Creating Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs is straightforward when you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help them brown beautifully.
3. Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the Skillet: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot.
5. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs, skin-side down, in the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip the thighs and sear for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
6. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger (if using).
7. Add the Sauce: Pour the honey garlic mixture over the chicken thighs in the skillet, ensuring they are well coated.
8. Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
9. Glaze the Chicken: Halfway through the baking process, baste the chicken with the sauce to enhance the flavor.
10. Garnish: Once fully cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

These simple steps will lead you to an incredible meal that is sure to impress!