Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes
I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken for my family during special occasions. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a deliciously balanced glaze that not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also caramelizes beautifully while baking. I find that marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to truly penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicy, flavorful dish. It’s become a go-to recipe because it’s easy to prepare and certain to impress anyone at the dinner table.
When I first tried my hand at honey mustard glazed chicken, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet incredible the flavors were. The trick is to find a quality honey that adds natural sweetness without being overly cloying. I also make sure to use dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard for an extra depth of flavor.
One evening, I decided to serve this dish during a family gathering, and it was gone in minutes! Everyone loved the tender chicken coated in that sticky, flavorful glaze. It’s definitely a recipe I plan to keep on repeat in our house.
You'll Love This Recipe Because
- The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
- Quick to prepare, yet elegant for dinner parties
- Juicy chicken that pairs well with any side dish
Mastering the Marinade
The marinade for Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken plays a crucial role in both flavor and tenderness. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard not only creates a delicious glaze but also helps to tenderize the chicken. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is ideal for deeper flavor absorption. If you're short on time, you can even substitute a store-bought honey mustard dressing to save on prep time without sacrificing too much flavor.
When marinating, ensure that the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. For best results, you may use a resealable plastic bag, which helps to distribute the marinade evenly. If you notice that the marinade is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water to achieve a more liquid consistency, which aids in better coverage of the chicken.
Baking to Perfection
After marinating, the baking step is simple yet crucial for achieving that caramelized, sticky glaze. It's essential to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be placed in a single layer in the baking dish. If you're using larger chicken breasts, consider increasing the baking time to 30-35 minutes to make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of the cooking time; it should have a beautiful golden-brown exterior and, if desired, you can switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a more caramelized finish. Just be cautious to avoid burning the glaze—a quick glance at the oven will help you achieve that perfect finish without overdoing it.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to whip up the perfect honey mustard glazed chicken!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to prepare the honey mustard glazed chicken.
Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Arrange and Bake
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy this delightful meal with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade for a tangy twist.
Flavor Variations
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the marinade. This can deepen the umami flavor, giving the dish a savory twist. You can also experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy brown, to change the flavor profile while maintaining that lovely sweet and tangy balance.
Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade can elevate the dish further. I enjoy using fresh herbs, but if you're out, dried herbs work well too. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as dried herbs are more potent—typically about a third of the amount you'd use for fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic plate, try serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. The flavors complement starchy sides wonderfully and can balance out the dish's sweetness. Roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts also work really well to add color and nutrition.
If you want to serve this dish for a crowd, consider making mini sliders using the cooked chicken and adding a bit of slaw. This transforms the recipe into a fun appetizer perfect for gatherings. Another option is to slice the baked chicken and use it in wraps or grain bowls topped with extra honey mustard dressing for a delicious and filling meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and will remain juicy due to their higher fat content.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ What should I serve with honey mustard glazed chicken?
This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the mustard used is gluten-free, and it will be suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken for my family during special occasions. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a deliciously balanced glaze that not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also caramelizes beautifully while baking. I find that marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight allows the flavors to truly penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicy, flavorful dish. It’s become a go-to recipe because it’s easy to prepare and certain to impress anyone at the dinner table.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the marinade for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 21g
- Protein: 38g