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How to Make Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Legs with Roasted Vegetables
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. This will make cleanup easier and prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Soy Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and sesame oil (if using). Season the glaze with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Legs
Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the glaze adhere better. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper, then place the chicken legs on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
Pour about half of the honey soy glaze over the chicken legs, using a brush or spoon to coat each leg evenly. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting during roasting.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
In a separate bowl, toss the cubed potatoes, carrot slices, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables out on the other side of the baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer for even roasting.
Step 5: Roast the Chicken and Vegetables
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized. Halfway through the cooking time, baste the chicken legs with the remaining honey soy glaze for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful glossy finish.
If the chicken is browning too quickly but isn’t fully cooked yet, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken and vegetables are fully cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juiciness. Serve the honey soy glazed chicken legs alongside the roasted vegetables, and drizzle any extra glaze from the pan over the top for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Legs with Roasted Vegetables
- Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken legs work best for this recipe because the skin crisps up while the meat stays juicy. If you prefer boneless chicken, adjust the cooking time as boneless chicken cooks faster.
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or cauliflower. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even roasting.
- Add a Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey soy glaze or toss the vegetables with a little chili powder or cayenne pepper before roasting.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the honey soy glaze and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Let the chicken sit in the glaze for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor. You can also prep the vegetables earlier in the day and roast them when ready.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Legs with Roasted Vegetables is a winning combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the honey and the saltiness of the soy sauce come together to create a glaze that perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken legs. The roasted vegetables add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor, making every bite feel balanced and hearty.
This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make, with minimal prep and cleanup required. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste and made with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this honey soy glazed chicken and roasted vegetable combo is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Enjoy this flavorful dish as a part of your next family meal or special dinner!
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