Name: Dijon Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4 thighs); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 large garlic clove, minced; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes with simple steps.
Juicy & Flavorful – Chicken thighs stay tender with crispy, golden skin.
Balanced Taste – The Dijon mustard and honey add the perfect combination of tang and sweetness.
Minimal Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a fuss-free meal.
Great for Any Occasion – A weeknight staple that’s also impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4 thighs)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Honey Dijon Sauce:

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 large garlic clove, minced
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 425°F. Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
Season the chicken on all sides with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for 5 minutes until golden brown and the skin releases easily from the pan.
Roast the chicken: Flip the chicken over and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 10 minutes.
Make the honey Dijon sauce: In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and salt.
Glaze the chicken: Remove the skillet from the oven, brush the chicken tops with the honey Dijon mixture, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes.
Check for doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a teaspoon of whole grain mustard for extra depth.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or boneless breasts (adjust cooking time accordingly).
Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the pan for added aroma.
Creamy Option: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt to the Dijon sauce for extra richness.
Grilled Version: Cook the chicken on a grill over medium heat, basting with the sauce in the final minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Freezing: Store cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?

Yes, but they will cook faster—reduce roasting time to 15 minutes and check for doneness.

2. How do I get extra crispy skin?

Ensure the chicken is very dry before searing and avoid overcrowding the pan.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can sear the chicken in advance, store it in the fridge, then finish baking when ready to serve.

4. What side dishes pair well with this?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad complement this dish perfectly.

5. Can I make the sauce without honey?

Yes! Substitute with maple syrup, brown sugar, or leave it out for a tangier sauce.

6. What’s the best skillet to use?

A cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a crispy sear and even cooking.

7. Can I cook this on the stovetop only?

Yes, cook the chicken over medium heat, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

8. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can use whole grain mustard or yellow mustard, but the flavor will be slightly different.

9. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just ensure your Dijon mustard is free from additives.

10. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is safe to eat at 165°F.

Conclusion

Easy Dijon chicken thighs are a perfect go-to meal for busy nights, offering crispy skin, juicy meat, and a flavorful honey Dijon glaze. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this dish is a must-try for any home cook. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy an effortless yet elegant dinner!