Craving a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s budget-friendly and bursting with flavor? These Sticky Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are a game-changer. With golden crispy skin, a finger-licking sweet and tangy glaze, and juicy, fall-off-the-bone meat, this recipe is the secret weapon for weeknight dinners and weekend feasts alike
Why You’ll Love This Sticky Chicken Thighs Recipe
Double-glazed for a rich, caramelized finish
Crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat
Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
Uses affordable ingredients with gourmet results
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Chicken:
6 Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs
Rich and flavorful, these hold up beautifully to roasting and glazing while staying juicy inside.Salt & Pepper
Simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
For the Glaze:
⅓ Cup Honey
Adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize during roasting.¼ Cup Dijon Mustard
Brings tangy sharpness that cuts through the sweetness.2 Tablespoons Coarse Mustard
Adds texture and a slightly bolder mustard bite.1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
The secret to balancing the glaze with acidity.3 Garlic Cloves, Minced
Adds depth and aromatic savoriness.1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
Introduces subtle smokiness and a beautiful color.Fresh Thyme Sprigs
Infuses the chicken with fresh, herbal notes during roasting.
For Serving (Optional but Recommended):
Roasted Baby Potatoes
Perfect for soaking up extra glaze and juices.Charred Lemon Wedges
Adds a bright, citrusy finish that pairs beautifully with the richness of the dish.
Tips and Tricks
Dry the skin well before searing to ensure maximum crispiness
Use a cast-iron skillet for best heat retention and caramelization
Add a splash more apple cider vinegar if you prefer a sharper tang
For a kick, mix in a bit of chili flakes or hot honey to the glaze
Variations and Customizations
Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking, but reduce bake time by 5 minutes
Make It Keto: Substitute honey with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup
Swap the Herb: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different aroma
Sheet Pan Version: Toss potatoes directly into the pan to roast alongside the chicken
Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes: Garlic mashed potatoes, buttered corn, or roasted vegetables
Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling apple cider or a thyme-infused lemonade
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze glazed chicken (fully cooled) for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until heated through
Popular Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the glaze for up to 24 hours in advance for extra flavor.
What if I don’t have coarse mustard?
Use all Dijon, or substitute with stone-ground mustard for similar texture.
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
You can, but they’ll be drier. Adjust cooking time accordingly and watch carefully when broiling.
