Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! These Creamy Mustard Baked Chicken Thighs are not just another chicken recipe - they're a perfect harmony of crispy, golden skin, tender meat, and a luxuriously creamy mustard sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary enthusiast, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken thighs cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Whisk them together until smooth and well blended. This mixture will create a creamy, tangy sauce for the chicken.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- While the chicken is searing, season the top side of the thighs with salt, pepper, and thyme. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it bakes.
- Once the chicken is browned, carefully flip the thighs over so that the skin side is facing up. Pour the creamy mustard mixture over the chicken, ensuring each thigh is well coated.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
- After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve the creamy mustard baked chicken thighs hot, spooning any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top. Pair with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Always opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. The bone helps distribute heat evenly, and the skin provides that coveted crispy texture.
- Searing is Key: Don't skip the searing step! This technique locks in flavor and creates a beautiful golden-brown crust that adds depth to your dish.
- Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
- Sauce Consistency: If you want a thicker sauce, you can reduce it on the stovetop after removing the chicken or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with herbs. While thyme is classic, rosemary or sage can also complement the mustard cream sauce beautifully.
- Let it Rest: Always allow your chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad to balance the rich, creamy sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 180mg
