There’s something truly satisfying about a meal that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is a recipe that perfectly fits the bill. It’s an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something nutritious and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, complemented by crisp green beans, all cooked together in one pan for maximum flavor and minimum cleanup.
I remember discovering this recipe on a chilly evening after a long day at work. My friend Sarah had invited me over for dinner, and I was amazed at how effortlessly she prepared this dish. As we caught up over a glass of wine, the aroma of garlic and honey filled her kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. When she finally served the meal, I was blown away by the combination of flavors – the juicy chicken, the sweetness of the honey, and the aromatic herbs. It was comfort food at its finest.
Since then, this One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken has become a staple in my home. I’ve experimented with a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding a splash of soy sauce for an extra layer of umami or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Sometimes, I swap out the green beans for broccoli or asparagus, depending on what’s in season or what I have on hand. These small changes keep the recipe fresh and exciting, making it a versatile addition to any cook’s repertoire.
What I love most about this dish is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing. The golden-brown chicken thighs nestled among vibrant green beans make for a beautiful presentation, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, the ease of cleanup – only one pan to wash – makes it even more appealing.
In summary, One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken is a delightful recipe that brings together convenience and taste. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So, next time you’re in need of a quick and delicious meal, give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed.
Making One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken
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Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves
- pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
Set your oven to preheat at 400°F.
Sprinkle the chicken thighs with salt and pepper according to your taste.
In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet with the skin side down and sear until both sides are golden brown, allowing the skin to get crispy.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Dispose of the excess fat but keep a small amount in the pan.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and stir until it becomes fragrant. Combine with brown sugar, honey, thyme, and oregano, mixing well. Lower the heat to a simmer.
Return the chicken to the skillet, ensuring it is well-coated with the sauce.
Place the green beans around the chicken in the skillet.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Serve and enjoy your tasty one-pan honey garlic chicken!
Storing Suggestions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a few minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may cook faster than thighs. Check for doneness earlier to avoid drying out the meat.
What can I substitute for green beans?
You can substitute green beans with other vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are tender.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply assemble and bake as directed.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the sauce and cook until it thickens to your liking.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can include red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
What should I do if my chicken skin isn’t getting crispy?
If the chicken skin isn’t getting crispy, try increasing the searing time on the stovetop or placing the skillet under the broiler for a few minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
One-Pan Honey Garlic Chicken
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter unsalted
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 pound green beans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with a bit of salt and pepper.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, in the skillet and sear until golden brown on both sides. The skin side will take longer to get crispy and render the fat properly.
- Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Discard any excess fat, but leave a small amount in the pan for flavor.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring until it becomes fragrant. Mix in the brown sugar, honey, thyme, and oregano, stirring well to combine. Reduce the heat to low.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it thoroughly with the sauce.
- Add the green beans around the chicken in the skillet.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Enjoy your delicious one-pan honey garlic chicken!
