Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. If you’re using chicken thighs, trim off any excess fat. Season both sides of the chicken thighs (or breasts) with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and prepare it for the glaze.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Honey Hoisin Sauce

In the same pan, reduce the heat to low. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing them for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the hoisin sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir everything together to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sauce. Coat the chicken evenly in the glaze, spooning the sauce over the chicken as it simmers for an additional 2-3 minutes. Let the sauce reduce a little more until it becomes sticky and glossy, adhering nicely to the chicken.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully coated and the sauce is thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Transfer the chicken to serving plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pan. Garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro or green onions, if desired. Serve the sticky honey hoisin chicken immediately with your favorite side dishes.