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Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

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This baked honey mustard chicken thighs recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with crispy skin and juicy meat, ideal for quick, flavorful dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 1/4 cup (85 grams) honey
  • 1/4 cup (80 grams) Dijon mustard
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and fresh herbs if using.
  3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
  4. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  5. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up, spaced apart, and pour any leftover marinade over the top.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, checking after 30 minutes to baste with pan juices if desired. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) and the skin should be golden and caramelized.
  7. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the skin further, watching closely to prevent burning.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispier skin. Marinate at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juiciness. Optional broil step crisps skin further. Avoid overcrowding the pan for even cooking. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken thighs, honey mustard chicken, easy dinner, flavorful chicken, crispy chicken skin, weeknight meal