Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sweet and Savory Hoisin Chicken Thighs?
They are juicy, bone-in chicken thighs coated in a rich spice rub and finished with a sweet and savory hoisin glaze.
How many chicken thighs are needed for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 16 bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs.
What spices are in the dry rub?
The rub includes five-spice powder, Hungarian paprika, kosher salt, minced garlic, pepper, and dry mustard.
How do I make the hoisin glaze?
Combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, dark sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, and five-spice powder.
What is the total serving size?
This recipe is designed to provide 8 servings.
How long do I grill the chicken initially?
Grill the chicken covered for 4 to 6 minutes on the first side until lightly browned.
What is the total grilling time after flipping?
After flipping, grill for an additional 15 to 20 minutes on low heat.
How often should I brush the chicken with the glaze?
Brush the chicken generously with the hoisin glaze every 5 minutes during the final stage of grilling.
What type of grill heat is recommended?
Preheat to medium heat for the initial sear, then lower to a low setting for the remainder of the cooking time.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 275 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides 18.75g of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
Each serving contains 20g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in these chicken thighs?
There are 8.75g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use skinless chicken thighs?
While the recipe specifies skin-on for flavor and moisture, you can use skinless, though cooking times may vary.
What ingredients are used for the ginger preparation?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of minced ginger for the glaze.
Is Hungarian paprika different from regular paprika?
Yes, Hungarian paprika is known for its rich flavor profile and is a key component of the dry rub for this recipe.
What does five-spice powder add to the recipe?
It provides a complex, aromatic Asian-inspired flavor profile to both the rub and the glaze.
How do I know when the chicken is finished?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink at the center and reaches a safe internal temperature.
Why should I let the chicken rest after grilling?
Resting for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist.
Can I substitute the honey in the glaze?
While honey is specified for its sweetness and texture, you could use brown sugar or maple syrup as a substitute.
What are the primary flavors of this dish?
The dish features a balance of savory five-spice, salty soy sauce, and sweet hoisin and honey.
What type of oil is used in the glaze?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of dark sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
How much hoisin sauce is required?
You will need 1 cup of hoisin sauce for the glaze.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, with 8 servings and 16 pieces of chicken, it is ideal for family gatherings or cookouts.
What side dishes go well with these chicken thighs?
It is recommended to serve this dish alongside steamed rice and fresh vegetables.
Can I use this recipe for chicken wings?
Yes, the rub and glaze would work well on wings, though grilling times would be significantly shorter.
How much salt is in the dry rub?
The spice rub uses 2 tablespoons of kosher salt.
Does the recipe use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe uses minced garlic in both the dry rub (1 tbsp) and the glaze (2 tsp).
What is the role of soy sauce in this recipe?
The 1/4 cup of soy sauce adds saltiness and depth of flavor to the hoisin glaze.
Is the chicken grilled covered or uncovered?
The recipe instructs to grill the chicken covered to ensure even cooking and heat retention.