Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Everyday Favorites

I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs for a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delightful glaze that enhances the juicy chicken thighs beautifully. It's become a staple in our household because it’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With just a few pantry ingredients, I can whip up a tantalizing dish that impresses my family every time. This meal is always met with smiles, and I enjoy experimenting with different sides to complement it.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:35:36.406Z

When I first tried making Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could create an extraordinarily flavorful result. The key is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the thighs juicy while they bake. Since then, I’ve tweaked the recipe by adding garlic and some fresh herbs for an extra depth of flavor, and it's been a game changer.

One evening, I decided to serve this dish with roasted vegetables and a side of quinoa. The combination was a hit! Everyone loved how well the honey mustard complemented the earthy flavors of the vegetables. Experimenting with sides has really helped in showcasing the versatility of this dish.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Sweet and tangy marinade that enhances the chicken's natural flavor
Simple to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings

      

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken thighs is a crucial step that enhances their flavor and tenderness. By allowing the chicken to soak in the sweet and tangy honey mustard mixture for at least 30 minutes, you're not only infusing the meat with flavor but also breaking down the proteins slightly, which helps in achieving that juicy texture. If you're in a hurry, you can even marinate them for as little as 15 minutes for a quicker version, but the longer, the better for maximum flavor absorption.

While this recipe calls for Dijon mustard, feel free to experiment with other mustard varieties such as whole grain or spicy brown for different flavor profiles. Each type of mustard will impart its unique taste to the marinade, allowing for customization that can enhance the overall dish. Additionally, if you prefer a little heat, a dash of hot sauce can be added to the marinade to elevate the flavor further.

Perfecting the Baking Process

When baking the chicken thighs, it’s important to position the oven rack in the center for even heat distribution. This ensures that the chicken cooks uniformly and helps achieve that desired crispy skin. Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of the cooking time; cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns a beautiful golden brown. If the skin isn’t crispy enough, you can switch the oven to broil for the last few minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking, which can dry it out. If you find that your chicken thighs are browning too quickly, consider loosely covering them with aluminum foil to reduce direct heat. This will help maintain moisture while still allowing the skin to crisp up during the final minutes of cooking.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake the Chicken

Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with your choice of sides.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider using apple cider vinegar in the marinade or adding some fresh thyme or rosemary. This can elevate the taste profile and offer a delightful aroma while baking.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs pair beautifully with a variety of sides that complement their sweet and savory flavor. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, make a hearty accompaniment, while a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. For a comforting starch, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious glaze.

For a more Mediterranean twist, you can serve the chicken alongside couscous or quinoa salad loaded with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese. These sides not only enhance the meal but also add a burst of color and nutrition, making the dish more visually appealing and satisfying.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe allows for easy make-ahead preparations, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The marinade can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also marinate the chicken thighs the night before and store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. This not only saves time but also deepens the flavor as they sit in the marinade longer.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat for quicker serving. If you wish to freeze the marinated chicken, do so before cooking; it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just defrost in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless thighs! Just reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes.

→ What can I serve with Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard, this recipe can be gluten-free!