Perfectly baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are irresistibly caramelized on the outside and succulent on the inside. Baking this recipe in a casserole dish allows the bottom of the chicken to self-baste in the honey mustard sauce, for delectably saucy, flavorful chicken.

This easy chicken dinner is a perfect weeknight meal. If you love this chicken thighs recipe, these Baked Chicken Legs and Oven Baked Chicken Breast are also must-tries!

Overhead view of baked honey mustard chicken thighs in a ceramic casserole dish.

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Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs Recipe

This classic baked chicken recipe packs so much flavor. Cooking bone-in chicken thighs in a hot oven while they self-baste in homemade honey mustard sauce results in the juiciest chicken meat. Meanwhile, the skins bake up caramelized and golden, locking in all the mouthwatering sweet and tangy flavors. 

Before serving, drizzle your cooked, sliced chicken thighs with pan drippings for an even more irresistible flavor. All you need to make this easy chicken recipe into a meal is a side of fluffy White Rice and your choice of veggie side (we’re partial to Roasted Broccoli). You can even roast your vegetables in a separate pan at the same time as your chicken. It’s the ultimate family-friendly weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love Honey Mustard Chicken

You won’t believe how easy it is to make juicy, flavor-packed chicken. Here are even more reasons we can’t get enough of this baked honey mustard chicken recipe:

  • Minimal Prep – Have your chicken thighs ready for the oven in minutes.
  • Flavorful – These succulent chicken thighs are saturated in tangy honey mustard flavor.
  • Versatile – Pair your baked chicken thighs with your favorite sides for a delicious and no-fuss meal, and then save your leftovers for lunch.
Close up of baked honey mustard chicken thighs in a baking dish.

Ingredients

You only need a small number of ingredients to make these honey mustard chicken thighs. Below is a quick overview of what you’ll need, with the full details available in the recipe card.

  • Chicken Thighs – We recommend bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe. Trim away any fat that would otherwise accumulate in the pan while roasting, along with excess skin (see our pro tip below).
  • Dijon Mustard – Dijon mustard has a milder flavor than traditional yellow mustard, but you can use any kind of mustard you prefer. Use spicy or English mustard for an even stronger flavor. Grainy mustard also adds nice color and flavor.
  • Honey – The natural sweetness of honey balances the sharpness of the mustard and aromatic garlic perfectly. It’s a perfect match.
  • Olive Oil – or any kind of oil will work here.
  • Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is best. We use 3 cloves, but you can adapt the number to suit your and your family’s tastes.
  • Seasonings – Salt and freshly cracked black pepper are a must. We also add dried or fresh rosemary for even more depth of flavor.
The ingredients for baked honey mustard chicken thighs.

Pro Tip: If your chicken has excess fat or excess skin that wraps underneath the thighs, we recommend trimming it away. This way the thigh meat can self-baste directly in the sauce and juices. Leave the skin on top of the chicken thigh intact, to seal in moisture and protect the meat from high heat.

How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken

Honey mustard chicken is truly one of the easiest baked chicken thigh recipes you’ll make. It comes together fast and there’s no marinating required. You’ll have everything ready in the time it takes to preheat your oven.

  1. Prep the Chicken – Using a paper towel, gently pat your chicken thighs dry, arrange them in a baking dish, and give them a generous sprinkle with salt and pepper. Now, it’s time to get this succulent chicken ready for the oven:
  2. Prepare the Glaze – Whisk together the ingredients for the honey mustard sauce.
  3. Coat the Chicken – Next, use a basting brush to brush the honey Dijon mixture all over the top and sides of each chicken thigh. Make sure they’re well coated.
  4. Bake – Afterward, bake the chicken thighs for about 40-45 minutes, until they’re cooked through (see the next section for how to tell when your chicken is done baking). 
  5. Serve – plate the chicken and spoon over some of the pan sauce for extra flavor with every bite of juicy chicken.
Photo collage showing the process of baking chicken thighs with honey mustard sauce.

Pro Tip: Broiling for 1-2 minutes at the very end gives the chicken thighs a lovely golden brown color, but remember to keep a close eye so that they don’t burn. Every oven is different, and the chicken may brown faster beneath certain broilers.

How Do I Know When Chicken Thighs Are Done?

According to USDA guidelines, chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF. The easiest way to tell if your chicken is done is to take the temperature at the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer. I love my chicken thighs to get to 175˚ because the collagen breaks down and it becomes even more tender. That’s what I love about chicken thighs – dark meat chicken is more forgiving.

An instant-read thermometer used to take the temperature of oven-baked chicken thighs in a casserole dish.

Common Questions

Can I use boneless skinless thighs?

Yes, though boneless chicken will bake faster. Bake the thighs for 20-25 minutes or until the center reaches 165ºF on a meat thermometer.

