Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Favorites

I absolutely adore this Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs recipe! It's the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. The chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. I've experimented with different mustards and honeys, and I can confidently say that a good quality mustard really elevates the flavor profile. Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and you've got a meal that feels both indulgent and healthy.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:17:36.046Z

When I first made these Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily they came together. The sweet and tangy sauce created a nice caramelization that added depth to the dish. I always let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer will enhance the flavors even more.

Another great tip is to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs—they retain moisture better during cooking than boneless cuts, giving you that delicious juiciness with each bite. Trust me, once you try this method, you'll be hooked!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard
Juicy chicken thighs that are packed with flavor
Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner option

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

The marinating process is crucial for achieving juicy and flavorful chicken thighs. When combined, honey and Dijon mustard work wonders—honey adds sweetness while Dijon provides the tanginess that cuts through the richness of the chicken skin. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, let it sit overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring that every bite is delicious.

When marinating, try to ensure that the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. If you don’t have a resealable bag, using a shallow dish works just as well. If you notice that the thighs aren't completely submerged, flip them halfway through the marinating time to ensure even flavor distribution.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) helps achieve a perfectly golden and crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy. It’s essential to preheat your oven fully before putting the chicken in; this ensures a sear that locks in moisture. Look for a beautiful golden-brown color on the skin, which indicates that the chicken is being cooked perfectly.

Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper not only aids in easy cleanup but also helps to prevent sticking. If you find that the skin isn't browning as much as you'd like during the bake, a quick broil for the last few minutes can add that extra crisp. Just keep a close eye during this step to prevent burning!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients for Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Now that you have all the ingredients, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs:

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Chicken

Take the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy the delightful flavors of this dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try searing the chicken thighs skin-side down in a pan before baking. This will enhance the crispy skin and add depth to the dish.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider using whole grain mustard instead of Dijon for added texture and depth. Honey can also be swapped with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly alternative that still delivers sweetness, while maintaining a similar consistency when mixed in the marinade.

For an added kick, try incorporating a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the marinade. This will introduce a tangy heat that contrasts beautifully with the honey. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium soy sauce instead of salt for extra flavor without the extra sodium.

Make-Ahead Preparation and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken thighs a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Just keep the marinated chicken sealed in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. If you want to make them even further in advance, marinate and freeze the thighs for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the skin crisp while ensuring that the meat retains its moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs, but they may cook faster, so check for doneness after about 25 minutes.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but you can marinate for up to 24 hours for even more flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad complement this dish beautifully.

→ Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.