Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. It’s important to get the pan hot enough to sear the chicken properly. Once it’s hot, add the vegetable oil.
While the oil is heating, season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet. Let it cook undisturbed for about 3 to 5 minutes on one side. You want to achieve a nice golden brown color before flipping it over.
After the first side has developed a lovely crust, flip the chicken and let it cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165˚F, which guarantees that the chicken is cooked through.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.
In the same skillet, add the garlic and onion. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Next, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the soy sauce and honey. Stir the mixture while scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious brown bits left from the chicken. This adds depth to your sauce.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it in the sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, coating each piece of chicken evenly.
Finally, serve your Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs hot off the skillet, garnished with chopped green onion and toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.