Can I use chicken legs?

Also yes. Chicken legs will need to cook a bit longer, and until the internal temperature reaches 175ºF.

Can I bake this on a rimmed baking sheet?

If you prefer crispier chicken, go ahead and use a rimmed baking sheet. The sauce gets more dispersed and evaporates more quickly. Just be sure to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup – burnt sugar is a pain to scrub off (see photo above for proof)!

baked chicken thighs in honey mustard sauce in a ceramic casserole dish.

What to Serve with Chicken Thighs

This succulent honey mustard chicken is an easy family meal, and it’s just as perfect to make when we entertain. The flavors are super satisfying and pair well with loads of easy side dishes. Try these serving ideas:

A fork stuck into a slice of juicy chicken thighs served with honey mustard sauce

Make-Ahead

This recipe is great for meal prep, and leftovers keep well for easy lunches. Make sure to store your baked chicken thighs within 2 hours.

  • To Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken airtight in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can enjoy leftover chicken cold over salads, or in sandwiches and wraps.
  • Reheating: It’s always best to reheat meats using the same method they were cooked initially. Reheat baked chicken in the oven at 350ºF. We do not recommend microwaving chicken (microwaved chicken always tastes weird to me).
  • To Freeze: Cooked honey mustard chicken freezes well. Store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container or resealable bag, and keep it frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating.

It’s hard to beat the ease and flavor of this sweet-tangy honey mustard chicken recipe. Chicken thighs bake up so perfectly using this method, you’re going to love it!

Overhead view of baked honey mustard chicken thighs on a blue platter.

More Easy Chicken Recipes

If your family is head-over-heels about chicken dinners also, wait until you try these other delicious chicken recipes:

Natasha's Kitchen Cookbook

Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs Recipe

4.97 from 100 votes
Author: Natasha Kravchuk
Overhead view of baked honey mustard chicken thighs in a ceramic casserole dish.
These juicy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs are irresistibly crisp on the outside and smothered in mouthwatering homemade honey mustard sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 8 servings
  • 3 lbs bone-in skin-on chicken thighs, (8 count), trimmed of excess skin and fat
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp coarsely ground black pepper, plus more to garnish
  • 1/4 cup dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, about 1 Tbsp minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, or 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375 ̊F. Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Set chicken thighs in a 9×13 casserole dish and season all over with salt and pepper.
  • In a small mixing bowl, add Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary. Stir until well combined.
  • Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the top and sides of the chicken.
  • Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and registers at least 165 ̊F, or preferably 175˚F on a meat thermometer. Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the tops if desired.
  • Remove from the oven and spoon the pan sauce over the chicken to serve.

Nutrition Per Serving

371kcal Calories10g Carbs24g Protein26g Fat7g Saturated Fat5g Polyunsaturated Fat11g Monounsaturated Fat0.1g Trans Fat142mg Cholesterol488mg Sodium320mg Potassium0.4g Fiber9g Sugar119IU Vitamin A0.4mg Vitamin C20mg Calcium1mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
371
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
26
g
40
%
Saturated Fat
 
7
g
44
%
Trans Fat
 
0.1
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
5
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
11
g
Cholesterol
 
142
mg
47
%
Sodium
 
488
mg
21
%
Potassium
 
320
mg
9
%
Carbohydrates
 
10
g
3
%
Fiber
 
0.4
g
2
%
Sugar
 
9
g
10
%
Protein
 
24
g
48
%
Vitamin A
 
119
IU
2
%
Vitamin C
 
0.4
mg
0
%
Calcium
 
20
mg
2
%
Iron
 
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: baked chicken thighs, honey mustard chicken, honey mustard chicken thighs
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $$
Calories: 371

Natasha Kravchuk

Welcome to my kitchen! I am Natasha, the blogger behind Natasha's Kitchen (since 2009). My husband and I run this blog together and share only our best, family approved and tested recipes with YOU. Thanks for stopping by! We are so happy you're here.

Read more posts by Natasha

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Recipe Rating




Comments

  • Lucy
    March 19, 2024

    Great flavour for sure but need some help to figure out how to minimize the water that the chicken produces during the baking process. My sauce was super tasty but very watery!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 20, 2024

      Glad you enjoyed it, Lucy!

      Reply

  • K
    March 10, 2024

    There is sooooo many ads and popups on this site it’s damn near unbearable to use. Seriously.

    Reply

  • Faye Passanisi
    February 22, 2024

    Once again Natasha, I must sing your praises! Every recipe I’ve tried of yours comes out amazing. I do a lot of entertaining and also some catering and everyone loves your recipes. You seem to be such a well rounded lady and I love to watch your videos. Every bit as lovely as your recipes. mThank you so much for sharing your gifts of culinary delights.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      February 23, 2024

      Aw, thank you so much, Faye!

