37 Shares

There’s a special kind of comfort that comes from a perfectly roasted chicken, and Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken takes that experience to a whole new level. I discovered this gem one evening while searching for a simple yet scrumptious dish that could transform my weeknight dinners. Imagine the enticing scent of garlic and herbs filling your kitchen as the chicken roasts, creating an atmosphere of warmth and delight.

What sets this recipe apart? The golden, crispy crust that hugs the juicy chicken is not just for show; it’s infused with rich flavors from Dijon mustard, fresh garlic, and aromatic thyme. Whether you’re looking for an impressively elegant meal for guests or a stress-free option for busy nights, this dish delivers on every front. Best of all, with its gluten-free adaptability and easy marination options, it’s a standout choice for anyone seeking homemade goodness without the hassle of fast-food monotony. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why is Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken a must-try?

Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing quite like the crisp, golden crust enveloping juicy meat that makes this meal so inviting.
Flavor Powerhouse: Dijon mustard and garlic combine effortlessly to create a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary chicken into something irresistibly special.
Simple Process: With easy-to-follow steps, you can prepare this dish without the stress of complicated techniques.
Versatile & Adaptable: Marinate the chicken overnight or switch up herbs; this recipe easily caters to your taste preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for weeknight meals or festive occasions, it’s sure to impress your guests. Get inspired and serve it alongside your favorite sides for a complete dining experience!

Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade

Dijon Mustard – The essential flavor base that keeps bread crumbs in place; consider using whole grain for extra texture.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and enhances moisture; if unavailable, mix yogurt with water for a substitute.

For the Chicken

Chicken Legs (thighs and drumsticks) – These cuts provide rich flavor; feel free to mix in other bone-in chicken pieces if desired.

For the Coating

Fresh Bread Crumbs – Gives the dish a delightful crunch; alternatives include Panko or crushed crackers for varied textures.
Garlic – Fresh garlic adds deep aroma; using fresh cloves yields the best taste over garlic powder.
Lemon Zest – Brightens up the dish, balancing flavors beautifully; lime zest can add a unique twist if you prefer.
Thyme – A classic herb that complements chicken wonderfully; substitute with rosemary or oregano if desired.

Now you’re ready to gather the ingredients for this comforting and flavorful Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken!

How to Make Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken

Prepare the Seasoned Bread Crumbs: Start by pulsing the garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and thyme in a food processor. Once mixed, combine it with fresh bread crumbs for a delightful crunch.
Soak the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard and buttermilk. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are well-coated, and let them soak for at least 1 hour—or overnight for even better flavor!
Coat the Chicken: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Transfer the marinated chicken to the pan, dredging each piece in the seasoned bread crumbs until they are beautifully coated.
Roast the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the chicken is cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Once roasted, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to seal in, giving you perfectly moist chicken when you’re ready to slice and serve.

Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezer: If you have extra portions, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Make-Ahead: For busy nights, marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. This enhances flavor and makes weeknight cooking a breeze!

Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Variations

Customize this dish to suit your family’s taste and dietary needs with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Creamy Addition: Mix in sour cream with Dijon mustard for a richer marinade that adds a velvety texture and enhances the flavor profile.
Zesty Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the bread crumb mixture for a spicy twist that enlivens the taste.
Cheesy Crust: Incorporate grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the bread crumbs to create a savory, cheesy crust that enhances the overall flavor.
Herb Swap: Substitute fresh thyme with herbs like tarragon or basil for a unique flavor that gives this dish a whole new personality.
Citrus Variation: Switch lemon zest for orange zest to create a sweet and tangy element that brightens the dish with a refreshing twist.
Vegetable Surprise: Scatter chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or onions on the baking sheet alongside the chicken for an added burst of flavor and nutrition.
Whole Chicken Option: Roast a whole chicken instead of individual pieces for a beautiful presentation, allowing the skin to crisp evenly and lock in juices.

What to Serve with Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken?

Looking to create a delightful dining experience that complements the savory essence of roasted chicken?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, creating a comforting duo.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini infused with herbs add a colorful, fresh crunch to your plate.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette balances the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken.
Herbed Quinoa: Nutty quinoa garnished with parsley and lemon zest provides a nutritious, gluten-free side that enhances the meal’s flavors without overwhelming them.
Savory Herb Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up leftover juices and mustard sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the meal with its crisp, fruity notes.
Apple Crisp: Finish off with a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that mirrors the fragrant notes of the chicken.

Expert Tips for Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken

Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk and Dijon mustard overnight can significantly enhance its tenderness and flavor.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat meat.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the chicken pieces enough space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bread crumbs.
Customize the Coating: Feel free to experiment with spices or cheese in the bread crumb mixture to personalize your Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken.
Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even juicier meat when sliced.

Make Ahead Options

Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and Dijon mustard up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. Additionally, you can prepare the seasoned bread crumbs and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious chicken, simply coat the marinated pieces in the bread crumb mixture and roast as directed. This prep ensures you have a comforting meal with minimal effort, perfect for a hectic weeknight dinner!

Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of Dijon mustard should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any Dijon mustard you prefer, but I recommend a whole grain Dijon for added texture and a slightly different flavor profile. It adds a lovely crunch to the crust while still providing that tangy kick we crave in this dish.

How can I store leftovers of Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing it up. If you plan on enjoying it later, try to separate the pieces to maintain maximum crispness!

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you have extras. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn, and it will remain good for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

What should I do if the breading isn’t crispy?
If your breading ends up soggy, it may be due to overcrowding in the pan or insufficient baking time. Ensure to space the chicken pieces well apart on the baking sheet, as this allows for proper air circulation, promoting a crispy texture. Also, feel free to crank up the oven temperature a bit during the last few minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by substituting regular bread crumbs with gluten-free versions. As for allergies, always check the ingredients of any commercial mustard or bread crumbs you use, as they may contain allergens. If you’re serving this to pets, avoid sharing any seasoned or spiced chicken, and stick to plain, cooked chicken instead for their safety.