Description

If you're looking for a recipe that is both simple and full of flavor, this Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks with Honey and Soy Sauce is the perfect choice. With ingredients you likely already have at home, such as garlic, butter, and soy sauce, this dish combines the sweetness of honey with the saltiness of soy sauce, creating a harmonious and irresistible flavor experience. The paprika adds a slightly smoky touch, while the garlic and fresh herbs finish the dish with freshness and aroma.

The chicken itself is juicy and tender, thanks to the frying followed by a steam-cooking technique with water, ensuring a perfect texture and intense flavor. This recipe is ideal for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner, and in just a few steps, you can serve a dish worthy of a restaurant, but made in the comfort of your own kitchen

Ingredients

• 2 chicken thighs and drumsticks
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Paprika to taste
• All-purpose flour (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• A drizzle of oil
• 100 ml (approximately 3.38 oz) of water
• 5 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• Honey to taste
• Chopped fresh herbs to taste
• 50 ml (approximately 1.69 oz) of soy sauce

Step by Step Instructions

• Step 1

  

  Start by cleaning the two chicken thighs and drumsticks. With a sharp knife, make shallow cuts on both sides of the chicken. These cuts help distribute the seasonings better and allow the chicken to cook more evenly

• Step 2

  

  Next, season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt, pepper, and a good amount of paprika. The paprika will add a vibrant color to the chicken, as well as a slightly smoky flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Be sure to rub the seasoning into the cuts made earlier for better flavor absorption

• Step 3

  

  Now, coat each seasoned thigh and drumstick with all-purpose flour. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated on all sides. This will create a golden and crispy crust when fried, while sealing in the juices to keep the chicken moist

• Step 4

  

  In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and a drizzle of oil. The oil will prevent the butter from burning, allowing it to melt evenly and cook the chicken at the right temperature. Heat the skillet over medium heat until the butter is fully melted

• Step 5

  

  Place the flour-coated chicken thighs and drumsticks into the hot skillet. Fry them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This step seals the meat, ensuring the chicken stays juicy on the inside.

• Step 6

  

  After frying the chicken, add 100 ml (3.38 oz) of water to the skillet. Cover the pan and allow the chicken to steam in the water. This helps ensure the inside of the thighs and drumsticks cook evenly while preventing the chicken from drying out. Let it cook for about 10 minutes

• Step 7

  

  When most of the water has evaporated, add the 5 chopped garlic cloves to the skillet. The garlic will release its flavor and aroma, enhancing the dish and adding an irresistible touch to the chicken. Stir gently to coat the chicken with the garlic

• Step 8

  

  Next, pour 50 ml (1.69 oz) of soy sauce into the skillet. The soy sauce brings a salty, umami flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the honey, which will be added later. Let the chicken cook for a few more minutes to absorb the soy sauce

• Step 9

  

  Now, drizzle the chicken generously with honey. The honey will caramelize slightly with the heat from the skillet, creating a sweet glaze that contrasts beautifully with the salty soy sauce. Stir gently to make sure the honey coats the chicken evenly

• Step 10

  

  To finish the sauce, add one more tablespoon of butter to the skillet. The butter will enrich the sauce, making it creamier and more luxurious. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce

• Step 11

  

  Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) over the chicken. The herbs bring a pop of freshness and color to the dish, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of the sauce

• Step 12

  

  Your dish is now ready! Serve the chicken thighs and drumsticks with honey and soy sauce alongside steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy the unique flavor of this dish, which balances sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of paprika

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
If you enjoy a touch of citrus, you can add a few slices of lemon to the skillet during the final minutes of cooking. The lemon will bring a refreshing acidity that complements the honey and soy sauce perfectly. You can also serve the dish with extra sauce on the side for your guests to add as they please.

Conclusion:
This Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks with Honey and Soy Sauce recipe is a true explosion of flavors. With a simple preparation and easy-to-find ingredients, you can transform a regular chicken dish into something special, worthy of any occasion. Follow these 12 steps carefully and get ready to savor a dish that will undoubtedly be a hit at your table.