Name: Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¼ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 8 thighs); Salt and pepper, to taste; 3 sprigs fresh thyme; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional); ½ cup Dijon mustard; ½ cup honey; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.9 from 88 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s irresistibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to prepare, let me introduce you to the Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe. This dish combines juicy, tender chicken thighs with a luscious blend of honey and tangy Dijon mustard, delivering a perfect balance of sweet and savory that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe is a total crowd-pleaser and a guaranteed weeknight winner.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich, comforting flavor and beautiful golden color this dish is known for. From the tangy mustard to the fragrant thyme, every element enhances the final result.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: About 2 ¼ pounds or roughly 8 thighs, chosen for their juicy texture and quick cooking time.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Dijon mustard: Adds a smooth, tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the honey perfectly.
Honey: Provides a natural sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce during baking.
Extra virgin olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and adds a subtle richness.
Fresh thyme sprigs: Infuse the dish with an earthy aroma and a subtle herbaceous flavor.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, colorful garnish that brightens each bite.

How to Make Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to keep your chicken from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This simple prep step sets the stage for perfectly baked chicken every time.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, and extra virgin olive oil. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, glossy sauce. This mixture is what turns the chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece, coating every bite with tangy sweetness and rich flavor.

Step 3: Season and Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle each piece generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor. Then, pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, turning each thigh so it’s completely coated—this step ensures every morsel is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Add Fresh Thyme and Bake

Tuck the fresh thyme sprigs between the chicken pieces. These will infuse the dish with an amazing aroma that cooks right into the meat. Pop the dish into your preheated oven, and bake for about 30 minutes. Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with the sauce in the pan—this keeps the meat juicy and intensifies the glossy, caramelized finish. Keep baking until an instant-read thermometer hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once your chicken thighs are perfectly cooked, take them out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and delicious. Serve the chicken with extra sauce spooned over the top, then sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a simple, elegant way to add a burst of green and a subtle herbaceous note to the finished dish. If you want to get creative, a few lemon wedges on the side can offer a zesty brightness that beautifully complements the richness of the honey mustard glaze.

Side Dishes

Because the chicken is so flavorful and saucy, pairing it with something lightly textured works best. Think fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fragrant pilaf. Steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad add a fresh, crunchy contrast that balances the dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe the star of a rustic family-style meal by serving the chicken directly in the baking dish at the table, spooning extra sauce over each piece. For a more elegant presentation, plate the chicken with a drizzle of sauce artistically placed across the top, garnished with fresh thyme sprigs and a sprinkle of parsley to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken thighs store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for an even tastier second meal. Just ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing to keep everything fresh and safe.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Place cooled chicken thighs with some sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a 350-degree oven or in a skillet over medium heat. Adding a spoonful of extra sauce while reheating keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can dry out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will add a bit more richness and require a slightly longer baking time—usually around 40 to 45 minutes. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure safety.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard and cooking spray, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly. Honey’s distinct floral notes complement the mustard perfectly, which is why it’s the star of this recipe!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer. Once the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s perfectly cooked—juicy and safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for a little heat. It adds a nice kick that pairs beautifully with the honey and mustard.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about this Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe that makes it a staple in my kitchen. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve to guests. Give it a try—you’ll soon find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again because it never fails to deliver on flavor, texture, and pure deliciousness.