If you’re on the hunt for a dish that hits all the right notes crispy, sweet, tangy, and downright satisfying this Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs with Roasted Carrots is about to become your new favorite. Imagine that golden, crunchy skin with a perfect balance of sticky brown sugar and tangy mustard glaze, paired with tender, naturally sweet roasted carrots that melt in your mouth. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs with Roasted Carrots

This recipe isn’t just about great flavor; it’s about creating a meal that’s fuss-free yet unforgettable:

Versatile: Great for casual dinners or even meal prep for the week.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and fresh veggies without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: Roasting does the hard work, so you can relax while dinner cooks.
Customizable: Swap carrots for other root veggies or tweak the glaze to your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combo of sweet, tangy, and crispy textures is sure to win over everyone at the table.

Ingredients in Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs with Roasted Carrots

Here’s what brings this delicious meal together:

Chicken Thighs: Skin-on, bone-in for maximum crispiness and juicy flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a sticky sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.
Dijon Mustard: Gives a tangy kick that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Garlic and Spices: Elevate the flavor with a touch of warmth and zest.
Carrots: Roasted to tender, sweet perfection alongside the chicken.

(Note: the full ingredients list including measurements is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Ready to get that crispy, golden goodness? Let’s go!

Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) for perfect roasting.

Prepare the Chicken Glaze

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, pepper, and any favorite spices.

Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry and generously coat each piece with the glaze.

Prepare the Carrots

Peel and slice carrots, toss with a bit of oil, salt, and pepper.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet and arrange the carrots around them.

Roast to Crispy Perfection

Roast for 35-40 minutes until chicken skin is crisp and carrots are tender, flipping carrots halfway through.

Let It Rest

Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs with Roasted Carrots

Serve this dish with a simple green salad or steamed rice to soak up the delicious glaze. A side of roasted potatoes or crusty bread also pairs beautifully.

Additional Tips

– For extra crispiness, pat chicken skin dry before glazing.
– Add a splash of lemon juice over the carrots before roasting for brightness.
– Leftovers reheat well in the oven to keep skin crispy.
– Try swapping mustard varieties for different flavor profiles.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure everything roasts evenly.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but bone-in will give you juicier meat and crispier skin.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I use other vegetables instead of carrots?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts work great.

4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken in the glaze overnight for extra flavor.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free mustard and check spice labels.

6. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil the surface.

7. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the glaze for heat.

8. How long do leftovers keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

9. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze cooked chicken and carrots in portions for up to 2 months.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?
Try a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

Conclusion

Crispy Brown Sugar Mustard Chicken Thighs with Roasted Carrots strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory all wrapped up in irresistible crispy skin and tender roasted veggies. It’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough to serve guests. So go ahead, try this recipe and watch it quickly become a dinner table favorite!

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