Soy Sauce and Brown Sugar Glazed Chicken

This dish features tender chicken thighs marinated in a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce and brown sugar, creating a beautifully caramelized glaze. The addition of garlic and ginger adds depth, while green onions provide a fresh finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe balances traditional Asian flavors with a touch of creativity, ensuring a satisfying meal that respects dietary needs.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
5. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, for about 5 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Flip the chicken and pour the reserved marinade over the thighs. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.