This Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe is a game-changer! With a tangy mustard and honey glaze, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Hey there, folks! I’ve done it again – created another mouthwatering chicken recipe that’s perfect for any day of the week! Chicken is such a versatile meat, and I’m willing to bet you already have everything you need in your pantry to whip up this delicious dish!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and bold flavors. The combination of sweet honey and savory mustard creates a glaze that will make your taste buds sing!
Do I Have To Use Chicken Thighs?
Absolutely not! While this recipe calls for chicken thighs, feel free to use other cuts of chicken like drumsticks, wings, or breasts. Just keep in mind that different cuts require different cooking times.
Ingredient Notes
Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients:
- Chicken – I recommend using 2 lbs of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning, to taste.
- Olive oil – Choose a neutral-tasting oil for cooking.
- Mustard – You can use any brand or a combination of regular mustard and Dijon grainy mustard.
- Honey – The sweet element that adds depth to the flavors.
- Garlic – 6 fresh cloves, minced. Remember, 1 1/2 teaspoons equals 1 fresh clove.
- Red pepper flakes – For a touch of heat.
How To Make Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
Now let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Place them in a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, mustards, honey, garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Brush this delicious sauce over both sides of the chicken thighs, making sure they are fully coated.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and serve warm!
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
If you’re a fan of air frying, you can also make these chicken thighs in your air fryer. The cooking time may vary depending on your specific air fryer, so be sure to consult your manual. Here’s a basic guide:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Prepare the chicken and sauce as instructed in the recipe, making sure to brush the thighs with the sauce.
- Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with the skin side up.
- Fry in the preheated air fryer for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when done.
How Do I Know When The Chicken Is Done?
The most foolproof way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, and it should read between 165°F – 175°F when finished. This is especially important for chicken thighs with bones, as they may appear slightly pink due to the minerals in the bones.
How Long To Bake Chicken Thighs
Keep in mind that when baking bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, the cooking time will be longer than that of boneless, skinless thighs. It’s also essential to adjust the oven temperature accordingly for optimal results.
What To Serve With Oven Baked Chicken Thighs
The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving this delicious chicken! Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Skillet Green Beans
- Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
- Harvest Rice
- Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
- Greek Pasta Salad
- Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
- Instant Pot Rice
What To Do With Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, fear not! This oven-baked chicken will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I recommend freezing it in a sealed airtight container. It will stay fresh in the freezer for 4 – 6 months.
How To Reheat Chicken Without Drying It Out
When it comes to reheating chicken, you have a few options. Here are two common methods:
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In the oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place the chicken in the center of the foil and wrap it completely. You can brush the chicken with a little olive oil before wrapping to retain its crispiness. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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In the microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Brushing it with olive oil will help keep it moist. Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap and heat for 2 – 3 minutes at a time, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If using regular plastic wrap, make sure it doesn’t touch the chicken to avoid transferring any chemicals.
Looking For More Chicken Ideas? Try These Recipes:
- Garlic Butter Chicken
- Honey Mustard Chicken
- Chicken Madeira
- Easy Chicken Paprikash
- Crockpot Thai Chicken
- Chicken on the Ritz
- Cheesy Chicken Fritters
- Crispy Fried Chicken
For more mouthwatering recipes and cooking tips, visit Ekilove. So go ahead and give this Oven Baked Chicken Thighs recipe a try – it’s sure to become a family favorite! Happy cooking!
