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Homemade Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice photo

Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice

This Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice is bursting with bold flavors and juicy tenderness in every bite!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken thighs skin-on and bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
  • 2 cups jasmine rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with honey until smooth.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add jasmine rice, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared chicken thighs in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet skin-side up. Spread the honey butter glaze evenly over each piece. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
  6. Plate the herbed jasmine rice and top with the smoky honey butter chicken thighs. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning ensures crispy skin.
  • Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
  • Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.
  • Finely chop fresh herbs for even flavor distribution in the rice.
  • For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the spice mix.