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
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Double-glazed for a rich, caramelized finish
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Crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat
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Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
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Uses affordable ingredients with gourmet results
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Chicken:
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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:
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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):
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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
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Dry the skin well before searing to ensure maximum crispiness
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Use a cast-iron skillet for best heat retention and caramelization
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Add a splash more apple cider vinegar if you prefer a sharper tang
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For a kick, mix in a bit of chili flakes or hot honey to the glaze
Variations and Customizations
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Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking, but reduce bake time by 5 minutes
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Make It Keto: Substitute honey with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup
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Swap the Herb: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different aroma
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Sheet Pan Version: Toss potatoes directly into the pan to roast alongside the chicken
Pairing Suggestions
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Side Dishes: Garlic mashed potatoes, buttered corn, or roasted vegetables
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Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling apple cider or a thyme-infused lemonade
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Freeze glazed chicken (fully cooled) for up to 2 months
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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.