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: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Meal Recipes

I love making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken when I want something both sweet and savory on the dinner table. The combination of honey, mustard, and soy sauce creates a delectable glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking, resulting in juicy, flavor-packed chicken. The balance of flavors and the simple cooking method make this dish a favorite in our home. Plus, it's quick enough for a weeknight dinner while still impressive enough for guests. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:21:28.010Z

When I first tried my hand at making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken, I was amazed by how the simple blend of flavors transformed the chicken into something truly special. The trick lies in letting the chicken marinate long enough for the flavors to soak in deeply, enhancing the overall taste. This dish quickly became a weeknight favorite in my kitchen.

I recommend using skinless chicken thighs for this recipe as they remain juicy and tender during cooking, absorbing the honey mustard glaze beautifully. Remember to keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks; a little caramelization goes a long way in developing the flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect sweet and tangy balance of honey and mustard
Caramelized exterior that locks in moisture
Quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights

Marinade Magic

The marinade for Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is where all the magic begins. The honey acts not just as a sweetener but also as a natural tenderizer, helping to keep the chicken moist while it cooks. Dijon mustard contributes a tangy flavor that wonderfully complements the sweetness of the honey; together, they help create a rich and glossy glaze. Don't rush this stage—allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor significantly, but letting it sit for 2 hours is even better.

As the chicken marinates, the minced garlic infuses aromatic notes into the mix. If you're short on time but still want that punch of flavor, consider using garlic powder as a substitute, though fresh garlic lends a more vibrant taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce can elevate the dish even more.

Cooking Techniques

When baking the marinated chicken, it’s essential to use a lined baking sheet. This not only prevents sticking but also makes for easy cleanup. Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks—bake it until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for safely cooked, juicy meat. The chicken should have a lovely golden brown exterior, indicating that the sugars in the honey are caramelizing beautifully. If you aim for a bit more crispiness, you can broil it for a minute or two right at the end of cooking.

Remember not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, bake the chicken in batches to allow proper air circulation, which helps achieve that desirable caramelized texture. Overcrowding can result in steamed chicken rather than baked, leading to less flavorful results. Keep an instant-read thermometer handy to check for doneness without cutting into the chicken, preserving its juiciness.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I often serve it alongside steamed vegetables and fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the excess glaze. For a more casual feel, you could also shred the chicken and toss it into a salad or wrap for an easy lunch option. Don't forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added burst of color and flavor.

If you're looking to prep this dish ahead of time, the marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, the glazed chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to prevent drying out, or cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in short intervals. You can also freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Ingredients for Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

Main Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste

Enjoy your meal!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Glaze and Serve

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with any remaining marinade for extra flavor. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.

That's it! Enjoy your dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade.

Ingredient Insights

Honey plays a dual role in this recipe. Not only does it provide sweetness, but it also helps create a beautiful glaze that sticks to the chicken as it bakes. Look for a high-quality, raw honey if possible; it will have a more complex flavor than standard processed honey. If you're in a pinch, agave syrup can serve as a suitable alternative, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

Dijon mustard is the traditional choice here because of its creamy texture and balanced tang. However, you can experiment with whole grain mustard for a more rustic texture or even honey mustard for extra sweetness. Each substitution will provide a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

Creating a meal prep plan around this dish is simple. You can prepare the marinade and slice the chicken the night before, allowing for quick assembly the next day. The cooked chicken also makes an excellent addition to meal prep bowls. Pair it with roasted vegetables and grains for a complete, balanced meal throughout the week.

Leftovers from Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken can be repurposed into various dishes. Shred the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce for sandwiches or tacos. Alternatively, chop it up for use in casseroles or stir-fries, making it a versatile choice for easy weeknight meals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your chicken isn't achieving the desired caramelization, it may be due to insufficient cooking time or temperature. Make sure your oven is preheated properly, and consider using a convection setting if you have one. This promotes even cooking and helps develop that beautiful outer glaze.

On the other hand, if your chicken turns out overcooked and dry, you can remedy the situation by slicing it thinly and serving it with a sauce or dressing. Alternatively, ensure that you consistently check the internal temperature during cooking to prevent drying out next time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may require a shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours for best results, but even 30 minutes will add good flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

→ What sides pair well with Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken?

It goes well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.