Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs Recipe
Looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe? Look no further than honey mustard chicken thighs. This recipe combines the tangy sweetness of honey mustard with juicy chicken thighs for a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the chicken:
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the oven and prepare the chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Brush each thigh with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bake the chicken
Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
Variations
While this honey mustard chicken thigh recipe is delicious as is, you can always experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own. Here are a few variations to try:
Spicy Honey Mustard:
If you like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herb-infused Honey Mustard:
For extra herbaceous flavor, add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the marinade.
Maple Mustard Glaze:
Swap out the honey for maple syrup to create a slightly different flavor profile. The combination of maple and mustard adds a unique twist to the dish.
Tips
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1 hour. However, if you’re short on time, even a 15-30 minute marinade will still add some flavor.
- Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before brushing them with olive oil. This helps the skin get crispy during baking.
- For an extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken thighs for a couple of minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- This recipe works well with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, but you can also use boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Honey mustard chicken thighs are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. With a simple marinade and easy preparation, this recipe is a go-to option for any occasion. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken with its irresistibly crispy skin!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily. To prevent this, marinate them for a shorter time and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! Honey mustard chicken thighs can be grilled for a delicious smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply whisk the ingredients together and transfer it to an airtight container. Give it a good shake before using it to marinate the chicken.
Can I use a different type of mustard?
While Dijon mustard works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy mustard, to add different flavors and textures to the dish.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftover honey mustard chicken thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Now that you have this delicious honey mustard chicken thighs recipe, it’s time to gather the ingredients and get cooking. Enjoy the flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen, and savor each bite of this irresistible dish!
