This honey garlic chicken is sweet and sticky, paired perfectly with tender sweet potatoes. It’s not just tasty; it’s a one-pan wonder that makes clean-up a breeze!
I love how easy this meal is to whip up. Just toss it all in the oven and let it work its magic while I enjoy a little free time. Plus, sweet potatoes are just so cozy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you prefer breasts or even drumsticks, feel free to substitute. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different cuts cook at different rates.
Sweet Potatoes: They add great texture and sweetness. If you don’t have them, butternut squash or regular potatoes can work in a pinch. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for depth of flavor. If you’re in a rush, garlic powder can substitute, but the taste won’t be as bold. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for 4 cloves of fresh garlic.
Honey: This adds a lovely sweetness. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well. Remember that these will slightly alter the flavor, but they are great alternatives.
Soy Sauce: This brings umami to the dish. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. You can also use coconut aminos, but this will make the dish slightly sweeter.
How Do I Make the Perfect Chicken with a Sticky Sauce?
The secret to achieving that delicious sticky sauce is all in the preparation and cooking. Here are a few tips to ensure you get it just right:
- Mix your sauce ingredients thoroughly to ensure the honey and soy sauce blend well with the garlic and spices.
- Make sure to coat the chicken and sweet potatoes evenly with the sauce to get the most flavor in every bite.
- Baking at a higher temperature helps the sauce thicken and caramelize, creating that nice sticky finish you want.
- If you’d like an extra sticky texture, consider broiling the dish at the end. Just watch closely to avoid burning.
Enjoy cooking and relish the tasty aroma that fills your kitchen!
Honey Garlic Chicken And Sweet Potato
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced mushrooms or onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In less than an hour, you’ll have a warm and tasty dinner ready to share!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C). This will help get everything cooking nicely.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well blended and set aside.
3. Arrange the Vegetables:
Take your sweet potato cubes and spread them evenly in your greased baking dish. If you’re using sliced mushrooms or onions, toss them in with the sweet potatoes.
4. Add the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs over the sweet potatoes in the baking dish. Make sure they’re nicely positioned; this will help them cook evenly!
5. Pour on the Sauce:
Now, drizzle that yummy honey garlic sauce over both the chicken and sweet potatoes, making sure everything gets a good coating.
6. Bake:
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the sweet potatoes are soft.
7. Broil for Finish:
For an extra tasty caramelized finish, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your sticky honey garlic chicken hot, and don’t forget to drizzle any leftover sauce from the pan over it.
Enjoy your warm, flavorful meal! This dish is perfect for cozy dinners and will surely impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you need an alternative to honey, maple syrup or agave nectar works well. They provide a similar sweetness, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. Just make sure they are cut into even sizes to ensure they cook at the same rate as the sweet potatoes!