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Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs Juicy and Flavorful Meal

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- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish When I make honey mustard chicken thighs, I love how simple yet rich the flavors are. The main ingredients are easy to find and make a big impact. The chicken thighs have skin that crisps up nicely. The honey and Dijon mustard create a sweet and tangy sauce that brings everything together. I always start with the chicken. Bone-in thighs stay juicy and are full of flavor. Honey is my go-to for sweetness. It balances the sharpness of the mustard. Dijon mustard gives a nice kick. Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while cooking. For spices, garlic adds depth. Dried thyme adds a touch of earthiness. Paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper are key for seasoning. I prefer to use fresh parsley as a garnish. It adds a pop of color and fresh taste. This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. The glossy honey mustard sauce coats the chicken perfectly. I often serve this dish with sides like roasted veggies or rice. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - In a medium bowl, mix together: - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste This sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick to the chicken. Make sure it is well mixed. - Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. - Season both sides with salt and pepper. - In a large oven-safe skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. - Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. - Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown. This step is key to get that crispy skin. - Carefully flip the chicken thighs over. - Pour the honey mustard sauce over them, coating them well. - Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. - Bake for 25-30 minutes. - Check that the chicken is cooked through. - The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy. - How to achieve golden skin To get that lovely golden skin, dry your chicken thighs well with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Place the chicken in skin-side down. Let it sear without moving it for about five minutes. This will give your chicken a great crust. - Avoiding overcooking Keep an eye on the temperature. You want the internal temp to reach 165°F. If you leave it too long, it may dry out. Use a meat thermometer for best results. After baking, let the chicken rest for five minutes. This helps keep it juicy. - Suggested spices for extra flavor Beyond the basic spices, try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat. You can also use rosemary or oregano for a nice twist. These spices blend well with the honey and mustard. - Marinading tips For deeper flavor, let the chicken sit in the honey mustard mix for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it overnight in the fridge. This adds more taste and tenderness. - Best sides to pair with honey mustard chicken Serve your chicken with roasted vegetables like carrots and potatoes. A fresh green salad also goes well with it. For a heartier option, try creamy mashed potatoes. These sides balance the sweet and tangy chicken perfectly. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor of your honey mustard sauce significantly compared to dried alternatives. Rest Your Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey in the marinade or add a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick. Perfect Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a perfectly crispy skin that locks in juices. {{image_2}} You can switch up the flavors in this recipe. For mustards, try whole grain or spicy brown. Each kind gives a unique twist. If you want to change the honey, maple syrup works well. It adds a different sweetness. If you prefer grilling, it’s simple. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down first. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. Then flip and brush with the honey mustard sauce. Grill until the chicken reaches 165°F. For a slow cooker method, season the chicken thighs as before. Place them in the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken will be tender and full of flavor. To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free mustard. Most honeys are gluten-free, too. Always check labels to be sure. For a low-sugar version, use less honey or a sugar-free alternative. You can also mix in some apple cider vinegar for tang. This keeps the flavor while reducing sugar. After enjoying your honey mustard chicken thighs, store any leftovers properly. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can refrigerate the chicken for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. To enjoy your chicken again, reheating is key. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option. Heat it in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking. Leftover honey mustard chicken thighs last three days in the fridge. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, it's best to throw it out. Keeping track of storage times helps you enjoy your meals safely. You can pair honey mustard chicken thighs with many sides. I love serving them with: - Steamed broccoli - Roasted sweet potatoes - Garlic mashed potatoes - A fresh garden salad - Rice or quinoa These sides balance the dish's flavors and give you a full meal. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster, so adjust the baking time. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). You can tell chicken thighs are cooked when: - The juices run clear when pierced - The skin is golden brown - The meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) A meat thermometer is the best tool for this. It ensures your chicken is safe to eat and juicy. Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Marinate the thighs overnight for more flavor. Just remember to cook them the next day. Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard. The flavor will change a bit, but it will still taste great. You can also mix honey with a little vinegar for a tangy twist. In this article, I covered how to make honey mustard chicken thighs. You learned about the main ingredients, from chicken to sauce, and how to prepare them step-by-step. I shared tips on searing, flavors, and serving suggestions. I also outlined variations and storage tips for your leftovers. This dish is easy to make and delicious. Enjoy cooking it for family and friends!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a juicy and flavorful meal? Honey mustard chicken thighs are the dish you need! In this article, I’ll guide you through simple steps to make this tasty meal at home. With just a few key ingredients and easy techniques, you’ll serve a mouthwatering dinner that impresses. Get ready to elevate your cooking with recipes and tips that make every bite unforgettable! Dive in to discover the magic of honey mustard chicken!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates a sweet and tangy glaze that is irresistible.
  3. Juicy Chicken: Baking the chicken thighs ensures they remain moist and tender, with crispy skin.
  4. Versatile Dish: This dish pairs well with various sides, from roasted vegetables to rice, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Spices and Herbs

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

– Fresh parsley for garnish

When I make honey mustard chicken thighs, I love how simple yet rich the flavors are. The main ingredients are easy to find and make a big impact. The chicken thighs have skin that crisps up nicely. The honey and Dijon mustard create a sweet and tangy sauce that brings everything together.

