As I reached into the pantry for ingredients, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken has been a favorite in my home, evoking memories of family dinners filled with laughter and shared stories. This oven-baked marvel achieves the perfect balance of comfort food and sophistication with its crispy crumb crust. It’s not just an easy dinner option—it’s a dish that transforms any night into a special occasion. With simple swaps, like using buttermilk in place of wine and fresh breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch, this version elevates the classic. Perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests, Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken is sure to impress everyone around your table. Are you ready to bring this taste of joy to your kitchen?
Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The robust combination of Dijon mustard and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that’s both familiar and exciting.
Golden Crunch: With its crispy breadcrumb topping, every bite offers a satisfying crunch that complements the succulent chicken inside.
Time-Saving: Prep is simple—just marinate and bake—making it a quick solution for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
Family Favorite: This dish boasts high crowd appeal; it’s guaranteed to win over both kids and adults alike, much like my popular Hearty Chicken Vegetable stew!
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with seasonal roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a complete meal that fits any occasion.
Easily Adaptable: Feel free to swap out the buttermilk or try different herbs for a personal touch, giving this classic your unique spin!
Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken – Provides moisture and flavor, crucial for ensuring tenderness in your dish.
For the Marinade
• Dijon Mustard – ½ cup for a tangy punch that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.
• Buttermilk – ½ cup to tenderize the chicken; substitute with milk and lemon juice if unavailable.
• Garlic – 4 peeled cloves that infuse the marinade with rich flavor; adjust to personal taste preference.
• Fresh Thyme – A small handful for a hint of herbal freshness; feel free to swap for rosemary if desired.
• Lemon Zest – From one lemon to add a bright, zesty note that complements the mustard beautifully.
• Salt – 1½ tsp, adjusted to taste, to enhance the overall flavors in the dish.
• Black Pepper – 1 tsp, freshly cracked, for a subtle heat that rounds out the seasoning.
For the Crust
• Fresh Breadcrumbs – 2 cups create a delightful crunch; can be made from day-old bread for best results.
• Olive Oil – ¼ cup to help the breadcrumb coating crisp up nicely in the oven.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the perfect Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken that your family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large ziplock bag, combine ½ cup of buttermilk and ½ cup of Dijon mustard, mixing well. Add the bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or ideally overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize beautifully.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to create the perfect environment for roasting. As the oven heats up, prepare your kitchen by gathering all necessary equipment, including a food processor, shallow dish, and a foil-lined baking sheet, ensuring everything is ready for the next steps.
Step 3: Prepare the Crumb Mixture
In your food processor, add 4 peeled garlic cloves, 2 cups of fresh breadcrumbs, and a handful of fresh thyme. Pulse until finely minced and well combined. Next, add the lemon zest, 1½ teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper. While pulsing, drizzle in ¼ cup of olive oil, which will create a cohesive and flavorful crumb mixture.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Transfer the breadcrumb mixture into a shallow dish. Taking the marinated chicken from the fridge, press each piece, skin side down, into the crumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial as it provides the crispy finishing touch that makes Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken so delectable.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared foil-lined baking sheet, skin side up. For a beautiful presentation, carefully sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over any exposed areas. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) with a golden, crispy exterior.
Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness
Once the chicken is cooked, if you desire a deeper golden color, switch the oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning, allowing the crispy crust to develop further. Once perfectly browned, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once rested, transfer the crispy chicken to a serving platter to showcase the beautiful golden crust. Pair Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken with your favorite side dishes, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, creating a delightful meal that’s bound to impress family and friends alike.
What to Serve with Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken
Creating a delightful meal around this crispy chicken recipe can elevate any dining experience.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables:
The caramelized sweetness of roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts brings a vibrant balance to the savory chicken. A colorful veggie medley not only enhances the plate but also offers a wholesome counterpart. -
Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
These creamy, buttery mashed potatoes soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken, making every bite a comforting embrace. A classic favorite that guarantees satisfaction for the whole family! -
Tangy Cucumber Salad:
A crisp cucumber salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, brightening each bite of chicken. The crunchiness pairs beautifully, making for a lively and enjoyable meal. -
Homemade Coleslaw:
The creamy and tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and delightful flavor that complements the crispy chicken. It’s an excellent side that offers both flavor and color on your dinner table. -
Warm Bread Rolls:
Fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the juices from the mustard chicken, making every bite a pleasure. They add an inviting warmth that brings everyone together at the table. -
Chardonnay or Sparkling Wine:
A chilled glass of Chardonnay or bubbly complements the earthy flavors of the chicken and enhances your meal’s overall indulgence. It’s an elegant choice that appeals to both dinner parties and relaxed evenings at home. -
Apple Crisp:
For dessert, serve a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. This sweet treat rounds off the meal perfectly, with hints of cinnamon and buttery crust providing a delightful contrast to the savory main dish. -
Herbed Quinoa:
A light and nutty quinoa dish infused with herbs packs a nutritious punch and makes for a lovely, textural counterpoint to the chicken. A filling option that feels both gourmet and wholesome.
