Description
This Mustard Chicken Marinade is a tangy, savory, and slightly sweet blend that tenderizes chicken while infusing it with bold flavors. Made with Dijon mustard, garlic, herbs, honey, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, it’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a delicious main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Chicken
- 1 ½ to 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme or rosemary, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best flavor, marinate for 2 to 4 hours, or up to 12 hours for maximum tenderness.
- Cook the Chicken: When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess. Choose your cooking method: grill over medium heat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or pan-sear in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
- Rest and Serve: Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and keeps the meat tender. Serve warm as a main dish or use in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
Notes
- This marinade works equally well with other proteins like pork or tofu for a flavorful twist.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of whole grain mustard to the marinade.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches to add a zesty flavor boost.