I always start with the chicken. Bone-in thighs stay juicy and are full of flavor. Honey is my go-to for sweetness. It balances the sharpness of the mustard. Dijon mustard gives a nice kick. Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while cooking.

For spices, garlic adds depth. Dried thyme adds a touch of earthiness. Paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper are key for seasoning. I prefer to use fresh parsley as a garnish. It adds a pop of color and fresh taste.

This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. The glossy honey mustard sauce coats the chicken perfectly. I often serve this dish with sides like roasted veggies or rice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

– In a medium bowl, mix together:

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

This sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick to the chicken. Make sure it is well mixed.

Cooking Method

– Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

– Season both sides with salt and pepper.

– In a large oven-safe skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat.

– Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet.

– Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown.

This step is key to get that crispy skin.

– Carefully flip the chicken thighs over.

– Pour the honey mustard sauce over them, coating them well.

– Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.

Cooking Time

– Bake for 25-30 minutes.

– Check that the chicken is cooked through.

– The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Sear

– How to achieve golden skin

To get that lovely golden skin, dry your chicken thighs well with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Place the chicken in skin-side down. Let it sear without moving it for about five minutes. This will give your chicken a great crust.

– Avoiding overcooking

Keep an eye on the temperature. You want the internal temp to reach 165°F. If you leave it too long, it may dry out. Use a meat thermometer for best results. After baking, let the chicken rest for five minutes. This helps keep it juicy.

Flavor Enhancements

– Suggested spices for extra flavor

Beyond the basic spices, try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat. You can also use rosemary or oregano for a nice twist. These spices blend well with the honey and mustard.

– Marinading tips

For deeper flavor, let the chicken sit in the honey mustard mix for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it overnight in the fridge. This adds more taste and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

– Best sides to pair with honey mustard chicken

Serve your chicken with roasted vegetables like carrots and potatoes. A fresh green salad also goes well with it. For a heartier option, try creamy mashed potatoes. These sides balance the sweet and tangy chicken perfectly.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor of your honey mustard sauce significantly compared to dried alternatives.
  2. Rest Your Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat.
  3. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey in the marinade or add a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick.
  4. Perfect Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a perfectly crispy skin that locks in juices.

Variations

Ingredients Swaps

You can switch up the flavors in this recipe. For mustards, try whole grain or spicy brown. Each kind gives a unique twist. If you want to change the honey, maple syrup works well. It adds a different sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

If you prefer grilling, it’s simple. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down first. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. Then flip and brush with the honey mustard sauce. Grill until the chicken reaches 165°F.

For a slow cooker method, season the chicken thighs as before. Place them in the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken will be tender and full of flavor.

Dietary Adjustments

To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free mustard. Most honeys are gluten-free, too. Always check labels to be sure.

For a low-sugar version, use less honey or a sugar-free alternative. You can also mix in some apple cider vinegar for tang. This keeps the flavor while reducing sugar.

Storage Info

Leftover Storage

After enjoying your honey mustard chicken thighs, store any leftovers properly. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can refrigerate the chicken for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Instructions

To enjoy your chicken again, reheating is key. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option. Heat it in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking.

Shelf Life

Leftover honey mustard chicken thighs last three days in the fridge. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to throw it out. Keeping track of storage times helps you enjoy your meals safely.

FAQs

What can I serve with honey mustard chicken thighs?

You can pair honey mustard chicken thighs with many sides. I love serving them with:

– Steamed broccoli

– Roasted sweet potatoes

– Garlic mashed potatoes

– A fresh garden salad

– Rice or quinoa

These sides balance the dish’s flavors and give you a full meal.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster, so adjust the baking time. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

How do I know when chicken thighs are fully cooked?

You can tell chicken thighs are cooked when:

– The juices run clear when pierced

– The skin is golden brown

– The meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)

A meat thermometer is the best tool for this. It ensures your chicken is safe to eat and juicy.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Marinate the thighs overnight for more flavor. Just remember to cook them the next day.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard. The flavor will change a bit, but it will still taste great. You can also mix honey with a little vinegar for a tangy twist.

In this article, I covered how to make honey mustard chicken thighs. You learned about the main ingredients, from chicken to sauce, and how to prepare them step-by-step. I shared tips on searing, flavors, and serving suggestions. I also outlined variations and storage tips for your leftovers.

