Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a delightful mixture of brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard, creating a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This easy and flavorful dinner option is sure to impress your family and friends.

Emily Carter

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-10-25T13:19:15.676Z

Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a delightful mixture of brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard, creating a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This easy and flavorful dinner option is sure to impress your family and friends.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Combining sweet brown sugar with the sharpness of Dijon mustard creates a harmonious flavor profile that elevates simple chicken thighs into a delightful culinary experience. The caramelization of brown sugar during cooking adds a beautiful glaze that not only enhances the chicken's appearance but also provides a texture contrast that is truly enjoyable. Each bite captures the essence of both sweetness and tanginess, making this dish suitable for various occasions, from intimate family dinners to lively gatherings with friends.

Moreover, the tangy notes from the Dijon mustard cut through the richness of the chicken, ensuring that the dish remains light while still being satisfying. This recipe celebrates the balance between flavors and offers a tasteful twist to one of the most beloved proteins. As you serve these chicken thighs, your guests will be captivated not just by the aroma, but also by the delicious complexity each mouthful delivers.

A Simple, Stress-Free Meal

One of the best aspects of this Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs recipe is its simplicity. With just five main ingredients, it’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight without feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen. The straightforward preparation process allows you to focus on enjoying your time with loved ones rather than getting bogged down by intricate cooking methods. Simply mix your sauce, coat the chicken, and let the oven do the work for you.

In addition to being simple, this recipe also offers versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients to cater to your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, consider using honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness or swapping out chicken thighs for another cut of poultry. This flexibility means you can adapt the dish time and again, ensuring it remains a fresh favorite at every dinner table.

Pairing Suggestions

Ingredients

Ingredients

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake the Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Storage Tips

Leftover Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the chicken moist, it’s best to place a piece of parchment paper between the chicken and the lid to minimize direct contact. When reheating, consider using the oven or a skillet to maintain that crispy skin we all love, rather than the microwave, which may dry it out.

If you find yourself with a larger batch, this dish freezes beautifully. Just ensure it is cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you crave a quick meal later on, delay defrosting overnight in the fridge, and reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop for maximum enjoyment.

Nutritional Information

This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, necessary for muscle repair and growth, making them an excellent choice for active individuals. Additionally, the inclusion of Dijon mustard offers trace minerals like selenium and manganese, known for their antioxidant properties.

While brown sugar adds sweetness, it’s essential to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pair these chicken thighs with a variety of colorful vegetables to create a well-rounded meal that hits all the notes in your diet. By incorporating healthy sides and fresh greens, you can create a nutrient-rich dinner that everyone will love.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and bake it before serving.

Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs

Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with these Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a delightful mixture of brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard, creating a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This easy and flavorful dinner option is sure to impress your family and friends.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emily Carter

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Dijon Chicken Thighs

  1. 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  2. 1/4 cup brown sugar
  3. 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  4. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 03

Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.

Step 04

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.

Step 05

Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g