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Easy Crispy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs

easy crispy honey mustard baked chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw or wildflower preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat dry the chicken thighs thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Rub gently to coat.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth.
  5. Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet (optional). Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the rack or directly on the baking sheet, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Bake the chicken uncovered for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush a generous layer of the honey mustard glaze over the skin.
  8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat the chicken skin very dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Brush the honey mustard glaze partway through baking to prevent burning and achieve a sticky, caramelized finish. Use a wire rack if possible to allow air circulation under the skin. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to avoid burning. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey mustard chicken, baked chicken thighs, crispy chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, honey mustard glaze, chicken recipe