I have always been on the hunt for chicken recipes that are both quick and packed with flavor, and Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a glaze that clings perfectly to the juicy chicken, giving each bite an irresistible taste. What I love most is how easy it is to get that perfectly caramelized exterior without spending hours in the oven or over the stove.
Cooking with an air fryer has completely transformed my weeknight dinners. Not only does it cut down on oil and mess, but it also locks in all the moisture of the chicken thighs, leaving them tender and succulent. Every time I serve this recipe, it feels like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home. The sweet and tangy flavor, combined with a golden crisp skin, makes this a recipe I always come back to when I want something comforting yet simple.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Thighs:
I prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe because they stay incredibly juicy while cooking. The skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, creating a savory contrast to the sweet honey mustard glaze.
Honey:
Honey adds the perfect natural sweetness to balance the tangy mustard. It helps the glaze caramelize on the chicken, giving it a golden-brown finish that looks as good as it tastes.
Dijon Mustard:
Dijon mustard gives a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken while complementing the honey’s sweetness. It also helps the glaze cling to the chicken during air frying.
Olive Oil:
Olive oil lightly coats the chicken, helping it crisp up and giving a smooth texture to the glaze. It also prevents the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket.
Garlic Powder:
Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile of the chicken without overpowering the honey mustard. It infuses a subtle aromatic note that elevates the dish.
Salt and Pepper:
Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential. Salt enhances the flavors of the glaze, while freshly cracked black pepper adds a slight bite that balances the sweetness.
Paprika (Optional):
Paprika adds a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken, making it even more visually appealing and flavorful.
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer and ensures the glaze sticks better.
Make the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Coat the Chicken
Brush the honey mustard glaze generously over the chicken thighs, making sure to cover both sides and under the skin if possible. Reserve a small amount of the glaze for basting later.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy skin.
Cook the Chicken
Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with reserved glaze, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.
Rest Before Serving
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the air fryer. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use skin-on chicken for the best crispiness.
- Pat the chicken dry before glazing to help the glaze stick and create a caramelized crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Flip halfway through cooking for even crisping and golden color.
- Adjust sweetness and tanginess by adding more honey or mustard to taste.
- Optional garnishes like fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster, so reduce the air frying time to 12-15 minutes and check for doneness.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely. You can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway through.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.
Can I freeze these chicken thighs?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this chicken?
This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh side salad.