Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs

Introduction

If you’re craving something crispy, sweet, and savory, you’ve hit the jackpot with these Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs! Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly roasted chicken thighs with golden, crispy skin, all smothered in a tangy-sweet brown sugar mustard glaze. It’s the perfect balance of flavor that’s both bold and comforting. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a weeknight favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. The sweetness from the brown sugar combines with the zesty mustard for a glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, leaving you with chicken that’s juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and oh-so-delicious!

Ready for a meal that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor? Let’s dive into this show-stopping chicken recipe.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs

This recipe isn’t just about how easy it is to make—it’s about creating a meal that feels special with minimal effort. Here’s why this dish is a winner:

Crispy Skin & Tender Meat: Chicken thighs are a dream come true. The skin crisps up in the oven, while the meat stays juicy and tender, offering the best of both worlds.

Sweet & Tangy Glaze: The brown sugar and mustard glaze creates a delicious contrast of flavors that’s both sweet and tangy, with just the right amount of kick.

Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe! Everything comes together with a few pantry staples, so you can whip this up any night of the week.

Quick & Easy: No need for a ton of prep. Just mix the glaze, coat the chicken, and let the oven do the rest. It’s a no-stress meal that still feels impressive.

Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of flavors is a crowd favorite, making it perfect for everything from family dinners to gatherings with friends.

Ingredients

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs

Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are your best bet for achieving that crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Plus, the skin helps lock in all that flavor from the glaze.

Brown Sugar: This is what gives the glaze its sweet, caramelized touch. It melts into the mustard and creates a gorgeous, sticky coating for the chicken.

Dijon Mustard: The mustard provides a tangy punch to balance out the sweetness of the brown sugar. Dijon mustard works perfectly here because of its smooth, sharp flavor.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These simple seasonings add depth and savory notes to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.

Olive Oil: For rubbing on the chicken before baking, helping the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the other flavors.

Instructions

Let’s get started on these mouth-watering chicken thighs:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is key to getting that crispy skin.

Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This will help the skin get extra crispy! Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it all over the skin, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, and the glaze is smooth. It should be thick but pourable.

Coat the Chicken

Generously brush the brown sugar mustard glaze all over the chicken thighs. Make sure to get some of the glaze under the skin as well for maximum flavor.

Bake the Chicken

Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The skin should be crispy and caramelized, and the glaze should be bubbly and sticky.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: [Calorie count per serving]

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs

These chicken thighs are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, brussels sprouts, or green beans add a healthy and colorful touch to your meal.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken and the sweet-tangy glaze.

Rice: Serve with a side of fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up any extra glaze from the chicken.

Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the chicken and add some freshness to the plate.

Additional Tips

Crispier Skin: For even crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning the glaze!

Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the glaze to give it a spicy kick.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for a few days. Just brush it on the chicken right before baking!

Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven to keep the skin crispy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
A1: Yes, you can! Boneless chicken thighs will still work, but they won’t have the same crispy skin. If using boneless, check the chicken a little earlier to ensure it cooks through.

Q2: Can I use chicken breasts instead?
A2: You can substitute chicken breasts, but be aware that they tend to cook faster and may dry out. Bone-in, skin-on thighs work best for this recipe.

Q3: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

Q5: Can I freeze this chicken?
A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs are a game-changer when it comes to easy, flavorful meals. The perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a crispy, golden skin and juicy meat, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a no-fuss recipe that’s big on flavor and guaranteed to impress. So, grab those chicken thighs, whip up that glaze, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal you’ll crave again and again!

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