Name: 30-Minute Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs That Wow
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 cup sweet Thai chili sauce; 4 tbsp soy sauce; 4 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 1 tbsp sriracha; 2 tsp lemongrass paste; Juice of 1 lime; 2 large garlic cloves, minced; 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 2 tbsp coconut oil; Salt & pepper, to taste; Chopped cilantro, for garnish

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Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender chicken in a delicious sweet, tangy, and spicy glaze, finished with fresh cilantro. This dish is a fantastic way to elevate your weeknight dinners or impress your guests during gatherings. The blend of flavors in this recipe is sure to tickle your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs

This dish is not only mouthwatering but also versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore these Thai glazed chicken thighs:

Quick to prepare, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish.
Loaded with flavor, thanks to the sweet and spicy marinade.
Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Accommodates various dietary needs, as it’s gluten-free.
Pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or rice noodles.
Can be grilled for a smoky flavor or roasted for a crispy finish.

These reasons make this the best sticky chicken thighs recipe for any occasion, showcasing authentic Thai cuisine.

Ingredients for Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs

Gather these items:

1 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
4 tbsp soy sauce
4 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
1 tbsp sriracha
2 tsp lemongrass paste
Juice of 1 lime
2 large garlic cloves, minced
8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tbsp coconut oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Chopped cilantro, for garnish

How to Make Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make the Sauce: Whisk all sauce ingredients together in a medium bowl. Adjust to taste.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken: Heat coconut oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Sear skin-side down for 5–6 minutes, then flip and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer in Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the sauce over the chicken. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Uncover and simmer for another 5–10 minutes until sauce thickens.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken. Let rest for 5 minutes and serve with jasmine rice or rice noodles, quick-pickled cucumbers, lime wedges, and extra cilantro.

Pro Tips for the Best Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs

Keep these in mind:

Use low-sodium soy sauce if preferred for a healthier option.
Maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan alternative.
Fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint can be used for garnish to enhance flavor.
For an added crunch, broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs

These flavorful Thai-style chicken thighs are best served with:

Fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Crispy rice noodles for a textural contrast.
Quick-pickled cucumbers to add freshness and crunch.

30-Minute Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs That Wow - Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. This makes meal prep a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs

What’s the secret to perfect Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs?

The key is to ensure the chicken is well-seasoned and the sauce is balanced between sweet and spicy. Using skin-on thighs also helps retain moisture and adds flavor.

Can I make Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the sauce a day in advance. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, making them even more delicious.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs?

Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the chicken, which can lead to steaming instead of searing. Make sure to let the chicken rest after cooking for optimal juiciness.

Variations of Thai Sticky Chicken Thighs You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Try adding different spices for a spicy kick, like cayenne pepper for spicy Thai sticky chicken thighs.
Substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks or wings for a different texture.
For a unique twist, use a Thai chicken thigh marinade infused with coconut milk.

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out this crockpot butter chicken recipe or cheesy chicken noodle soup. You can also explore harissa marinated chicken skewers for a different flavor profile.