Each of these pairings not only complements Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken beautifully but also weaves a tapestry of flavors and textures that will keep your loved ones coming back for more.
Expert Tips for Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken
• Marinating Time: Longer is better—let the chicken soak overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness. This ensures the best results for Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken.
• Breadcrumb Consistency: Make sure your breadcrumbs are not too fine; they should be coarse enough to provide that perfect crunchy texture.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
• Even Sizes: Try to use chicken pieces that are similar in size to promote even cooking; larger cuts need more time in the oven.
• Crispier Crust: If you want an extra-crispy topping, broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end, but keep a watchful eye to avoid burning.
How to Store and Freeze Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the crust remains crispy.
Serving: Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy; reheating in the oven is ideal to preserve the delightful crunch of the coating.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk and Dijon mustard mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, the breadcrumb mixture can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated chicken, bake it in the preheated oven, and enjoy that irresistible golden crunch just as if you’d made it fresh. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade dish with minimal effort, ensuring that family dinners remain stress-free and satisfying!
Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—you won’t regret experimenting with flavors and textures!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of buttermilk for a rich, creamy marinade without dairy. The gentle sweetness enhances the mustard’s tanginess beautifully.
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Herb Swap: Try fresh rosemary instead of thyme for a more earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with chicken. It brings a distinctive aroma that elevates the dish.
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Garlic-Free: Omit garlic for a milder taste, or substitute it with garlic powder for a less pungent option while still keeping some flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat that will awaken your taste buds. It’s a delightful twist for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
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Breadcrumb Boost: Enhance the crunch by mixing in a quarter cup of grated Parmesan with the breadcrumbs. The cheese will give an irresistible richness to the crust.
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Lemon Zest Variation: Incorporate lime zest instead of lemon for a refreshing twist that adds a unique citrus flavor—perfect for summer nights!
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Pan-Fried Texture: For a crunchier bite, pan-fry the chicken in olive oil before baking. This results in a delightful crispy texture reminiscent of fried chicken.
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Flavor Fusion: Try adding smoked paprika to the crumb mixture for a smoky flavor that gives a delicious depth to the chicken. It’s like a summer BBQ on your plate!
Embrace the joy of cooking by infusing your personal touch into each variation. And if you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, don’t miss my comforting Smothered Chicken or delightful Chicken Poivre!
Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken, choose bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts and thighs. These cuts not only provide the moisture and flavor necessary for perfect results, but the skin also helps create that delectable crispy crust.
How long can I store the cooked chicken in the fridge?
Very! You can store leftover Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the freshness may start to decline, so it’s best to enjoy it sooner rather than later.
Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken? How?
Absolutely! To freeze the chicken, let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture.
What’s the best way to reheat my mustard chicken without losing its crispiness?
I often recommend reheating it in the oven to preserve that delicious crunch. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy!
What substitutions can I make for dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! If you need to accommodate dietary needs, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic its tang. If you’re managing allergies, ensure that the Dijon mustard you use is free from any components you need to avoid.
What should I do if the crust isn’t crispy enough?
Don’t worry! If your crust isn’t as crispy as you’d like, try broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close watch to avoid burning, and you’ll achieve that golden, crunchy finish that makes this dish special.
Crispy Ina Garten’s Mustard Chicken: A Family Favorite Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large ziplock bag, combine ½ cup of buttermilk and ½ cup of Dijon mustard, mixing well. Add the chicken pieces, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a food processor, add 4 garlic cloves, 2 cups of fresh breadcrumbs, and thyme. Pulse until minced. Add lemon zest, 1½ tsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper. Drizzle in ¼ cup olive oil while pulsing.
- Transfer the breadcrumb mixture to a shallow dish. Press each marinated chicken piece into the crumbs to coat.
- Arrange the coated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet, skin side up. Sprinkle remaining crumbs over exposed areas. Bake for about 40 minutes until cooked through.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Let chicken rest for a few minutes before transferring it to a serving platter.
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