Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra color and flavor.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

1. Whisk Together: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard (if using), olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. The sauce should be slightly tangy with a hint of sweetness.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional for Extra Flavor)

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a deeper flavor. You can skip this step if you’re baking the chicken straight away.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the seared (or raw) chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (for breasts) or 35-40 minutes (for thighs), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through for added flavor.
4. Broil (Optional): For a caramelized finish, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Tips:

• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for 1-2 hours before cooking.
• Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the honey mustard sauce in a small saucepan for a few minutes until it reduces and thickens before pouring over the chicken.
• Sides: Pair this dish with a light salad, steamed green beans, or roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced meal.

Conclusion:

This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor. The combination of tangy mustard, sweet honey, and tender chicken creates a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal!