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Homemade Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs photo

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs

Juicy, crispy baked chicken thighs with a savory spice rub and a honey-mustard garlic sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • rimmed baking sheet or 9x13 baking dish
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 6-8 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for rubbing the chicken
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons whole-grain Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet or a 9x13 baking dish and set aside.
  • Combine the dry seasoning ingredients in a large bowl: salt, black pepper, dried Italian herbs, dry mustard, smoked paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, and garlic powder.
  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then rub them with 2 tablespoons olive oil to coat evenly.
  • Add the oiled chicken thighs to the bowl with the seasoning and toss to coat each piece generously and evenly.
  • Arrange the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet or dish, spacing them so air can circulate.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • If desired, switch the oven to broil and broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp the skin further—watch closely to avoid burning.
  • While the chicken bakes, make the sauce: in a medium bowl whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, whole-grain Dijon, yellow mustard, mayonnaise, honey, and minced garlic until smooth.
  • Serve the baked chicken thighs with the honey-mustard garlic sauce on the side and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry helps the skin get crispy.
  • Toss the chicken well so the seasoning adheres evenly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
  • Broil only briefly to avoid burning the spices.