Delicious Honey Soy Chicken Thighs

To create a flavorful and aromatic chicken dish, follow this detailed recipe that combines a variety of spices and a delicious glaze. This recipe serves approximately 4 people and is perfect for a family dinner or gathering.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken bottoms (thighs or legs, cut in half if desired)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp dark brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp ground clove
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger powder
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/2 tsp coriander
• 1 tsp dried scallions or chives
• 1 cup chicken broth

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mirin
• 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar

Method of Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for slowly cooking the chicken, allowing it to become tender and juicy.

2. Prepare the Spice Rub

In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry spices:

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dark brown sugar
• Ground clove
• Nutmeg
• Cinnamon
• Ginger powder
• Allspice
• Coriander
• Dried scallions or chives

Mix these ingredients thoroughly to create a spice rub that will infuse the chicken with rich flavors.

3. Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin later on. Rub the spice mixture generously over the chicken, ensuring an even coating on all sides.

4. Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken pieces in a Pyrex dish, roasting pan, or a 9x13-inch baking tin. Pour the 1 cup of chicken broth into the dish around the chicken. This broth will keep the chicken moist during baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.

5. Prepare the Glaze

While the chicken is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine:

• Honey
• Soy sauce
• Mirin
• Rice wine vinegar

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until it is well combined and slightly thickened. This glaze will add a sweet and savory finish to the chicken.

6. Increase the Oven Temperature

After the chicken has baked for an hour, remove it from the oven and carefully take off the foil. Transfer the chicken pieces to a flat baking tray. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).

7. Glaze and Roast

Using a brush or spoon, generously coat the chicken with the prepared glaze. This step is crucial for achieving a caramelized, crispy exterior. Roast the chicken uncovered in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

8. Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Tips for Serving

• Serve the glazed chicken with sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
• Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

This recipe combines aromatic spices with a sweet and savory glaze, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Enjoy your flavorful chicken!