This dish is easy to make and delicious. Enjoy cooking it for family and friend

- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish When I make honey mustard chicken thighs, I love how simple yet rich the flavors are. The main ingredients are easy to find and make a big impact. The chicken thighs have skin that crisps up nicely. The honey and Dijon mustard create a sweet and tangy sauce that brings everything together. I always start with the chicken. Bone-in thighs stay juicy and are full of flavor. Honey is my go-to for sweetness. It balances the sharpness of the mustard. Dijon mustard gives a nice kick. Olive oil keeps the chicken moist while cooking. For spices, garlic adds depth. Dried thyme adds a touch of earthiness. Paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Salt and pepper are key for seasoning. I prefer to use fresh parsley as a garnish. It adds a pop of color and fresh taste. This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing. The glossy honey mustard sauce coats the chicken perfectly. I often serve this dish with sides like roasted veggies or rice. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - In a medium bowl, mix together: - 1/4 cup honey - 1/4 cup Dijon mustard - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste This sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick to the chicken. Make sure it is well mixed. - Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. - Season both sides with salt and pepper. - In a large oven-safe skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. - Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. - Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown. This step is key to get that crispy skin. - Carefully flip the chicken thighs over. - Pour the honey mustard sauce over them, coating them well. - Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. - Bake for 25-30 minutes. - Check that the chicken is cooked through. - The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy. - How to achieve golden skin To get that lovely golden skin, dry your chicken thighs well with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Place the chicken in skin-side down. Let it sear without moving it for about five minutes. This will give your chicken a great crust. - Avoiding overcooking Keep an eye on the temperature. You want the internal temp to reach 165°F. If you leave it too long, it may dry out. Use a meat thermometer for best results. After baking, let the chicken rest for five minutes. This helps keep it juicy. - Suggested spices for extra flavor Beyond the basic spices, try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat. You can also use rosemary or oregano for a nice twist. These spices blend well with the honey and mustard. - Marinading tips For deeper flavor, let the chicken sit in the honey mustard mix for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it overnight in the fridge. This adds more taste and tenderness. - Best sides to pair with honey mustard chicken Serve your chicken with roasted vegetables like carrots and potatoes. A fresh green salad also goes well with it. For a heartier option, try creamy mashed potatoes. These sides balance the sweet and tangy chicken perfectly. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor of your honey mustard sauce significantly compared to dried alternatives. Rest Your Chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain moisture, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the honey in the marinade or add a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick. Perfect Searing: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken for a perfectly crispy skin that locks in juices. {{image_2}} You can switch up the flavors in this recipe. For mustards, try whole grain or spicy brown. Each kind gives a unique twist. If you want to change the honey, maple syrup works well. It adds a different sweetness. If you prefer grilling, it’s simple. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down first. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. Then flip and brush with the honey mustard sauce. Grill until the chicken reaches 165°F. For a slow cooker method, season the chicken thighs as before. Place them in the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The chicken will be tender and full of flavor. To make this dish gluten-free, choose a gluten-free mustard. Most honeys are gluten-free, too. Always check labels to be sure. For a low-sugar version, use less honey or a sugar-free alternative. You can also mix in some apple cider vinegar for tang. This keeps the flavor while reducing sugar. After enjoying your honey mustard chicken thighs, store any leftovers properly. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh longer. You can refrigerate the chicken for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. To enjoy your chicken again, reheating is key. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option. Heat it in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking. Leftover honey mustard chicken thighs last three days in the fridge. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or looks strange, it's best to throw it out. Keeping track of storage times helps you enjoy your meals safely. You can pair honey mustard chicken thighs with many sides. I love serving them with: - Steamed broccoli - Roasted sweet potatoes - Garlic mashed potatoes - A fresh garden salad - Rice or quinoa These sides balance the dish's flavors and give you a full meal. Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster, so adjust the baking time. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). You can tell chicken thighs are cooked when: - The juices run clear when pierced - The skin is golden brown - The meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) A meat thermometer is the best tool for this. It ensures your chicken is safe to eat and juicy. Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Marinate the thighs overnight for more flavor. Just remember to cook them the next day. Leftovers can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard. The flavor will change a bit, but it will still taste great. You can also mix honey with a little vinegar for a tangy twist. In this article, I covered how to make honey mustard chicken thighs. You learned about the main ingredients, from chicken to sauce, and how to prepare them step-by-step. I shared tips on searing, flavors, and serving suggestions. I also outlined variations and storage tips for your leftovers. This dish is easy to make and delicious. Enjoy cooking it for family and friends!

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

A delicious and easy recipe for chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce.
Print Recipe Save Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 0.25 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a medium bowl, mix together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  • In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown.
  • Carefully flip the chicken thighs over, then pour the honey mustard sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Notes

Let the chicken rest before serving for better flavor.
Keyword chicken, easy recipe, honey mustard

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