If you’re on the hunt for a new favorite chicken recipe, look no further. Soy glazed chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, paired with a crispy, golden-brown exterior that will leave you craving more.

This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soy glazed chicken hits all the right notes when it comes to flavor and texture. The crispy coating made from cornstarch gives the chicken a satisfying crunch, while the rich soy glaze adds depth and complexity. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, this dish is as visually appealing as it is tasty. Plus, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables, making it a well-rounded meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible soy glazed chicken:

For the Chicken:

5 chicken thighs (boneless)
1⁄2 cup cornstarch
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp oil, for frying
2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp dark soy sauce
1 tsp five spice powder
2 cloves garlic, grated

For Garnish:

Sesame seeds
1 scallion, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving that crispy, golden-brown crust. Next, combine the cornstarch, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with this mixture, making sure every inch is covered.

2. Fry to Perfection

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. The chicken should be cooked all the way through at this point. Once done, set the chicken aside on a plate.

3. Create the Soy Glaze

Using the same pan (don’t wash it—you’ll want to keep all those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Be sure to scrape up any fond from the bottom of the pan as it melts; this will add an extra layer of flavor to your sauce.

In a separate bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, five spice powder, and grated garlic until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pan with the melted butter. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken thighs to the pan, ensuring they’re fully coated in the luscious soy glaze. Let them simmer for a minute or two so they can soak up all that delicious flavor.

5. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the glazed chicken to a cutting board and slice it into pieces. Plate your chicken over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions for that final touch of flavor and presentation. And just like that, dinner is served!

Tips for Success

Use Boneless Chicken Thighs: Thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them ideal for this recipe.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: The cornstarch gives the chicken its signature crispy coating, so don’t skimp on it.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey slightly.
Add Heat: For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

Perfect Pairings

Soy glazed chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

Steamed Rice: The perfect base to soak up all that savory glaze.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas add color and balance.
Pickled Veggies: A tangy side like pickled cucumbers or radishes complements the richness of the dish.

A Dish That Delivers Every Time

Soy glazed chicken is one of those recipes that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. The combination of crispy chicken and rich soy glaze is simply irresistible.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try tonight. Trust me—you’ll be coming back for seconds!