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Garlic Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard & Herb Sauce

Some nights you just want something cozy and satisfying, and this recipe hits the spot. Juicy chicken thighs cooked in the air fryer until golden, paired with simple green veggies, and finished with a quick creamy mustard & herb sauce made in the microwave. It tastes like comfort food but comes together in under 30 minutes.

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The sauce is silky, tangy, and just a little herby, the kind of thing that makes plain chicken feel fancy without you having to try very hard.

What you’ll need

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (or 1 crushed clove)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup asparagus spears
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • A batch of Creamy Mustard & Herb Sauce (recipe here)

How to make it

Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place them in the air fryer at 200°C (390°F) for 10 minutes, flip, and cook for another 8–10 minutes until cooked through and golden.

Meanwhile, toss the asparagus and zucchini with a drizzle of olive oil and a little salt. Add them to the air fryer for the last 8 minutes of cooking so they roast up alongside the chicken.

Make your microwave-friendly Creamy Mustard & Herb Sauce, then spoon it generously over the chicken and veggies. The creamy tang of the mustard sauce is a perfect match for garlicky chicken and green veggies.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Cheesy version: Stir some grated parmesan or cheddar into the sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Different protein: This sauce is amazing with pork chops if you fancy a change.
  • Veggie swap: Broccoli and green beans also pair beautifully with the mustard flavours.
  • Lean option: Use chicken breast instead of thighs, just shorten the cooking time.
  • Extra zing: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for freshness.

This meal is high in protein, packed with flavour, and feels a little bit like a weeknight treat. The best part? You only need your air fryer and microwave, no mountains of dishes to deal with.