      Reply

  • Susan Hollier
    February 6, 2024

    Hey Natasha, oh, Mylanta! These were absolutely delicious! You have such a wonderful gift for putting flavors and ingredients together in all of your recipes.
    Thank you for yet another success! Have a great evening!! 😊🩷

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      February 6, 2024

      I’m so happy you loved this recipe, Susan! Thank you so much for the fantastic review and your encouraging words. I am smiling big reading your comment!

      Reply

  • Louise A Ingram
    February 6, 2024

    I have made these several times and they are delicious! And so easy, enjoyed by all.
    Thank you Natasha!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      February 6, 2024

      You’re very welcome, Louise!

      Reply

  • Maegaret
    January 30, 2024

    Tried this recipe last night as I had all the ingredients . It was quick and very tasty. I served with rice and a veggie. Plan on serving the leftovers either with noodles and on a toasted ciabatta roll as a sandwich.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      January 30, 2024

      Sounds good, I think it will be great either with rice or veggies. Thanks for the feedback and enjoy!

      Reply

  • Bonnielea Kuretich Martinez
    January 2, 2024

    Natasha,
    You and your wonderful recipes are fabulous. I am so blessed to receive your emails. I was taught to cook like you, as I am Slovenian and Croatian descent. I have enjoyed trying many of the recipes. I am not a well person any longer after having cancer. Thank you for your wonderful recipes,you are brilliant.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      January 2, 2024

      Thank you so much, it’s my pleasure to share my recipes with you. I wish you will feel healthier and better this year.

      Reply

  • Darla
    November 10, 2023

    1st time me making the recipe. It was absolutely delicious. The thighs were so moist and flavorful. My husband raved about it. I used the fresh chopped rosemary. Looking forward to making this again soon. Absolutely love love your recipes ❤️

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      November 10, 2023

      That’s wonderful, Darla! We love this recipe too. I’m so glad it was a hit.

      Reply

  • Deborah
    September 30, 2023

    It was raining in So Cal today so put on the oven and saw this yummy honey mustard chicken recipe. What a hit that was for dinner-no leftovers!! Moist, succulent chicken thighs and that sauce made this restaurant quality. Will be on regular rotation in my household. Now to find your book with other recipes!! Thank you Natasha for bringing back joy in the kitchen!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      September 30, 2023

      That’s wonderful, Deborah! I’m so glad you loved this recipe. Thank you for the feedback.

      Reply

  • Linda Feijo
    September 12, 2023

    I made your Honey Mustard Chicken Thigh recipe today and it was delicious. Actually all your recipes I try come out delicious. Can’t wait to receive your cook book.

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      September 12, 2023

      I’m so glad to hear that, Linda! Thank you for sharing.

      Reply

  • Marie
    September 6, 2023

    Can I make with this with drumsticks? Would it be same temperature and time? Made it with chicken thighs and my family loved it. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 6, 2023

      Hi Marie, I have not tested drumstick with this specific recipe, but have not had to marinate the thighs.

      Reply

  • Alanna Diamond
    August 31, 2023

    I would like to make this recipe. I will be using drumsticks. Would it be better to marinate the drumsticks, so the flavor goes through. Thank you,

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 31, 2023

      Hi Alanna! I have not tested drumstick with this specific recipe, but have not had to marinate the thighs.

      Reply

  • Gabrielle
    August 27, 2023

    Made this for dinner tonight. Wonderful. Thank you for sharing. I cut the recipe in half and it worked out wonderful.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      August 28, 2023

      You’re so welcome and so great to hear that you loved it!

      Reply

  • Therese Corsaro
    August 19, 2023

    Absolutely delicious!! We live in So Cal, so I was waiting for a cooler day to bake this dish. Well, here we are, waiting for Tropical Storm Hillary and it’s 25 degrees cooler than yesterday, so we gave it a try. Very good!!! We used our fresh Rosemary from our garden and it really added a great flavor! Thank you!! I love all your recipes. I recommend them to everyone I know!!

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 19, 2023

      Hi Therese! I’m so glad you loved it. We love how quick, easy, and delicious these are!

      Reply

  • Lena
    August 16, 2023

    Best chicken thigh recipe I’ve ever made!! I brushed the sauce over them and let it all sit in the fridge for a few hours and then baked it. Amazing, juice, tender, sweet, garlicky and so flavorful!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      August 16, 2023

      That’s just awesome! Thank you for sharing your wonderful review, Lena!

      Reply

  • Nancy Thompson
    August 15, 2023

    I missed something. Do you marinate or simply brush the sauce over the chicken?

    Reply

    • NatashasKitchen.com
      August 15, 2023

      Hi Nancy! No marination require. We just brushed the glaze on them. I hope you love the recipe.

      Reply

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