Caramelized Baked Chicken

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
   • Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Caramel Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
   • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Sear the chicken thighs, skin side down, until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side).
   • Remove excess fat from the skillet.
5. Coat with Caramel Sauce:
   • Pour the prepared caramel sauce over the seared chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
6. Bake:
   • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste Occasionally:
   • While baking, baste the chicken with the caramel sauce every 10 minutes to enhance flavor and keep it moist.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven.
   • Garnish with sesame seeds (if desired) and fresh cilantro.
9. Serve Warm:
   • Serve the caramelized baked chicken over steamed rice or with your favorite side dishes.
   • Drizzle any remaining caramel sauce from the skillet over the chicken before serving.

Enjoy this delectable Caramelized Baked Chicken with its savory and sweet flavor profile that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!