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Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken is an easy and juicy baked dish featuring a perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard. This flavorful glaze locks in moisture to make tender, succulent chicken pieces ideal for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. With simple pantry ingredients and speedy cooking, this recipe delivers a comforting and delicious meal enjoyed by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts, about 4-6 pieces

Honey Mustard Marinade

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 23 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Herbs and Variations

  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for spicy kick (optional)
  • Smoked paprika or smoked mustard for smoky flavor (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Place your chicken pieces in a baking dish or large zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to a few hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
  3. Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken pieces skin-side up in a single layer in a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade on top. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns golden and caramelized.
  4. Broil for Extra Crispness: If you prefer a crispier skin, switch the oven to broil in the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning while getting that gorgeous golden finish.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle and keep the meat moist.

Notes

  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces for juicier results.
  • Pat chicken dry before marinating for better caramelization.
  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
  • Rest chicken after baking to lock in moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Mustard Chicken, Baked Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Juicy Baked Chicken, Weeknight Dinner, Gluten Free Chicken