Go Back
Honey Garlic Bourbon Glazed Chicken Thighs cooked to perfection with a savory glaze

Honey Garlic Bourbon Glazed Chicken Thighs

This Honey Garlic Bourbon Glazed Chicken Thighs recipe is warm, sweet, and just a little smoky. Enjoy sticky, glossy chicken with a bright garlic bite and a hint of bourbon flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or serving guests.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken Preparation
  • 4 pieces chicken thighs Bone-in, skin-on for best flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt To taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper To taste
  • 1 tablespoon oil For browning the chicken
Glaze Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon Can substitute with chicken stock or orange juice if needed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  2. Season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add a little oil.
  2. Brown the thighs skin side down for 4 to 6 minutes until golden, then flip and brown the other side for 3 to 4 minutes.
Making the Glaze
  1. While the chicken browns, mix honey, minced garlic, bourbon, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
  2. Lower the heat to medium low, pour the glaze over the chicken, and spoon it over the thighs.
  3. Cook until the sauce thickens and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 10 more minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Finishing Touches
  1. For a crisp finish, place the glazed thighs under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely so the glaze does not burn.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before cooking for better browning. Use medium high heat initially, then lower to finish cooking. Stir glaze well and taste, add salt or lemon for brightness if needed. Watch the glaze as it thickens to prevent burning. If you prefer no alcohol, use a bourbon-flavored extract or skip bourbon and add more soy sauce with orange juice.