarch and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add any leftover marinade from baking. Stir until thickened; then remove from heat.

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer baked chicken onto plates and drizzle with your homemade glaze for that finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious glazed chicken!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance flavor significantly compared to dried options.
• Let It Rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing helps retain its juices.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider roasting some veggies on the same baking sheet during cooking.

Mistakes to avoid

• Over-Marinating the Chicken: While marinating is essential for flavor, overdoing it can lead to a mushy texture. Ideally, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 24 hours. The acidity in marinades can break down the proteins too much if left too long. This results in a less pleasant mouthfeel and can ruin your glazed chicken. Aim for that perfect balance where the flavors infuse without compromising texture.
• Skipping the Searing Step: Many home cooks overlook the importance of searing their chicken before glazing. Searing locks in moisture and creates a beautiful caramelized crust that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you skip this step, your glazed chicken may end up bland or rubbery. Take the time to sear each piece on medium-high heat until golden brown, then proceed with glazing for a dish that truly stands out.
• Not Monitoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking glazed chicken at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking or dryness. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you cook it too quickly, the outside may burn while the inside remains undercooked. Use medium heat and be patient; this will give you juicy, perfectly cooked glazed chicken every time.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Glazed Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup soy sauce

– 1/2 cup honey

– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Glazed Chicken:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. This marinade gives the chicken its rich flavor.

2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate for up to 4 hours.

3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat to 375°F (190°C).

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season it with salt and pepper.

5. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If baking, place on a greased baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes.

6. In the meantime, pour the leftover marinade into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened.

7. Once cooked, brush the thickened glaze over the chicken before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Glazed Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Steamed rice – The sweet and savory flavors complement fluffy rice perfectly.
• Stir-fried vegetables – A colorful medley of vegetables adds crunch and nutrition.
• Cauliflower mash – A low-carb option that contrasts beautifully with the glaze.

FAQs

What is Glazed Chicken?

Glazed Chicken refers to chicken that is coated with a sweet and savory sauce that creates a shiny finish when cooked. The glaze typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and various spices to enhance flavor. This method of cooking not only adds taste but also creates an appealing visual presentation on your plate.

Can I use other meats for this glazed recipe?

Yes, you can use other meats such as pork or even firm tofu as alternatives in this glazed recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly since different proteins have varying cooking requirements.

How can I store leftover Glazed Chicken?

To store leftover Glazed Chicken, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to four hours in advance or even overnight if you prefer stronger flavors. Cooked Glazed Chicken can also be prepared ahead of time; just reheat before serving.

Conclusion for Glazed Chicken

Glazed Chicken stands out as a delightful dish full of flavor and versatility. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy succulent chicken coated in a delicious glaze that tantalizes your taste buds. Remember to properly marinate your chicken for optimal flavor infusion, and don’t hesitate to experiment with side dishes that pair well with your glazed creation. Whether served over rice or alongside stir-fried veggies, this dish will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your culinary adventure with Glazed Chicken!