Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you're in the mood for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors with tender, juicy chicken, then look no further than these Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs. This recipe combines the rich umami of soy sauce with the deep sweetness of brown sugar, creating a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on chicken thighs. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delectable dish and discover how to make it step by step!

this Recipe

What Are Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs?

Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs are a simple yet flavor-packed dish that features chicken thighs coated in a rich, sticky glaze made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and a few other key ingredients. The chicken is first marinated to absorb all the flavors, then baked until the glaze becomes caramelized and the chicken is tender. The result is a dish that's both satisfying and bursting with flavor, with a perfect balance between the saltiness of the soy sauce and the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Ingredients List for Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. This recipe requires simple pantry staples, but they come together to create a dish that's far from ordinary.

For the Chicken Thighs:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The bone and skin add extra flavor and moisture to the chicken, making it incredibly tender.
• ½ cup soy sauce: Provides the savory, umami base for the glaze.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky, caramelized coating.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor to the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Gives the glaze a slightly spicy, zesty kick.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Balances the sweetness with a bit of acidity.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the glaze.
• ¼ cup water: To dissolve the cornstarch and make a slurry.

For Garnish and Serving:

• Sesame seeds: Adds a bit of crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Sliced green onions: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Steamed rice: The perfect side to soak up the delicious glaze.
• Steamed or sautéed vegetables: To add some color and nutrition to your plate.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:

Protein Options:

• Chicken breasts: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as they cook faster.
• Pork chops: This glaze also works wonderfully with pork chops or tenderloin.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Press it to remove excess moisture, then marinate and bake as you would with the chicken.

Flavor Adjustments:

• Honey instead of brown sugar: For a different kind of sweetness, use honey. It adds a floral note to the glaze.
• Tamari or coconut aminos: If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
• Lime juice instead of rice vinegar: For a citrusy twist, substitute lime juice for the rice vinegar.

Add-ins:

• Sliced bell peppers or carrots: Add them to the baking dish with the chicken for extra color and sweetness.
• Pineapple chunks: For a tropical flair, add pineapple chunks to the marinade. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the soy sauce glaze.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs that are perfectly glazed and deliciously tender.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the brown sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all the pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare for Baking

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place them skin-side up in the prepared baking dish. Reserve the marinade for later use.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken Thighs

1. Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
2. Thicken the reserved marinade: While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with ¼ cup of water to create a slurry. Bring the marinade to a simmer over medium heat, then slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the glaze has thickened.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

1. Glaze the chicken: After the chicken has baked for about 30 minutes, brush the thickened glaze over each thigh. Return the chicken to the oven for the remaining 5-10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize and become sticky.
2. Broil for extra crispiness (optional): If you want an extra-crispy finish, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and serve: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve the chicken thighs over steamed rice with a side of vegetables, spooning extra glaze over everything for added flavor.

How to Cook Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine the marinade ingredients and let the chicken thighs soak up all those delicious flavors for at least an hour. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking dish for easy cleanup. Arrange the chicken thighs in the dish, skin-side up, to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.

Step 3: Bake and Glaze

Bake the chicken until it's cooked through, then brush with the thickened glaze and return to the oven to let it caramelize. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and a sticky finish that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the glazed chicken thighs with your favorite sides, and don't forget to spoon extra glaze over the top for a rich, flavorful finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is relatively simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

Not Marinating Long Enough

Marinating the chicken for at least an hour is crucial for infusing it with flavor. If possible, marinate for several hours to get the best results.

Overcooking the Chicken

Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Not Thickening the Glaze

Skipping the cornstarch slurry will result in a thin glaze that doesn’t adhere well to the chicken. Make sure to thicken the glaze for that perfect sticky coating.

Forgetting to Reserve the Marinade

It’s easy to forget to set aside some of the marinade before baking, but it’s essential for creating the glaze. Always remember to reserve it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present and serve your Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs can take the dish to the next level. Here’s how to do it:

How to Serve Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

• Family-style: Serve the chicken thighs on a large platter, with the extra glaze drizzled over the top. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for a beautiful finish.
• Individual servings: Plate each chicken thigh over a bed of steamed rice, with a portion of vegetables on the side. Spoon some glaze over the chicken and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Presentation Ideas for Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a few sprigs of cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Use a colorful plate: Serve the dish on a bright or patterned plate to contrast with the rich brown glaze.
• Layer the sides: Place the rice on the bottom, chicken on top, and veggies around the edges for a visually appealing presentation.

Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

Make Ahead

You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken the night before. This makes dinner time quick and easy since you only need to bake and glaze the chicken.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little water or extra glaze to keep the chicken moist.

Leftover Ideas

Shred the leftover chicken and use it in sandwiches, salads, or wraps. It also works great in stir-fries or as a topping for fried rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A: Yes, boneless thighs work well too, but they will cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade, or drizzle with sriracha or another hot sauce before serving.

Q: Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
A: Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a nice char and smoky flavor. Just be sure to baste with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.

Q: What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
A: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes for rice vinegar.

Q: Can I make this dish with chicken drumsticks or wings?
A: Yes, you can use drumsticks or wings. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size of the pieces.

Conclusion

Glazed Soy Sauce Brown Sugar Chicken Thighs offer a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors that are sure to please everyone at the table. This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With the right balance of flavors, a beautiful caramelized glaze, and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a meal that's as delicious as it is satisfying!

Print