Name: Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 85 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken ((4-pound)); to taste Kosher salt; to taste Ground black pepper; 1 bunch green onions ((chopped)); 8 small onions ((peeled)); ¼ cup Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter ((⅛ stick, melted)); ⅛ cup honey; 4 tablespoons lemon juice ((from 2 lemons)); 5 cloves garlic ((chopped))

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The first time I made Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken, it was a chilly afternoon in the fall. I remember the air was crisp, and the leaves were turning beautiful shades of orange and brown. I wanted to create something special for my family, something that would fill the house with an irresistible aroma. As I gathered my ingredients, I could already imagine the tender, juicy chicken with a rich glaze of honey and mustard, roasting away in the oven. The combination of flavors seemed perfect for a cozy family dinner. Each bite promised to be a delightful blend of sweet and savory, creating a warm atmosphere that only home-cooked meals can provide.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
85 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Why This Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken Shines

A Comforting Classic

What I love most about this Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken is that it combines simplicity with bold flavors. Roasting a whole chicken can seem intimidating, but this recipe makes it accessible and achievable for even the novice cook. The ingredients are straightforward, yet the result is nothing short of impressive.

Perfect for Fall Gatherings

This dish is ideal for fall gatherings. The warm flavors of honey and mustard evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia. When I serve this at family dinners, it becomes the centerpiece of the table, where everyone gathers around to share stories and laughter.

Easy to Customize

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to play around with spices or add some herbs for an extra flavor kick. This flexibility means that every time you prepare it, you can create a slightly different version that still delights your taste buds.

Meal Prep Friendly

This dish is also fantastic for meal prepping. I often make extra to enjoy throughout the week. Leftover chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or soups, making it a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying different meals.

Family Favorite

Lastly, the best part about this Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken is how much my family loves it. It consistently receives rave reviews, and the kids can’t get enough of the sweet glaze. Seeing their faces light up when they take their first bite is what keeps me coming back to this recipe time and again.

What to Gather for Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making a delicious meal. In the case of Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken, each ingredient plays a vital role. The star of the dish is, of course, the whole chicken, which provides a juicy and flavorful base. The honey and mustard combination adds a delightful sweetness and tanginess that perfectly complements the savory notes of the chicken.

1 (4-pound) whole chicken – The main attraction of this dish, providing tenderness and flavor.
Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
Ground black pepper – Adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
1 bunch green onions (chopped) – Adds freshness and flavor when stuffed inside the chicken.
8 small onions (peeled) – These will caramelize during roasting, adding sweetness and depth.
¼ cup Dijon mustard – Provides a tangy base for the glaze, complementing the honey.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick, melted) – Adds richness to the glaze.
⅛ cup honey – The sweetener that brings the glaze together.
4 tablespoons lemon juice (from 2 lemons) – Brightens the dish with acidity, balancing the sweetness.
5 cloves garlic (chopped) – Provides aromatic depth to the glaze.

Recipe Directions for Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken

Cooking Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken is a simple yet satisfying process. Follow these steps to create a flavorful meal that will impress everyone at the table.

Preheat your oven to 355℉. This temperature is perfect for roasting and allows the chicken to cook evenly while achieving a lovely golden color.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and grease a large baking dish. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with a kitchen towel. This step helps to ensure a crispy skin once cooked.
Place the chicken breast-side-up in the baking dish. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper both inside and out. This seasoning is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor.
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, unsalted butter, honey, lemon juice, and garlic. This mixture will serve as a glaze that infuses the chicken with flavor.
Rub the honey mustard mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin as well. This ensures that each bite is flavorful and moist.
Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the chopped green onions and small onions. This not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
Roast the chicken in the oven for 1 hour 25 minutes, with the legs pointing inside the oven. Baste the chicken halfway through cooking with the pan juices to enhance moisture and flavor.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy result.

Things Worth Knowing

Brining: For extra juicy meat and flavor, consider brining the chicken before cooking. This process enhances moisture retention.
Cooking Temperature: Roasting at 355℉ is ideal for achieving a perfect roast. If your chicken is a different weight, it generally takes about 20 minutes per pound to roast at this temperature.
Covering: If the skin is browning too quickly, cover the chicken with foil. Remove it towards the end of cooking for a crispy finish.
Leftover Bones: After carving, use the bones to make homemade chicken broth or stock. It’s a great way to utilize every part of the bird.

Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous or want to switch things up, here are some variations to make your Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken experience even better.

Add Herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the glaze for an aromatic boost.
Change the Mustard: Experiment with different types of mustard, like whole grain or spicy mustard, to alter the flavor profile.
Marinade: Try marinating the chicken in the glaze overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
Vegetable Sides: Roast a variety of vegetables alongside the chicken for a complete one-pan meal.
Use Chicken Thighs: For a different texture, use bone-in chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken.
Serve with Gravy: Make a simple gravy from the pan drippings for added richness.

What to Serve With Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken

Pairing sides with your Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken can elevate your meal even further. Here are some ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts complements the chicken beautifully.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve with a side of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices.
Salads: A fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a classic pairing with roasted chicken.
Biscuits: Homemade biscuits are perfect for sopping up the glaze.
Seasonal Fruits: Incorporating a fruit salad of apples and pears can add a sweet touch to your meal.
Occasions: This dish is ideal for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, and even festive occasions like Thanksgiving.

FAQ

The special thing about Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken is its unique blend of flavors. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delicious glaze that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. Additionally, the roasting process locks in moisture, resulting in a tender and juicy bird. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings and has a comforting, nostalgic quality that appeals to many.

Absolutely! If you prefer using chicken parts, such as thighs or breasts, you can still achieve the same delicious flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller pieces will cook faster than a whole chicken. Ensure to coat each piece with the honey mustard glaze to get that delightful flavor throughout.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven at 350℉ until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to dry it out. Leftover chicken can also be shredded and used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps, making it a versatile addition to your meals.

There are numerous side dishes that complement Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices. The key is to choose sides that balance the dish and enhance the overall dining experience.

Conclusion

In summary, Honey Mustard Roasted Chicken is a heartwarming dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. It’s not only easy to prepare but also brings people together around the dinner table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; your family will thank you for it!