Looking for a simple yet tasty dinner idea? You’re in the right place! In this blog, I’ll share my recipe for Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs on a sheet pan. With juicy chicken, golden baby potatoes, and crisp asparagus, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make and clean up! Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful meal that your family will love.

Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
– 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
The main stars of this dish are the chicken thighs. The skin-on and bone-in types give the best flavor and moisture. Honey and Dijon mustard make a sweet and tangy sauce. Baby potatoes and asparagus add great texture and nutrients.
Seasonings and Marinade Components
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Seasonings are key to this recipe. Olive oil helps the marinade stick. Garlic adds a burst of flavor. Dried thyme gives an earthy tone, while smoked paprika adds warmth. Salt and pepper enhance all the other tastes.
Optional Garnishes
– Chopped fresh parsley
Fresh parsley is a great touch. It adds a bright color and fresh taste. You can sprinkle it on just before serving. This step makes your dish look and taste even better.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Marinade
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot oven helps to crisp the chicken skin and cook the potatoes. Next, make the honey mustard marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together:
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk until smooth. This marinade adds great flavor to the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
To marinate chicken thighs, place them in a large zip-lock bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each thigh is well coated in the sauce. Seal the bag or cover the bowl. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for up to 2 hours in the fridge gives even more flavor.
Sheet Pan Preparation
Now, prepare the sheet pan. Arrange 1 pound of halved baby potatoes in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This helps the potatoes cook evenly. Next, take the marinated chicken thighs out of the bag or bowl. Place them skin side up over the potatoes. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken. This adds more flavor and moisture.
Baking Process
Bake the sheet pan in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This initial baking time helps the chicken and potatoes start to cook. After 25 minutes, take the pan out. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken again and add 1 bunch of trimmed asparagus around the chicken and potatoes. Return the sheet pan to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. The potatoes should be tender and the asparagus bright green.
Serving the Dish
Once done, remove the pan from the oven. Let the dish rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in the chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a nice color and fresh taste to the dish.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink.
To avoid dry chicken, marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can also cook it at the right temperature. Baking at 425°F helps keep the skin crispy while keeping the meat juicy. Don’t overcook, as this will dry it out.
Enhancing Flavor
Adding spices or herbs can boost flavor. Try cumin or garlic powder for a twist. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can brighten the dish.
For more flavor depth, marinate the chicken longer. If possible, let it sit in the fridge for up to two hours. This helps the flavors soak in.
Sheet Pan Cooking Tips
When using a sheet pan, arrange the ingredients in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. Avoid crowding the pan, so everything can roast properly.
For easy cleanup, line your sheet pan with parchment paper or foil. This will catch drips and make washing up simple. You can just toss the paper or foil away after cooking.
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can switch chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Chicken breasts cook faster, so watch the time. They stay juicy if you do not overcook them. You can also use pork chops. Pork works well with honey mustard flavors. If you prefer plant-based options, try tofu. Firm tofu absorbs the marinade nicely. Just press it to remove extra water before marinating.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to spice things up with new flavors. Instead of honey and mustard, try BBQ sauce. It gives a smoky taste that pairs well with chicken. You can also add different veggies. Slice bell peppers or zucchini and mix them in. These add color and crunch to your dish. Experiment with herbs like rosemary for a fresh twist.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Most of the ingredients in this dish are naturally gluten-free. For low-carb variations, skip the baby potatoes. Instead, use cauliflower florets. Cauliflower roasts nicely and soaks up the marinade’s flavor. This way, you can still enjoy a tasty meal without the carbs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your honey mustard chicken thighs fresh, store leftovers right away. Place the chicken and veggies in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Use airtight containers to keep flavors intact. I recommend glass containers, as they are safe and easy to clean.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, the oven works best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures the chicken stays juicy. Avoid microwave reheating if you want to keep the skin crispy.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze cooked honey mustard chicken for later. Cool it completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as you can. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven for best results. Enjoy your tasty meal whenever you want!
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. They cook faster than bone-in thighs. This change affects the texture, making them tender but less juicy. If you choose boneless thighs, reduce the baking time by about 5-10 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
What can I serve with honey mustard chicken thighs?
Honey mustard chicken thighs pair well with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Rice or quinoa for a hearty base
– Roasted vegetables like carrots or bell peppers
– A fresh salad with mixed greens
– Creamy mashed potatoes for comfort
– Garlic bread to soak up the sauce
These sides balance the sweet and tangy flavor of the chicken. Choose one or mix a few for a complete meal experience!
How do I know when chicken thighs are fully cooked?
To check if chicken thighs are cooked, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh. The safe internal temperature is 165°F.
You can also check for doneness by slicing into the thickest part. The meat should be opaque and the juices clear. If the juices run pink, continue cooking. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
You now have a delicious and easy recipe for honey mustard chicken thighs. We covered key ingredients like chicken, honey, and Dijon mustard. I shared tips for cooking and storing leftovers. You learned to customize the dish with different proteins and flavors.
This meal is not just tasty but also versatile and suits many diets. Now, you can impress friends and family with this simple yet flavorful dish. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
