Imagine a dish that transforms ordinary chicken thighs into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Our Maple Mustard Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will elevate your dinner game from mundane to magnificent. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that looks and tastes like you've been secretly training with a professional chef!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help achieve a nice caramelization on the chicken thighs.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup of maple syrup and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Whisk them together until well blended. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and a glaze for the chicken.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking before adding the chicken.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper to taste on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown. This step adds a delicious crust to the chicken.
- After the chicken has browned, flip the thighs over so the skin side is facing up. Pour the maple mustard mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken thighs for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the chicken remains moist.
- Serve the maple mustard chicken thighs warm, drizzled with any remaining glaze from the skillet. Pair them with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. The skin helps lock in moisture and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect sear. A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet works best for even heat distribution.
- Don't skip the resting time after cooking. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary to the maple mustard glaze.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- If you want a shinier, more caramelized glaze, you can broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and makes an excellent next-day lunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 145mg
