Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Drying the chicken helps create a crispy sear when cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes or until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side up, and spoon the sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the chicken cook for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Optional Sauce Thickening

6. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to form a slurry. Add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking and stir until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and plate it. Drizzle the sauce generously over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.