Quick Weeknight Chicken Thighs with Soy Sauce and Honey in 15 Minutes

When the clock is ticking and dinner needs to be on the table fast, a simple, flavorful chicken recipe can save the day! This quick weeknight chicken thighs recipe combines savory soy sauce, a touch of chili oil for heat, and a drizzle of honey for sweetness. It came about on one of those weekdays when i had a list of things to do and only 20 mins to make dinner. It takes just 5 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing taste. The moment I had the first bite, I knew I had to share with you all.

Golden-brown chicken thighs cooked in a skillet with soy sauce and honey glaze

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple pantry staples that you might already have:

• 1 lb Chicken thighs (boneless)

• 2 tbsp Soy sauce for a salty, umami base

• 1 tbsp Chili oil to add a gentle kick of heat

• 1 tsp Ground Black pepper for seasoning

• 1 tsp Chicken bouillon powder to boost savory depth

• 1 tsp Garlic powder for aromatic flavor

• 1 tsp Honey to balance the saltiness with sweetness

  
  

These ingredients come together quickly and create a balanced sauce that clings to the chicken, making every bite delicious.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prep the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, chili oil, ground black pepper, chicken bouillon, garlic powder and honey. Adjust the amount of chili oil depending on how spicy you want the dish. The honey should be just enough to add a subtle sweetness without overpowering the savory flavors. Add the chicken thighs and cover submerge them into the sauce to fully cover both sides.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes . Flip the thighs and pour the left over sauce over them. Let the chicken cook for another 4-5 minutes until it reaches internal temperature of 160. Take out the chicken and cut it into small pieces and place back into the skillet. Sauté for 2 mins to allow the sauce to cover the chicken pieces and bring the temperature to 165.

3. Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and serve the chicken thighs with your favorite sides like steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even browning.

• Adjust chili oil carefully. Start with a small amount and add more if you like heat.

• Use a non-stick or cast iron skillet for even heat distribution.

  
  

Variations to Try

• Add fresh minced garlic or ginger to the sauce for extra aroma.

• Toss in chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.

• Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

• Use lime juice or rice vinegar for a tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sauce.

• Pair with roasted or steamed broccoli, green beans, or snap peas.

• Add a side of quick pickled cucumbers or carrots for crunch and acidity.

• For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad.

  
  

This recipe also works well as leftovers. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Check out @FLOURISHWITHG on IG and TikTok for more recipes.