Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden color.
Clean and rinse the chicken thighs, then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential as it helps the marinade adhere better and allows for a crispier skin.
Score the bottom of the chicken thighs by cutting three slits across the meat. This technique ensures that the honey and garlic marinade penetrates deeply, making the chicken even more flavorful.
Transfer the chicken thighs to a baking pan. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
Add the olive oil to the chicken and coat it evenly. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor.
Rub the minced garlic onto the chicken, ensuring some of the garlic gets inside the slits of the meat. This will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
Add the honey, salt, and cayenne pepper to the chicken. Stir and mix well, ensuring each piece of chicken is fully coated with the marinade.
Cover the chicken with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This helps to keep the moisture locked in and allows the flavors to meld.
After 30 minutes, uncover the foil and continue to bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the skin turns a beautiful golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy bites every time.
