If you have a craving for something that’s juicy, flavorful, and packed with a perfect balance of sweet and savory, you are going to fall head over heels for this Sticky Crispy Chicken Thighs Burger with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe. Imagine succulent chicken thighs enveloped in a crunchy coating, generously glazed with a luscious honey soy sauce that tingles your taste buds and leaves you wanting more. It’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level, perfect for dinner nights when you want to impress without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a vital role in creating the layers of flavor and texture that make this burger unforgettable. From the tenderizing buttermilk marinade to the crispy coating and that sticky honey soy glaze, every element is essential.
- 2 boneless chicken thighs: The star of the dish, juicy and tender with just the right amount of fat for flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a gentle tang to balance the spices.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the glaze.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings smoky warmth and a hint of color to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savoriness without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives a gentle, pleasant heat that wakes up your palate.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild peppery kick balancing the sweet glaze.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base for a crispy, golden coating on the chicken.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Helps achieve that ultra-crisp texture everyone loves in fried chicken.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Lightens the flour coating for an airy crunch.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Brings natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts the soy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to the glaze.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A fragrant, nutty note that makes the glaze irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds brightness and warmth to the sticky sauce.
- 2 buns: Soft and fluffy, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
- Lettuce leaves: Provide a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- Sliced pickles: Add a tart contrast that balances the sweet glaze.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness and a touch of tanginess.
How to Make Sticky Crispy Chicken Thighs Burger with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken thighs beautifully and infuses each bite with a subtle tang and depth of flavor. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for that extra tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating
While the chicken chills, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder in a separate bowl. This trio is the secret to the incredible crunch you’re after. The cornstarch lightens the coating while the baking powder helps create that airy, crispy crust that snaps delightfully when you bite in.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour the vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pan and heat it on medium-high. You want enough oil to almost submerge the chicken for even frying. The oil should reach around 350°F (175°C) before you start frying—hot enough to cook through without becoming greasy.
Step 4: Coat and Fry the Chicken
Remove each marinated thigh from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the chicken is covered evenly for maximum crispness. Carefully lower each piece into the bubbling oil and fry for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. If your pan isn’t large enough, fry in batches so you don’t overcrowd and lose that perfect crunch.
Step 5: Make the Honey Soy Glaze
While the chicken fries, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger in a small saucepan. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently until it simmers. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until thick and sticky—a glossy sauce that adds an exciting dimension of flavor with every drizzle.
Step 6: Glaze the Chicken
When the chicken is cooked, drain it on paper towels to get rid of excess oil. While still hot, generously drizzle the honey soy glaze all over each crispy thigh. This step is magical as the warm glaze clings to the crunchy coating, creating that irresistible sticky texture that defines this burger.
Step 7: Assemble the Burger
Lightly toast the buns until just golden and spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves. Layer with crisp lettuce and tangy sliced pickles for contrast. Place one sticky crispy chicken thigh on each bun, then crown with the top halves. Press gently, serve immediately, and enjoy the perfect bite of sweet, savory, crunchy heaven.
How to Serve Sticky Crispy Chicken Thighs Burger with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your burger experience. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the glazed chicken adds a slight nuttiness and texture that looks beautiful. Thinly sliced scallions or fresh cilantro leaves bring brightness and fresh herbal notes that complement the sticky honey soy glaze wonderfully.
Side Dishes
The Sticky Crispy Chicken Thighs Burger with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe pairs beautifully with classic sides like crispy fries or sweet potato wedges to keep things comforting. For a healthier twist, try a crunchy Asian slaw tossed with a sesame dressing or chilled cucumber salad to refresh the palate between bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the burger open-faced on a wooden board adorned with small bowls of extra honey soy glaze for dipping. Add a handful of pickled vegetables on the side for color and zing. You could also miniaturize the recipe into sliders for a crowd-pleasing party appetizer that lets everyone enjoy this delicious flavor combo in a bite-sized form.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the unassembled chicken thighs and buns separately in airtight containers to maintain crispness and freshness. The chicken will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 days, preserving the juicy texture and sticky glaze.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs once cooled completely, preferably without the glaze to prevent sogginess. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap then foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating and glaze again for best results.
Reheating
To reheat without sacrificing crunch, warm the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the crust soggy. Once hot and crispy again, toss or brush the glaze over the chicken before assembling your burger.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer more juiciness and flavor, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook to keep them tender, and you might want to marinate a bit longer for extra moisture.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Yes, marinating in buttermilk with spices is key to tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with flavor. Skipping this step may result in a less juicy and less flavorful chicken.
Can I make the honey soy glaze ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the glaze a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Just warm it gently before tossing it with the fried chicken to bring back that luscious sticky texture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk if I don’t have any?
Simply mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This homemade buttermilk substitute works perfectly in tenderizing the chicken.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?
The heat level is mild thanks to just 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can easily tailor it by adding more for extra kick or omitting it entirely if you prefer no spice. The flavor balance remains fantastic either way!
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into the Sticky Crispy Chicken Thighs Burger with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe—each mouthful bursting with crispy texture, juicy chicken, and a sticky-sweet glaze that dances on your tongue. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a go-to favorite whether for weeknight dinners or casual weekend feasts. Don’t wait to make this deliciously fun burger for yourself and your loved ones; it’s truly a taste sensation you’ll want again and again!
Print
Sticky Crispy Chicken Thighs Burger with Honey Soy Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 30m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sticky Crispy Kipburger recipe features marinated boneless chicken thighs coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried to golden perfection. The crispy chicken is tossed in a sticky, flavorful sauce made with honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and fresh ginger, then served on toasted buns with lettuce, pickles, and mayonnaise for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 2 boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Frying and Sauce
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Assembly
- 2 buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced pickles
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Submerge the boneless chicken thighs completely in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder to prepare the crisp coating.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a deep pan or skillet and heat over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C), suitable for frying.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the prepared flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, crispy crust.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken thighs into the hot oil. Fry each side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Prepare the Sticky Sauce: While frying, combine honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger in a small saucepan. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally until the mixture begins to simmer.
- Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly to a sticky consistency.
- Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Coat with Sauce: While the chicken is still hot, drizzle the sticky sauce over each piece, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the buns in a pan or oven until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Burger Base: Spread mayonnaise evenly on the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
- Add Lettuce and Pickles: Layer lettuce leaves and sliced pickles on top of the mayonnaise on each bun.
- Place the Chicken: Carefully set one sticky, crispy chicken thigh on top of the pickles and lettuce on each bun.
- Complete the Burger: Top with the other half of the toasted buns and gently press down to secure.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the chicken remains crispy and hot to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer (up to 2 hours) deepens flavor and tenderness.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for perfect frying results.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains crispy.
- The sticky sauce can be adjusted by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for tang.
- Leftover sauce can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
