# Sticky Baked Chicken Thighs: A Mouthwatering Oven-Roasted Treat
These sticky baked chicken thighs are a gastronomic pleasure, boasting crispy skin and robust flavors in each bite. Roasted in the oven to juicy perfection, they are coated with a rich maple-soy sauce that caramelizes nicely as it cooks, achieving a delightful harmony of sweet and savory.
## Flavor Characteristics
– **Taste**: The glaze is a perfect fusion of maple syrup, garlic, and Dijon mustard, offering depth and indulgence.
– **Difficulty**: This recipe is easy and suitable for novices, requiring minimal active time due to the oven roasting technique.
– **Substitutions**: Honey can replace maple syrup, and gluten-free tamari may be used in place of soy sauce for individuals with dietary needs.
– **Serving Ideas**: The leftover sauce can be drizzled on rice, veggies, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
## Essential Pantry Ingredients
1. **Chicken Thighs**: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are preferred for achieving crispy skin and juicy meat. Boneless thighs can be used but will cook faster, while skinless thighs are not advised.
2. **Garlic**: Fresh minced garlic adds a strong flavor; pre-minced garlic can provide a gentler taste.
3. **Maple Syrup**: This component gives the dish its distinctive sticky-sweet texture. Honey can be a close alternative and works well with apple cider vinegar.
4. **Dijon Mustard**: It aids in emulsifying the glaze and contributes a savory sharpness; whole grain or yellow mustard can serve as alternatives in a bind.
5. **Additions**: For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes, and finish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
## Steps for Creating Seriously Sticky Chicken Thighs
1. **Getting Ready**: Dry the chicken, season it, and roast it in the oven until it’s partially cooked.
2. **Making the Glaze**: Cook the maple-soy glaze (full recipe below).
3. **Applying Coat**: Brush the glaze over the thighs and place them back in the oven until they are caramelized and fully cooked.
4. **Broiling**: Broil briefly for a golden finish, then let it rest before serving.
### Success Tips
– Dry the chicken to guarantee crispy skin.
– If the glaze becomes too thick, dilute it with a bit of water or chicken broth.
– Line your baking tray with foil or parchment for easier cleanup.
– Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F–175°F.
– Glaze the chicken twice in the last 10 minutes for increased stickiness, and broil for 1–2 minutes for additional color.
– Double the sauce if you like more for serving.
– This glaze can also be brushed on pork chops, beef meatballs, salmon, or tofu during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
## Making the Most of Your Leftovers
These sticky chicken thighs keep well and reheat nicely, making them ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
– **Storage**: Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Cooked thighs can also be frozen for up to 3 months, with extra sauce stored separately.
– **Reheating**: Warm them in a 350°F oven, brushing with a bit of sauce to maintain juiciness. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until warm, then air fry or broil for a couple of minutes to crisp the skin.
## Final Thoughts
These sticky chicken thighs are not only simple to prepare but also provide a deliciously fulfilling meal that is sure to impress. Whether for a weekday dinner or a special event, this recipe is a must-try for any chicken enthusiast. Savor the sweet and savory flavors that make this dish a favorite!
### Recipe Summary
– **Servings**: 8
– **Preparation Time**: 5 minutes
– **Cooking Time**: 47 minutes
– **Total Time**: 57 minutes
### Ingredients
#### For the Chicken:
– Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
#### For the Sauce:
– Maple syrup
– Soy sauce
– Apple cider vinegar
– Dijon mustard
– Garlic
– Cornstarch
### Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment and spray with nonstick spray.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper, then place skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 35 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Whisk in the maple syrup, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, garlic, and cornstarch.