Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Kitchen

I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs because it perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. Each bite is tender and juicy, thanks to the marinade that infuses the chicken with rich honey and tangy mustard notes. I've prepared this dish for family gatherings and weeknight dinners alike, and it never fails to impress. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity; with only a few ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal that feels gourmet without all the fuss.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-02-01T14:45:35.701Z

When I first tried making Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs, I was amazed at how just a few ingredients could create such a vibrant flavor. I learned that letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes really makes a difference, allowing the honey and mustard to seep into the meat, making it tender and flavorful.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when I have friends over. I often serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, which complements the chicken’s sweetness beautifully!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich honey and tangy mustard create a perfect flavor balance
Easily adaptable with your choice of herbs
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade for Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs serves a dual purpose: it infuses the chicken with flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. Honey not only adds sweetness but also caramelizes during cooking, creating a beautiful glaze. Dijon mustard brings brightness and tang, balancing the richness of the honey. Together, these ingredients make a well-rounded marinade that enhances the overall tasting experience. Make sure to whisk the ingredients until fully blended, as this ensures that all the flavors are evenly distributed across the chicken.

By letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes – though longer would be even better – the flavors have time to seep into the meat. If you can manage, aim for 2 to 4 hours of marinating time. This extended period makes a noticeable difference in flavor. For busy cooks, you can prepare the marinade the night before and store the chicken in it, sealed tightly in the refrigerator, for a quick meal when time is short.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Texture

Baking the chicken thighs at 375°F (190°C) allows for even cooking without drying them out. To ensure the chicken remains juicy, take care not to overbake. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). When you remove the chicken from the oven, look for golden edges and a slightly glossy finish from the honey. If the chicken appears pale, you can briefly broil it for a couple of minutes to achieve a richer color.

For those without an oven-safe dish, consider using a large skillet on the stovetop with a lid. You can brown the chicken thighs on medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes each side to create a caramelized crust and then cover the skillet, reducing the heat, to cook through for an additional 10-15 minutes. This method keeps the chicken moist while still allowing for a pleasing texture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Remove chicken from the marinade and place it in the prepared dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey for a different flavor profile.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize the flavor profile to suit your taste. Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic twist. If you're a fan of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a squirt of Sriracha can add exciting depth to the sweetness of the honey. Alternatively, you may substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness that pairs well with mustard.

For a citrusy kick, consider adding the zest and juice of a lemon or orange to the marinade. This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken further. Don’t be afraid to experiment; the base of honey and Dijon is versatile and works as a canvas for various flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

To maintain the chicken's moisture during reheating, you might want to cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out. Pair the reheated chicken with fresh sides like green salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that feels just as satisfying as when it was first made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may dry out quicker. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes for optimal flavor, but you can marinate for up to 4 hours if you have the time.

→ Can this recipe be made on the grill?

Absolutely! Grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

→ What sides pair well with Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad are great choices to accompany this dish!