Chili Jam Chicken Glaze

This Chili Jam Chicken Glaze recipe is the ultimate fusion of sweet and savory, designed for those busy weeknights when you still crave a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal. By using bone-in chicken thighs, you ensure the meat remains incredibly juicy while the skin transforms into a sticky, caramelized treat thanks to the aromatic chili jam and honey glaze.

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What makes this dish truly stand out is how the simple combination of garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar interacts with the fruitiness of the chili jam. As it roasts, the glaze thickens and clings to the chicken, creating those irresistible charred edges that pack a punch of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.2 kg)
• 100 g (about 1/3 cup) chili jam
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• Optional garnish: 2 spring onions (thinly sliced), 1 red chili (thinly sliced), fresh cilantro leaves, toasted sesame seeds

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and arrange them skin-side up on the prepared tray. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 3

In a small bowl, whisk together the chili jam, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger until smooth.

Step 4

Brush a generous layer of the chili jam glaze over each chicken thigh, reserving about one-third of the glaze for later.

Step 5

Roast the chicken in the oven for 30 minutes.

Step 6

Remove the tray from the oven. Brush the remaining glaze over the chicken thighs.

Step 7

Return to the oven and roast for an additional 5–8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F) and the glaze is caramelized and sticky.

Step 8

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with spring onions, chili slices, cilantro, and sesame seeds if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 75°C (165°F) without overcooking. Patting the skin completely dry with paper towels before starting is the secret to getting the glaze to adhere and the skin to crisp up properly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer extra heat, feel free to stir a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce into the glaze. You can also substitute the thighs with chicken drumsticks or wings, adjusting the roasting time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked through.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these sticky chicken thighs over a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the extra glaze. A side of roasted vegetables or a crisp, refreshing cilantro and cucumber salad adds a great balance to the sweet and spicy flavors.

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Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or simply upgrading your weeknight dinner rotation, these chili jam glazed chicken thighs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of simple preparation and bold flavor makes this dish a reliable favorite for any home cook.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What cuts of chicken work best for this glaze?

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs provide the best balance of flavor and juiciness, holding the glaze well during roasting.

→ Can the glaze be made spicier?

Yes, adding sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze increases the heat without overpowering the sweet notes.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this chicken?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad complement the rich glaze and tender chicken.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.

→ Can I substitute other chicken parts for thighs?

Drumsticks or wings can be used, but adjust cooking times to ensure even cooking and glaze caramelization.