Craving a delicious and easy chicken dish? Look no further than Oven Baked Chicken Thighs! This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful honey mustard garlic sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients List
Chicken Thighs and Seasoning
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Required Kitchen Tools
When preparing Oven Baked Chicken Thighs, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Baking Dish: A baking dish that fits all your chicken thighs comfortably without overcrowding is essential for even cooking.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a mixing bowl to combine the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: A whisk helps blend the sauce ingredients together smoothly.
- Tongs: Tongs are useful for handling the chicken thighs when seasoning and placing them in the baking dish.
Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful and stress-free cooking experience.
Preparation of Chicken Thighs
Preparing the chicken thighs properly ensures that they turn out flavorful and perfectly cooked. Follow the steps below to season and marinate the chicken.
Seasoning the Chicken Thighs
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy skin. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Preparing the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, whole grain Dijon mustard, mustard, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth and cohesive sauce. This sauce will not only flavor the chicken but also help keep it moist during baking.
Baking the Chicken Thighs
Now that the chicken thighs are seasoned and the sauce is prepared, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection. Here are the steps to follow for a delicious outcome.
Arranging and Baking
- Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in your baking dish, skin side up. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking. - Pour the Sauce:
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Use a brush or spoon to spread the sauce evenly if needed. - Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through and the skin is crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
By following these steps, you will have perfectly baked chicken thighs with a delicious honey mustard garlic sauce.
Checking Doneness and Serving
Ensuring the chicken thighs are cooked properly is crucial for both flavor and safety. Here’s how to check for doneness and serve your meal.
Checking Doneness
To check if the chicken thighs are done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also check by cutting into the thickest part of the thigh; the juices should run clear, not pink.
Serving the Chicken Thighs
Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. Serve the chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Creating the Perfect Sauce
Now that the chicken thighs are baking, let’s focus on the sauce that will elevate the dish to the next level. This honey mustard garlic sauce is the star of the show, adding a delightful blend of flavors that complement the juicy chicken.
Mixing the Sauce Ingredients
To create the sauce, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon whole grain Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, whole grain Dijon mustard, regular mustard, honey, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients together until you have a smooth and well-mixed sauce. The mustard provides a tangy depth, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness, and the garlic brings a savory richness to the mix.
Adjusting the Sauce
Feel free to taste the sauce and adjust the ingredients to your preference. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey. For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. This sauce is versatile and can be tweaked to suit your taste buds.
Applying the Sauce to the Chicken Thighs
With the sauce ready and the chicken thighs partially baked, it’s time to apply the sauce and finish baking them to perfection.
Coating the Chicken Thighs
- Remove from Oven:
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven halfway through the baking time, around the 20-minute mark. Be cautious as the dish will be hot. - Apply the Sauce:
Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each chicken thigh with the honey mustard garlic sauce. Make sure each piece is well-covered, ensuring the flavors penetrate the meat as it finishes cooking. - Return to Oven:
Place the baking dish back in the oven to continue baking for the remaining time. This allows the sauce to meld with the chicken, creating a deliciously glazed exterior.
Basting for Extra Flavor
For an extra boost of flavor, consider basting the chicken thighs with the sauce once or twice during the remaining baking time. Simply open the oven, quickly brush more sauce onto the chicken, and close the oven to continue cooking. This step ensures the chicken is deeply infused with the rich flavors of the sauce.
Finishing Touches and Serving
As the chicken thighs finish baking, it’s time to prepare for serving and adding any final touches to make your dish truly outstanding.
Final Baking Steps
- Check for Doneness:
Once the total baking time is up, check the chicken thighs for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the thigh; the juices should run clear, not pink. - Crisping the Skin:
If you want extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken thighs for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Resting the Chicken
After removing the chicken thighs from the oven, let them rest in the baking dish for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your delicious oven-baked chicken thighs with a variety of side dishes to complement the meal. Here are a few suggestions:
- Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers make a healthy and colorful side dish. - Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with baked chicken, providing a comforting and satisfying accompaniment. - Rice or Quinoa:
A side of rice or quinoa can soak up the flavorful sauce, adding a hearty element to the meal. - Fresh Salad:
A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce.
Garnishing
For a final touch, garnish the chicken thighs with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but the skin may lose its crispiness.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Properly storing and reheating your leftover Oven Baked Chicken Thighs ensures that you can enjoy this delicious meal even on the second day.
Storage Instructions
To keep your chicken thighs fresh and tasty, follow these storage tips:
- Cool the Chicken:
Allow the chicken thighs to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy. - Airtight Container:
Place the cooled chicken thighs in an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out and helps maintain their flavor. - Refrigeration:
Store the container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the chicken thighs will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover chicken thighs, follow these steps to reheat them:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Reheating in the oven helps retain the crispy skin and moist interior. - Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet. If you prefer, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. - Reheat:
Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through. If the skin is not as crispy as you’d like, you can remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. - Microwave Option:
If you’re short on time, you can also reheat the chicken thighs in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe cover or another plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking. Note that the skin may not be as crispy using this method.
Freezing Leftovers
If you want to keep your chicken thighs for a longer period, freezing is a great option:
- Wrap Individually:
Wrap each chicken thigh individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. - Freezer Bag:
Place the wrapped chicken thighs in a freezer-safe ziplock bag. Label the bag with the date for easy reference. - Freezing Time:
Store the bag in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Mastering the recipe for Oven Baked Chicken Thighs opens up a world of flavorful and easy-to-make meals. With the perfect blend of honey mustard and garlic sauce, these chicken thighs are sure to be a hit at your dining table. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, this dish delivers a satisfying and delicious experience every time. Enjoy experimenting with different side dishes and garnishes to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!