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Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs: Easy 30-Minute Dinner

Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs - featured image

These crispy honey mustard chicken thighs come together in about 30 minutes, using simple ingredients for a sticky-sweet, salty-savory glaze that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth, low-sodium
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
  2. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard. Set aside.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers and a drop of water sizzles on contact (about 2 minutes).
  4. Sear the chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan. Don’t crowd them—work in batches if needed. Press down gently with a spatula for 10 seconds. Cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes until deep golden brown and the skin releases easily.
  5. Flip and finish: Flip the chicken using tongs. Cook for another 5-6 minutes on the other side. Internal temperature should reach 160°F.
  6. Add garlic and deglaze: Push the chicken to one side. Add minced garlic to the empty space and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and scrape up browned bits from the pan.
  7. Glaze the chicken: Reduce heat to low. Brush or spoon the honey mustard glaze over each thigh, coating both sides. Cook for 1-2 minutes, turning once, until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  8. Rest and serve: Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Spoon any remaining pan sauce over the top and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.

Notes

Start with a cold pan for extra crispy skin. Don’t move the chicken too early; let it develop a deep golden crust. Add the glaze at the very end to prevent honey from burning. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey mustard chicken, crispy chicken thighs, easy weeknight dinner, 30-minute meal, gluten-free, dairy-free