Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

Name: Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/3 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 chicken breasts; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken for my family. It's one of those recipes that feels both special and incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a glaze that melds perfectly with the juicy chicken. I often whip this dish up on busy weeknights or whenever I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a winner every time!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:02:27.349Z

When I first came across the idea of honey mustard chicken, I was skeptical. However, after trying it, I realized how beautifully the flavors work together! The sweetness of the honey complements the sharp mustard, and the result is a perfectly balanced glaze that not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist.

One trick I learned is to marinate the chicken briefly in the glaze before cooking. This step enhances the flavor and ensures that every bite is bursting with that delightful honey mustard goodness. Trust me, it’s worth that extra 10 minutes!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and tangy glaze that tantalizes your taste buds
Juicy chicken infused with rich flavors
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Unlocking Flavor with the Marinade

The marinade in this Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. Honey not only adds sweetness but also helps to create a beautifully caramelized exterior when baked. The Dijon mustard provides a sharp contrast that enhances the chicken's natural taste. Make sure to whisk the marinade thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld perfectly before coating the chicken. This balance of sweet and tangy is what makes this dish genuinely memorable.

If you're looking to adjust the flavor profile, you can experiment with different mustards for the marinade. Whole grain mustard offers a rustic texture and slightly nutty flavor, while spicy brown mustard adds a bit more heat. For a sweet twist, mix in some maple syrup instead of honey. Remember, the key to a good marinade is finding the balance between acidity, sweetness, and seasoning.

Perfect Baking Techniques

Baking the marinated chicken at the right temperature is essential for achieving juicy, tender results. Preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) allows the chicken to cook evenly without drying out. It's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you prefer a crispy finish, consider broiling the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking to achieve that golden, glossy glaze.

While baking, ensure the chicken is spread out on the baking sheet, allowing enough space for heat circulation. If they're too close together, they might steam rather than bake, resulting in a less desirable texture. You can line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and a non-stick surface.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate your Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken, consider serving it alongside seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad. Roasted broccoli or steamed green beans pair well, bringing balance to the richness of the glaze. I often serve it over a bed of quinoa or couscous to soak up any excess sauce, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. For a twist, try adding some roasted nuts or seeds for a satisfying crunch.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the fridge. When you're ready, simply bake it; you'll enjoy the benefits of deeper flavors without any extra effort. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave, preserving that delightful glaze.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

For the Marinade and Glaze

1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a small 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 resealable bag or shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature (or longer in the fridge for more flavor).

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the chicken is marinating.

Bake the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and brush with half of the reserved marinade. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Glaze and Serve

During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with the remaining marinade. Once done, remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding garlic powder or a splash of soy sauce to the marinade. If you prefer grilling, this recipe works wonderfully on the grill as well!

Ingredient Tips

Choosing quality chicken breasts is key to the success of this dish. Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts to ensure the marinade can penetrate evenly, resulting in tender and juicy meat. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work wonderfully as well; just extend the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.

When it comes to honey, using a local raw honey can amplify the flavor profile and add a unique touch to your glaze. The flavor of honey can vary greatly depending on its origin, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different varieties. This can surprisingly enhance the overall experience of eating this dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To properly store leftover Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days and maintain its flavor well. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to reheat your chicken, avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Instead, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This step helps restore some of the chicken's moisture and texture without compromising the glaze.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken turns out dry, it may have been cooked for too long. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, and consider reducing the cooking time slightly if your pieces are smaller. Additionally, a lack of marinade can impact moisture, so always ensure you're coating the chicken adequately before baking.

For a less sweet outcome, reduce the amount of honey gradually to suit your taste. Alternatively, if you find the glaze too tangy, consider adding a bit more honey or a touch of brown sugar to balance the flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! This glaze works well with thighs, drumsticks, or even wings.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in the fridge for an even more intense flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.

→ Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can mix the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.