Recipe: Honey Mustard-Baked Chicken

Sweet, tangy, and perfectly baked, this honey-mustard chicken is a crowd-pleaser. It’s ideal for informal gatherings or a simple family dinner. Pair it with a saffron rice pilaf and a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare.

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40–50 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons honey (clear or set)
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon medium curry powder
• 8 chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or drumsticks)
• Lime or lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Honey-Mustard Sauce

   • In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey, Dijon mustard, and curry powder over low heat. Stir until the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth, flavorful paste.

3. Prepare the Chicken

   • Remove the skin from the chicken pieces, if desired. Using a sharp knife, make a few slashes in each piece, cutting down to the bone. This helps the marinade penetrate deeply, infusing the chicken with flavor.
   • Place the chicken pieces in a non-stick roasting pan and pour the honey-mustard sauce over them. Turn the chicken pieces to ensure they’re evenly coated.

4. Bake the Chicken

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally. If the sauce begins to stick to the pan, add a few tablespoons of cold water to prevent burning. The chicken is done when it’s a deep golden-brown color and cooked through.

5. To Serve

   • Arrange the chicken on a serving dish with lime or lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty finish. 

Chef’s Tips

• Dijon or Grainy Mustard: For a smooth, slightly spicy flavor, use Dijon mustard. For a milder, textured finish, try a grainy mustard such as French moutarde de Meaux.

• Perfect Cuts: For eight even pieces, use four whole legs and cut them in half at the joint to create four drumsticks and four thighs.

This Honey-Baked Chicken is as versatile as it is flavorful. The combination of honey, mustard, and curry powder creates a sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and gently spiced—perfect for family meals or casual entertaining. Enjoy this dish with loved ones, knowing that it brings warmth and comfort to any table.