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Crispy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs

crispy grilled honey mustard chicken thighs - featured image

A recipe for juicy, crispy chicken thighs glazed with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, perfect for grilling and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional, for garnish or marinade enhancement)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Marinade (10 minutes): In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, smoked paprika, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken (at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours): Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place them in the bowl with the marinade, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate.
  3. Preheat the Grill (10-15 minutes): Heat grill to medium-high heat, about 375-400°F (190-204°C). Clean and oil the grates.
  4. Grill the Chicken (20-25 minutes): Place thighs skin side down on the grill. Cook without moving for 7-8 minutes until skin is golden and crisp. Flip and grill the other side for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with leftover marinade or fresh glaze in the last 5 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest the Chicken (5-10 minutes): Transfer grilled thighs to a plate and cover loosely with foil to let juices redistribute.
  6. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry before marinating to ensure crispiness. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning. Let skin set before flipping. Baste glaze halfway through cooking to caramelize without burning. Rest chicken after grilling for juicy meat. If glaze thickens while resting, warm gently before brushing on.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey mustard chicken, grilled chicken thighs, crispy chicken, summer grilling, easy chicken recipe, backyard cookout