Honey Mustard Chicken
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the combination of sweet and savory in a dish, and that’s exactly what you get with Honey Mustard Chicken. I still remember the first time I tasted it at a family gathering; the aroma wafting through the air was enough to make my mouth water. As soon as I took a bite, the juicy texture of the chicken paired with the tangy sweetness of the honey mustard took me by surprise. From that moment on, it became a staple in my household, especially on busy weeknights when I crave something easy yet delicious. The best part is how simple it is to prepare! You can whip it up in no time and still impress your guests.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 5 mins
5 mins
60 mins
Medium
290 kcal
24 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
18 g
Glass Mixing Bowl Set (3 piece), 9Ă—13-inch Casserole Dish
Why This Honey Mustard Chicken Hits Different
It’s Quick and Easy
One of the standout features of Honey Mustard Chicken is just how quick it is to make. You can have this dish ready in about an hour, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Simply whisk the sauce together, coat the chicken, and pop it in the oven. While it bakes, you can focus on preparing your sides or simply relax.
Perfectly Flavorful
The combination of honey and mustard creates a flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy. This balance is what makes every bite of Honey Mustard Chicken so satisfying. Each ingredient plays its role in enhancing the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.
Kid-Friendly Delight
If you’re cooking for kids, this dish is a winner. They love the sweetness of the honey, and the chicken is tender and juicy. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming their taste buds. You might find it becoming a regular request at your dinner table!
Versatile Pairing Options
You can pair Honey Mustard Chicken with various sides, from roasted vegetables to fluffy rice. This versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering. You can easily adjust the side dishes based on what you have on hand, making it budget-friendly.
Great for Meal Prep
Another reason I love this recipe is that it’s excellent for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and then bake it right before you need it. This saves you time during the week, and the flavors only get better as they meld together in the fridge.
Healthier Option
Using low sodium soy sauce in this recipe helps keep it on the healthier side without compromising flavor. Plus, the recipe is straightforward to adapt for your dietary needs, whether you’re looking to cut down on calories or increase protein intake.
What to Gather for Honey Mustard Chicken

The beauty of Honey Mustard Chicken lies in its simple yet effective ingredients. Each one contributes to the overall deliciousness of the dish. The key players are the chicken and the honey mustard sauce, which brings everything together beautifully. When combined, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that are sure to please any palate.
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce: This adds depth and umami to the dish. Low sodium helps keep it healthier.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes: A little kick to balance out the sweetness of the honey.
- 2 tablespoons honey: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon grainy mustard: Adds texture and tang, enhancing the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in cooking and adds richness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: For an extra layer of flavor.
- 6 chicken drumsticks: The main protein, tender and juicy when cooked right.
Cooking Instructions for Honey Mustard Chicken

Cooking Honey Mustard Chicken is a breeze. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Preheat your oven to 375℉. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly from the moment it goes in. A properly preheated oven is key to achieving that perfect golden-brown color.
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chili flakes, honey, mustard, olive oil, and salt and pepper until it emulsifies. This only takes about 30 seconds to a minute and creates a beautifully glossy sauce that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Next, take your chicken drumsticks and place them in a baking dish, preferably one that’s about 9×13 inches. Make sure they fit comfortably; you don’t want them overcrowded.
Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is nicely coated in the mixture. Use a spoon to help distribute the sauce evenly if necessary. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors will seep into the chicken as it cooks.
Now, bake the chicken for about an hour or until it’s cooked through. The skin should be crispy and golden, and the juices should run clear when pierced. You can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the chicken for a few hours in the sauce prior to cooking to deepen the flavors.
- Check Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to increase the amount of chili flakes for a spicier kick if desired.
- Even Cooking: Turn the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There’s always room for creativity in cooking! Here are some tips to help you adapt Honey Mustard Chicken to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Pairing: Try serving it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have drumsticks, you can use breasts or thighs, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different mustards or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
What to Serve With Honey Mustard Chicken
When it comes to serving Honey Mustard Chicken, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic pairing ideas:
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender complements the sweetness of the chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes for a delicious base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Baked Potatoes: Creamy baked potatoes topped with a sprinkle of herbs make a comforting side.
- Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can serve as a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve this dish for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
FAQ
Conclusion
Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess, making it a hit for any dinner occasion. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering flavor, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a household favorite. I encourage you to give it a try; you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375℉.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chili flakes, honey, mustard, olive oil, and salt and pepper until it emulsifies.
- Place chicken drumsticks in a baking dish, ensuring they fit comfortably.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Bake for about an hour or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- Using low sodium soy sauce: This prevents the dish from becoming overly salty.
- Substituting chicken: Drumsticks can be replaced with thighs or breasts, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
- Spice it up: Increase chili flakes for a spicier version.
- Marinating: Consider marinating the chicken for a few hours for deeper flavor.
- Turn halfway: Remember to turn the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Check temperature: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).


