Cayenne Spiced Honey-Glazed Chicken Thighs

This dish features succulent chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and spicy honey-cayenne sauce, perfectly balancing traditional flavors with a creative kick. The heat from the cayenne pepper complements the natural sweetness of the honey, creating a delightful contrast that is both savory and slightly sweet. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a weeknight dinner, catering to those looking for a flavorful yet easy-to-make main course.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, cayenne pepper, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey-cayenne mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
6. Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.