Spicy Honey Peanut Baked Chicken Thighs are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. The origins of this dish can be traced to the fusion of Asian-inspired flavors and American comfort food. The combination of spicy honey, crunchy peanuts, and succulent chicken creates a symphony of taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Chicken thighs are known for their rich, juicy texture, making them the perfect choice for this recipe. Unlike chicken breasts, which can sometimes be dry, thighs retain moisture and soak up the delicious marinade, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. The addition of honey adds a natural sweetness, while the peanuts provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.

Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients:

4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste for desired spiciness)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
1/4 cup roasted peanuts (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, peanut butter, sriracha sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, olive oil, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Ensure that the peanut butter is fully incorporated into the marinade.
Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you prefer a slightly crispy skin, you can set the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken thighs from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish.
Add the Peanuts: Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts evenly over the chicken thighs.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Serve: Serve the Spicy Honey Peanut Baked Chicken Thighs with your favorite side dishes, such as steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Tips and Variations

How to Infuse Flavor into Chicken Thighs?

Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs overnight. This allows the marinade to penetrate deep into the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Score the Skin: Lightly scoring the skin of the chicken thighs with a knife helps the marinade seep into the meat and promotes even cooking.
Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, sear the chicken thighs in a hot cast iron skillet before baking. This will create a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Is It Better to Fry or Bake Chicken Thighs?

Baking vs. Frying: While frying chicken thighs can result in a crispy exterior, baking them offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Baking allows the chicken to cook evenly and retain its moisture, making it a preferred method for this recipe.

Variations and Substitutions

Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can slow-cook the marinated chicken thighs. Place the chicken and marinade in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The result will be tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken.
Nut-Free Version: For those with peanut allergies, substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter and omit the roasted peanuts.
Spicier Version: Increase the amount of sriracha and crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. You can also drizzle hot honey over the chicken before serving for an extra layer of heat.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on one chicken thigh):

Calories: 320
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 420mg
Sugar: 12g
Fiber: 1g

This dish is a great source of protein and healthy fats, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. The honey provides natural sweetness, while the peanuts add protein and crunch.

If you’re looking for a dish that combines bold flavors with easy preparation, Spicy Honey Peanut Baked Chicken Thighs should be at the top of your list. This recipe is a delicious blend of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Don’t forget to try out some of the variations mentioned above, and feel free to experiment with your own twists. We love hearing from you, so be sure to leave a comment below and share your experience with this recipe. And if you enjoyed this dish, check out our other chicken recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes, like our Best Chicken Thighs Recipes collection. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips delivered straight to your inbox.

Spicy Honey Peanut Baked Chicken Thighs