Appetizer Main course

Soy Glazed Chicken – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Name: Soy Glazed Chicken – Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2.5 tbsp raw honey: This natural sweetener balances the soy sauce.; 1 tbsp rice vinegar: It adds a tangy note that brightens the dish.; 3 tbsp cornstarch: This creates a light coating, ensuring a delightful texture.; 1.5 tbsp freshly minced garlic: Add that aromatic punch!; 2 boneless chicken thighs with skin, trimmed: Thighs are juicy and cook quickly.; 0.5 tbsp Chinese five-spice blend: A unique mix that sets this apart.; 3.5 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Essential for that savory base.; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil: It lends a warm, nutty scent.; Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste.

Iris Miller September 12, 2025

Servings: 2 Total Time: 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into the delicious details of our soy glazed chicken recipe, let’s talk about pairing it with the perfect sides. Imagine hosting a casual dinner. Picture the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables on your table. A refreshing cucumber salad with a hint of zesty lime, perhaps? Or how about some fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the sweet and savory sauce? If you’re feeling adventurous, add a side of roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and a sprinkle of salt. These flavors complement the soy glazed chicken and create a well-rounded meal. Too easy, right?

Besides, dessert isn’t off the table. A light mango sorbet can cleanse the palate and wrap up the evening beautifully. Now that we have the sides sorted, let’s get into the main act!

Fast meals don’t have to skimp on flavor. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up vibrant soy glazed chicken. This dish showcases the beauty of simplicity. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. But what truly sets this recipe apart? Read on, and I’ll share my insights and tips while we cook together.

What is Soy Glazed Chicken in 20 Minutes?

Alright, let’s break it down. Soy glazed chicken is essentially chicken thighs glazed in a rich and slightly sweet sauce made primarily from soy sauce, honey, and garlic. What makes this recipe quick? The use of boneless chicken thighs. Thighs cook faster and are incredibly flavorful. What’s more, you won’t need a long marinating time. Just prep, cook, and within minutes, it’s ready to serve.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Soy Glazed Chicken Recipes?

Many soy glazed chicken recipes call for a lengthy marination or complicated steps. This recipe flips the script by maximizing speed with minimal ingredients while preserving depth of flavor. Omit the long wait without sacrificing a punch of seasoning. It remains casual yet distinctive, thanks to the unique addition of five-spice blend. This brings layers of taste that will wow your taste buds.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine a dance of flavors—the salty richness of soy mingling seamlessly with the sweet undertones of honey, brightened by a touch of garlic. The result? A dish that’s savory yet deliciously sweet. The five-spice blend adds intrigue, while the sesame oil gives a warm, nutty finish. You’ll want to savor every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Here’s your shopping list for soy glazed chicken:

2.5 tbsp raw honey: This natural sweetener balances the soy sauce.
1 tbsp rice vinegar: It adds a tangy note that brightens the dish.
3 tbsp cornstarch: This creates a light coating, ensuring a delightful texture.
1.5 tbsp freshly minced garlic: Add that aromatic punch!
2 boneless chicken thighs with skin, trimmed: Thighs are juicy and cook quickly.
0.5 tbsp Chinese five-spice blend: A unique mix that sets this apart.
3.5 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Essential for that savory base.
1 tsp toasted sesame oil: It lends a warm, nutty scent.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Season with salt and pepper. This is the foundation of your flavor. Don’t rush this step—the seasoning is crucial.

Step 2: Create the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and five-spice blend. Watch how the colors shift as they mingle together. This is where the magic happens.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take your cornstarch and coat each chicken thigh evenly. This step might seem small, but it’s going to add that wonderful crispiness to the glaze when cooked.

Step 4: Heat the Pan

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes browning. The sizzle of the oil is a good sign!

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the hot skillet. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes. Flip them once golden and cook for another 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Pour on the Glaze

Once the chicken is almost cooked through, pour your freshly made glaze over the top. Watch it bubble and thicken as it envelops the chicken. It takes about 2-3 minutes for it to really soak in.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

After everything is nicely glazed and cooked, remove the chicken from the heat. Slice it up if you like or serve whole with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top. Pair up with your chosen sides, and watch everyone dig in.

Tips & Tricks on Making Soy Glazed Chicken

Choose quality soy sauce: A flavorful soy sauce can significantly impact your dish.

Let the chicken rest: After cooking, let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute.

Use a non-stick skillet: It makes the cooking process smoother and easier.

Double the glaze for extra sauce: Feel free to make a bit more if you love a saucy delight.

Experiment with vegetables: Stir-fry some broccoli or bell peppers alongside the chicken for added nutrition.

Nutrition Information

For a serving of soy glazed chicken, the nutrition breakdown looks something like this:

Calories: Approximately 250-350
Protein: About 22g
Fat: Roughly 12-15g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g

These values can vary based on specific brands and cooking methods. Keep in mind this dish packs plenty of nutrients while still being satisfying.

How Do I Store This Dish?

If you find yourself with leftovers (which rarely happens), store them in an airtight container. Place in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat for best results. This helps revive the flavors.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Soy Glazed Chicken?

Looking for alternatives? Here are five suggestions:

Chicken Breasts: If you prefer leaner meat, boneless chicken breasts work too. They may need adjustments in cook time, as they can dry out quickly.

Maple Syrup: Swap out honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. It’s also vegan-friendly!

Tamari Sauce: If you’re gluten-free, tamari is a fantastic substitute for soy sauce and still delivers that umami taste.

Coconut Aminos: Another gluten-free option, coconut aminos offers similar flavors with a slightly sweeter touch.

Vegetables: Try using firm tofu, cut into cubes, if you want a hearty vegetarian option. Just follow the same steps for cooking, adjusting as needed.

Conclusion

There you have it—soy glazed chicken in 20 minutes. This quick recipe is perfect for any evening plans. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a satisfying meal that brings joy to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a family gathering, or friends, this dish won’t disappoint. So, roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Print Recipe

Soy Glazed Chicken – Friendsgiving Food Ideas

Author: Iris Miller Cuisine: American, Asian Courses: Appetizer, Main course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 20 mins

Servings: 2 Calories: 250

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ingredients

2.5 tbsp raw honey: This natural sweetener balances the soy sauce.
1 tbsp rice vinegar: It adds a tangy note that brightens the dish.
3 tbsp cornstarch: This creates a light coating, ensuring a delightful texture.
1.5 tbsp freshly minced garlic: Add that aromatic punch!
2 boneless chicken thighs with skin, trimmed: Thighs are juicy and cook quickly.
0.5 tbsp Chinese five-spice blend: A unique mix that sets this apart.
3.5 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Essential for that savory base.
1 tsp toasted sesame oil: It lends a warm, nutty scent.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste.