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Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Honey Mustard Glaze

crispy baked chicken thighs - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy, juicy baked chicken thighs with a sticky honey mustard glaze, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Drizzle olive oil over and rub to coat evenly.
  3. Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching.
  4. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes to crisp the skin and cook the thighs through.
  5. While baking, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and fresh thyme (if using) to make the glaze.
  6. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each thigh.
  7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until the glaze is bubbling and slightly caramelized.
  8. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the thigh; juices should run clear or use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  10. Serve hot, spooning any pan juices over the chicken.

Notes

Dry chicken skin thoroughly before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Apply glaze halfway through baking to prevent burning. Use a wire rack for best results or flip chicken halfway if not using a rack. Tent with foil if glaze starts to burn. Let chicken rest after baking for juicy meat.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken thighs, honey mustard glaze, easy chicken recipe, baked chicken, weeknight dinner, gluten-free, comfort food