Juicy Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs
Enjoy a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors with these easy-to-make Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Dish large enough for chicken
- 1 Mixing Bowl medium
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- Salt and pepper to taste
Maple Dijon Sauce
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This temperature is ideal for roasting the chicken thighs to achieve crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Make the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. The sauce should have a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
Bake the Chicken
- Place the chicken thighs skin side up in a large baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage and Reheating
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight first.
Notes
Pro Tips: Always let the chicken rest after baking for maximum juiciness.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
How to Serve: Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Make-Ahead Tips: Marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight for deeper flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness.
How to Serve: Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Make-Ahead Tips: Marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight for deeper flavor.