These tender, juicy honey mustard chicken thighs are a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying dinner, they pair wonderfully with vegetables or grains. This simple, one-pan dish is packed with protein and nutrients, making it ideal for weeknight meals or casual entertaining.
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
- Marinate for Depth of Flavor: Allow the chicken thighs to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For even cooking and a beautiful sear, cook the chicken thighs in a cast-iron skillet.
- Double the Sauce: Make extra honey mustard sauce to drizzle over rice, vegetables, or a side salad.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Crispy Skin: For crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This honey mustard chicken thigh recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to make, healthy, and budget-friendly. The balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard elevates simple chicken thighs into a gourmet dish. Plus, the minimal ingredients and easy cleanup make it perfect for busy nights. Whether served with roasted veggies, quinoa, or a crisp side salad, this dish is versatile and comforting.
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
A sweet and tangy honey mustard chicken thigh recipe that’s healthy, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless)
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard (if using), minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 4–5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For extra-crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve with a drizzle of pan juices or reserved marinade and your favorite sides.
Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken.
- For a glossy finish, baste the chicken with the sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 399Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 19gCholesterol 166mgSodium 547mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 1gSugar 13gProtein 31g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes:
- Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs yield the juiciest results, but boneless skinless thighs work well for a lighter option.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and caramelization; opt for raw or organic honey if possible.
- Dijon Mustard: The tangy, smooth flavor of Dijon mustard is key. Whole-grain mustard can be added for texture.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the savory profile.
- Olive Oil: Helps to emulsify the sauce and adds a rich, fruity note.
- Paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika adds depth and a hint of spice.
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens the dish and balances the sweetness.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Protein Substitutions: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Vegan Version: Replace honey with maple syrup and use tofu or seitan instead of chicken.
- Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Herbaceous Additions: Sprinkle fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley over the finished dish for a fresh, herbal kick.
- Sauce Variations: Mix in a tablespoon of soy sauce for umami or a splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place cooled chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
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