Name: Honey Mustard Baked Chicken: 8 Juicy Pieces
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 pieces Chicken drumsticks (fresh, bone-in); 1/2 cup Honey (raw or wildflower); 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper (freshly ground); 1/4 cup Fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish); 2 pieces Lemon wedges (for serving)

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Honey Mustard Baked Chicken has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of family dinners when I was a kid. The smell of that sweet and tangy glaze caramelizing in the oven always meant comfort food was ready. I’ve discovered that this is truly an easy honey mustard baked chicken that anyone can master, even on a busy weeknight. If you’ve ever wondered how to make honey mustard baked chicken that’s incredibly juicy with perfectly crispy skin, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

The flavor is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory that coats every bite.
It’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
These honey mustard chicken drumsticks are a healthier option thanks to baking instead of frying.
It’s a budget-friendly meal that uses simple, readily available ingredients.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for picky eaters and family dinners.
The crispy skin on these honey mustard chicken drumsticks is absolutely divine.
It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with almost any side.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Ingredients

Gathering the ingredients for this simple honey mustard baked chicken is half the fun! You’ll need:

8 pieces chicken drumsticks (fresh, bone-in) – bone-in drumsticks stay wonderfully juicy
1/2 cup honey (raw or wildflower) – the sweetness is key to that beautiful glaze
1/4 cup Dijon mustard – for that signature tang and depth
2 tablespoons olive oil – helps create a lovely, crispy skin
1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds a savory base note
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of smokiness and color
1 teaspoon salt – essential for bringing out all the flavors
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground) – a little kick to balance the sweetness
1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped, for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness at the end
2 pieces lemon wedges (for serving) – a bright, zesty finish

Whisking the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and seasonings together creates the perfect honey mustard chicken marinade baked onto the drumsticks.

How to Make Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Step 1: Let’s get this simple honey mustard baked chicken started! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step is crucial for an even cook.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until everything is beautifully combined. This mixture is your flavor powerhouse!
Step 3: Pat your 8 pieces chicken drumsticks thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a key step for achieving that coveted crispy skin on your oven baked honey mustard chicken.
Step 4: Take half of your delicious honey mustard mixture and coat the drumsticks evenly. Make sure every piece is well-covered. Place the marinated drumsticks into a bowl or resealable bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Arrange the marinated drumsticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s a little space between each piece; this allows the hot air to circulate, giving you that perfect crispy skin we all love on our honey mustard baked chicken.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. You’ll start to smell that wonderful sweet and savory aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 7: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Baste the drumsticks with the reserved honey mustard marinade. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and helps create that gorgeous, sticky glaze on your oven baked honey mustard chicken.
Step 8: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be deeply caramelized and golden brown, and most importantly, cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the drumstick.
Step 9: Once cooked, let your honey mustard baked chicken rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is incredibly tender and moist.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken: 8 Juicy Pieces - Honey Mustard Baked Chicken - additional detail

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is crucial for infusing deep flavor into every bite. This time allows the honey mustard mixture to tenderize the meat and create that signature sweet and savory taste we’re aiming for.

Baking and Glazing

The magic happens in the oven! Baking at 400°F ensures a nice caramelization. Basting halfway through with the reserved marinade creates a beautiful, sticky glaze that makes this oven baked honey mustard chicken absolutely irresistible.

Pro Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years to make my honey mustard baked chicken absolutely perfect. Follow these simple tips, and you’ll be amazed at the results!

Don’t skip patting the chicken dry! This is the key to achieving that glorious crispy skin.
For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken longer – overnight is fantastic for this simple honey mustard chicken bake.
Ensure you give the drumsticks plenty of breathing room on the baking sheet; overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping.
Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What’s the secret to perfect honey mustard baked chicken?

The real secret is the balance of sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard, combined with a good marinade time. This creates that irresistible sweet and savory baked chicken flavor and ensures the chicken stays incredibly moist.

Can I make honey mustard baked chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This makes weeknight dinners even easier!

How do I avoid common mistakes with honey mustard baked chicken?

The most common mistake is not patting the chicken dry, which prevents crispy skin. Another pitfall is overcrowding the pan; always give the chicken space to cook properly.

Best Ways to Serve Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

This versatile honey mustard baked chicken is fantastic with a variety of sides that complement its sweet and tangy profile. For a classic comfort meal, I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to soak up any extra glaze. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some roasted broccoli also makes a perfect, healthy counterpoint.

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, consider pairing your oven baked honey mustard chicken with a flavorful quinoa salad or some grilled asparagus. For a dish that truly sings, a Dijon honey mustard chicken bake pairs wonderfully with a side of sweet potato casserole or even some roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon. It’s a meal that feels special enough for guests but is easy enough for any night of the week.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken: 8 Juicy Pieces - Honey Mustard Baked Chicken - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for this delicious honey mustard baked chicken, per serving:

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Protein: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 400 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Once your delicious honey mustard baked chicken has cooled completely, it’s time to think about storage. For the best quality, place the chicken in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy this fantastic meal even longer, you can freeze it! Wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to reheat, there are a couple of easy ways to bring back that amazing flavor and tenderness. For refrigerated chicken, you can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, adjusting the honey mustard baked chicken cooking time based on how many pieces you’re reheating. You can also reheat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or even in the microwave, though the oven usually gives the best results for maintaining texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

What is honey mustard baked chicken?

Honey mustard baked chicken is simply chicken, typically drumsticks, thighs, or breasts, that have been coated in a sweet and tangy sauce made primarily from honey and mustard, then baked in the oven until tender and caramelized. It’s a beloved comfort food for many because of its approachable flavors and ease of preparation.

Why is honey mustard baked chicken popular?

This dish is incredibly popular because it hits all the right notes: it’s sweet, savory, and a little tangy, making it incredibly appealing to a wide range of palates, especially families. The baking method also results in tender chicken with beautifully glazed, often crispy, skin, without the fuss of frying. It’s a weeknight winner!

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! While this recipe is written for drumsticks, you can easily substitute honey mustard chicken thighs or honey mustard chicken breast. Adjust the baking time as needed; thighs might take a little longer, while breasts may cook slightly faster. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What can I serve with honey mustard baked chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A simple side salad also offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Variations of Honey Mustard Baked Chicken You Can Try

While the drumstick version is amazing, this delicious honey mustard baked chicken is super versatile! Don’t be afraid to experiment with other cuts or even different cooking methods. You can easily swap the drumsticks for honey mustard chicken thighs, simply adjusting the baking time until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a leaner option, try honey mustard chicken breast; these will cook a bit faster, so keep a close eye on them to prevent drying out. You could also try grilling this honey mustard chicken marinade baked onto the pieces for a smoky flavor, or even slow-cooking it for incredibly tender results. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your sauce!