Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken for my family. The blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the chicken a shiny, irresistible finish. Not only is this dish incredibly easy to prepare, but it also delivers bold flavors that leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe always shines through, delivering satisfaction and delight in every bite.
Making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is one of my go-to recipes whenever I'm short on time but still want something special. I love how the ingredients fuse together, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory. Plus, I've learned that marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking really enhances the flavor, ensuring each bite is packed with that delightful honey-mustard goodness.
One specific tip that really transforms this dish is using a high-quality mustard. The tanginess of a good Dijon mustard complements the sweetness of honey beautifully and takes the glaze to another level. Trust me, it's worth the extra effort, and the compliments you get will make you feel like a culinary star!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory and sweet glaze that elevates ordinary chicken
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- A family favorite that's perfect for any occasion
The Importance of Marinating
Marinating the chicken is crucial for developing the flavor profile in Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken. The combination of honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar not only penetrates the meat but also helps to tenderize it. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but allow it to rest in the fridge for up to 2 hours if you can. This longer marination time yields a juicier chicken that’s bursting with flavor.
When marinating, make sure every piece of chicken is well-coated with the mixture. Consider gently massaging the marinade into the chicken breasts within the zip-top bag. This ensures that the flavors adhere well. If time is tight, even a quick 15-minute soak can have a noticeable impact, but more time will certainly enhance the dish.
Achieving the Perfect Bake
Baking the chicken at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C) helps to create that ideal balance between a well-cooked exterior and a moist interior. Be sure to use a lined baking sheet, as this will streamline cleanup and prevent sticking. Depending on your oven’s accuracy, you should check the chicken after the 25-minute mark; the skin should be golden and glossy, indicating it’s time for a temperature check.
To ensure even cooking, you might consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. This technique helps them cook uniformly, preventing the edges from drying out before the center is fully cooked. If you notice that the chicken is browning too quickly before reaching the correct internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to get cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken:
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for best results.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Glaze and Finish
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush additional glaze on the chicken for that perfect sticky finish. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Now you're ready to enjoy a delicious Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add minced garlic or fresh herbs to the marinade. Alternatively, serve the chicken with a side of mixed vegetables or rice to complete your meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the glazed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. I recommend adding a splash of water to the container to help keep the chicken moist during reheating.
For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated chicken before baking. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag with the marinade, seal tightly, and label with the date. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with baking as usual.
Delicious Serving Ideas
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. For a wholesome meal, consider serving it over a bed of steamed quinoa or rice. The nutty flavors complement the sweet glaze perfectly. Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, also make an excellent addition, providing a beautiful color contrast and nutritional balance.
For a fresh touch, a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can brighten the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving the glazes chicken sliced in a sandwich or on top of a burger for a delightful culinary twist.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and then bake it when you're ready. It stores well in the fridge for up to three days.
→ Can I make this recipe with other proteins?
Yes! This marinade also works well with pork tenderloin or tofu for a vegetarian option.
→ What should I serve with Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken?
It pairs excellently with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice.
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken for my family. The blend of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving the chicken a shiny, irresistible finish. Not only is this dish incredibly easy to prepare, but it also delivers bold flavors that leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe always shines through, delivering satisfaction and delight in every bite.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for best results.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
In the last 5 minutes of baking, brush additional glaze on the chicken for that perfect sticky finish. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add minced garlic or fresh herbs to the marinade. Alternatively, serve the chicken with a side of mixed vegetables or rice to complete your meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g