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A collection of savory chicken thigh recipes displayed on a rustic wooden table.

Zesty Dijon Chicken Thighs

Enjoy flavorful Zesty Dijon Chicken Thighs with crispy skin. This recipe is simple to make and can be baked in the oven or air-fried for a delicious meal everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Paper towels
  • Medium bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for boneless/skinless
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin and trim any excess fat.
  • Combine chicken thighs and Dijon mustard in a bowl; add olive oil if using boneless/skinless thighs.
  • Rub mustard generously over each thigh, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavor.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Cooking

  • Arrange chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in the air fryer basket, ensuring space between each piece.
  • Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes (bone-in) or 20-30 minutes (boneless) until 165°F (74°C), broiling for the last 2-3 minutes for crispiness.
  • Air fry for 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Resting

  • Remove chicken and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to redistribute juices for tender chicken.

Notes

For even crispier skin, ensure chicken is thoroughly patted dry before applying the mustard. Adjust cooking times based on your oven or air fryer and the thickness of the chicken thighs. You can serve this with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.