Honey mustard chicken thighs offer a quick and easy way to enjoy a deliciously savory yet sweet meal that the whole family will love. With a handful of ingredients, this dish can be on the table in under an hour. The honey and mustard marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy, sweet flavor, while the garlic and onion granules add depth to the taste. If you’re looking for an easy dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying, this is the perfect recipe.

Honey Mustard Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs recipe is incredibly simple and uses just a few ingredients, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The chicken thighs bake up perfectly juicy, with a delicious crispy skin and a tangy honey mustard glaze that’s hard to resist. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to clean up afterward!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ pounds chicken thighs (about 5 to 7 thighs)
1 ½ tablespoons whole grain mustard (or Dijon mustard)
⅓ cup honey
½ tablespoon garlic granules
½ tablespoon onion granules
2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
⅓ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix together garlic granules, onion granules, red chili flakes (if using), salt, black pepper, honey, mustard, and olive oil (or melted butter). Season the chicken thighs with this mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish, skin side down. Pour the remaining marinade from the bowl over the chicken thighs.
Bake:
Bake the chicken in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Halfway through, flip the chicken to ensure an even cook. The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the Chicken:
After baking, let the chicken thighs rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Spicy Version: Add more red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts, slice them lengthwise to ensure they cook faster and soak up more of the marinade.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave if you’re in a rush.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Slice the breasts in half lengthwise to ensure they cook through faster.

2. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, you can increase the amount of red chili flakes or add hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.

3. Can I use a different mustard?

Dijon mustard works well if you prefer a milder taste, but whole grain mustard adds a nice texture and tangy flavor.

4. Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives to honey for a different sweetness.

5. What can I serve with these chicken thighs?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. It also goes great with rice or quinoa.

6. How can I make the chicken skin extra crispy?

To get extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and bake it just before serving for an easy dinner.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free mustard and ensure your other ingredients are free from gluten.

9. Can I double this recipe for a bigger crowd?

Absolutely! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and space the chicken pieces out properly in the baking dish.

10. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Simply swap the butter for olive oil and ensure the mustard is dairy-free for a completely dairy-free dish.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them a versatile meal that everyone will enjoy. They’re simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Whether you’re making it for your family or serving guests, this dish is sure to impress.