Baked Crispy Chicken Thighs
Crispy baked chicken thighs coated in a sweet mustard‑honey glaze with a hint of ginger, perfect for a quick weekday dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow bowl combine butter, bread crumbs, salt, mustard, honey, lemon juice, ginger, crushed garlic, and black pepper.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and gently press the crumb mixture onto each thigh until evenly coated.
- Place the coated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack.
- Bake for 35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture. If you don't have dried bread crumbs, crushed cornflakes or panko work well as substitutes. Make sure to pat the chicken thighs dry to help the coating adhere better. For a spicy kick, try mixing in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These baked crispy chicken thighs are delicious served alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. They also pair well with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful juices. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Aunt Cille'S Baked Chicken Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain their crispiness compared to microwaving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Crispy Chicken Thighs contains roughly 418 calories, with 4g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?
While skinless chicken thighs can be used, they won't have the same crispy texture as skin-on thighs. The skin helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor. If you prefer skinless, consider using a bit more oil or butter in the crumb mixture to enhance moisture.
How do I ensure my chicken thighs are cooked through?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check doneness. Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part to ensure the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.
Can I prepare the crumb mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the crumb mixture a day ahead. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before coating the chicken thighs for easier handling and better adherence.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).