Ingredients
2 pounds (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the chicken evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Toss everything together until every piece is coated.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, carefully place the chicken into the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side until the chicken develops a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
Reduce the heat to medium and let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
Mix the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Slowly stir this mixture into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes thick, glossy, and silky.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss every piece until completely coated in the rich glaze. Let everything cook together for another 3–5 minutes so the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and add sesame seeds if desired.
Serve immediately while hot with fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, roasted vegetables, or warm homemade bread.
Tips
Chicken thighs stay extra juicy, but chicken breast also works beautifully.
Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently over low heat to keep the chicken tender and the glaze smooth.
This homemade glazed chicken is tender, juicy, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. Every bite combines savory garlic, rich butter, sweet honey, and smoky spices into a comforting meal that feels like classic home cooking.
Grandma’s Chicken – Sweet & Savory Glazed Chicken Recipe
