Cooking at home can be both a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially when you have a delicious recipe in hand.
Today, I’m excited to share a fantastic recipe for baked chicken with a honey mustard glaze.
This dish combines the savory flavor of chicken with the sweet and tangy taste of honey mustard, creating a meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Let’s dive into the details.
Ingredients
Before we start, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need:
- 4 chicken thighs (or 4 chicken breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will ensure it’s ready to go when you need to bake the chicken. Next, season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and prepares it for the searing process.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken, skin side down. Cook until the skin is golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side. This searing process locks in the juices and adds a delicious crust to the chicken. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Glaze
While the chicken is searing, you can prepare the honey mustard glaze. In a bowl, mix together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, lemon juice, chopped garlic, thyme, and rosemary. This glaze is the star of the dish, providing a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
4. Bake the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, skin side up. If your skillet is not ovenproof, transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Generously brush the chicken with the honey mustard glaze, ensuring it’s well coated. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat as it bakes, resulting in a deliciously glazed finish.
5. Final Cooking
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the glaze is caramelized. This baking process not only cooks the chicken through but also gives the glaze a beautiful, sticky finish that clings to the meat.
6. Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it even more succulent. Serve the chicken with your choice of sides—roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad all make excellent companions for this dish.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken
- Choosing the Chicken: Whether you use thighs or breasts, ensure they’re fresh and of good quality. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, but breasts are a great option if you prefer leaner meat.
- Searing the Chicken: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a lot of flavor and creates a nice texture on the outside of the chicken.
- Making the Glaze: Feel free to adjust the glaze to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey. For more tang, increase the mustard.
- Cooking Time: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so aim for the perfect internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Conclusion
This baked chicken with honey mustard glaze is a perfect dish for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. So next time you’re looking for a new recipe to try, give this one a go—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy your cooking, and happy eating!