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Crispy Hoisin Chicken Thighs Recipe

4.2 from 25 reviews

These Crispy Hoisin Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory hoisin, honey, and sesame oil sauce, then broiled to achieve a deliciously crispy exterior with a hint of char. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 6 boneless chicken thighs
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Marinade

  • 2 cups hoisin sauce
  • 1 cup honey
  • 2 tbsps sesame oil

Garnish

  • 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced chives (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Pat the boneless chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season both sides evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
  2. Make the marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the hoisin sauce, honey, and sesame oil until well combined. Reserve 1/4 cup of this marinade separately to brush over the chicken after cooking.
  3. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place chicken and marinade in a gallon storage bag. Refrigerate to marinate for 1 to 6 hours, or for enhanced flavor, overnight.
  4. Preheat the oven: When ready to cook, set your oven’s broiler to high. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler heat source. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly brush it with a thin layer of sesame oil to prevent sticking and to add extra flavor.
  5. Broil the chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Broil the chicken for 10 to 15 minutes on one side, then flip and broil for another 10 to 15 minutes on the other side. Cook until the edges start to char slightly and the chicken is cooked through, ensuring a crispy texture.
  6. Serve: Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a serving platter. Brush the reserved marinade sauce over the top for an added glaze. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning helps achieve a crispier skin.
  • Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning, as broiler temperatures can vary.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a bright garnish, but green onions also work well.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the hoisin sauce used is gluten-free.

Keywords: hoisin chicken, crispy chicken thighs, broiled chicken, Asian chicken recipe, honey hoisin chicken, quick dinner