Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, sesame oil, and black pepper.
Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish or aluminum tray, and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is well coated.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, basting with the marinade halfway through, until the thighs are cooked through and the skin is caramelized and sticky.
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute chicken breasts if you prefer white meat; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent drying out. For a deeper, smokier flavor, try grilling the chicken thighs on a barbecue instead of baking. If you’re looking to cut down on sodium, use a low-sodium soy sauce. Experiment with adding a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to the marinade for a hint of tanginess.
