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Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs


  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 45-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs feature tender and juicy bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs glazed in a naturally sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce enhanced with smoked turkey bacon. This easy-to-make dish delivers rich, balanced flavors, crisp skin, and a luscious glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings, it’s versatile and customizable with options for spicy, herbaceous, or smoky variations. Serve with plant-based mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Honey Mustard Glaze

  • 1/4 cup honey (natural)
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 teaspoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Additional Flavor

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cut into strips

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to build a flavorful base. Drizzle and rub with olive oil to aid browning.
  2. Make the Honey Mustard Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and the natural gelling agent until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce to add a subtle savory complexity to the glaze.
  3. Arrange and Add Smoked Turkey Bacon: Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish. Distribute the smoked turkey bacon strips around the chicken to infuse a smoky, meaty flavor during baking.
  4. Coat and Bake: Generously brush the honey mustard glaze over each chicken thigh, covering all skin and sides. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35 to 45 minutes or until the chicken skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an irresistible finish, broil the chicken for 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning. This step caramelizes the edges and enhances flavor.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin.
  • Allow chicken to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
  • Do not skip the natural gelling agent; it thickens the glaze so it clings well.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep chicken juicy.
  • Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with glaze and bacon
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: baked chicken thighs, honey mustard chicken, smoked turkey bacon, easy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken, weeknight dinner