Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe other night, while flipping through the pages of my well-worn cookbook, I stumbled upon a gem: Ina Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken. For those of us who crave a dish that’s simple yet impressive, this recipe shines like a beacon. Imagine juicy chicken thighs, lovingly coated in a crispy, herbed breadcrumb crust, with the tang of Dijon mustard dancing through each tender bite. It’s a meal that effortlessly transforms your dinner table into a cozy gathering place, perfect for both weeknight dining and meal prep leftovers. In just a few easy steps, you can create a delightful dinner that adapts wonderfully to different cuts of chicken. Curious about how to whip this up and impress your family? Keep reading—your new favorite dinner recipe is just around the corner! Why Is Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken a Must-Try? Crispy, golden crust: This dish elevates simple chicken to gourmet status with a delightfully crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the moist, succulent meat inside. Effortless preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, even novice cooks can wow dinner guests with this easy recipe. Flavor-packed marinade: The buttermilk and Dijon mustard work together to infuse every bite with tangy, rich flavor, promising a satisfying experience that’s anything but ordinary. Versatile cuts: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into parts—each variation is equally delicious! Perfect for leftovers: Enjoy the savory goodness the next day; it’s just as delightful cold or warmed up, making meal prep a breeze. You’ll want to pair this dish with your favorite roasted vegetables or a light salad, creating a complete meal that your family will love! Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Ingredients • For those ready to cook up a storm! For the Chicken • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs/drumsticks – The juicy and flavorful main protein that brings this dish to life. For the Marinade • Buttermilk – A tenderizing agent; can be swapped with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar if needed. • Dijon mustard – Adds a punch of flavor while helping the bread crumbs adhere beautifully. For the Coating • Fresh bread crumbs – Essential for that crispy crust; panko is a good substitute, but fresh crumbs offer optimal moisture absorption. • Garlic – Use fresh minced garlic for a rich, aromatic flavor boost. • Lemon zest – Brightens up the dish; lime zest works as an excellent alternative if you’re out. • Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning elements; adjust to your liking for enhanced taste. • Fresh thyme – Offers a delightful herbal note; dried thyme can be used, but use less as it’s more concentrated. • Olive oil – Key for achieving that coveted golden-brown crust; melted butter can also be used for extra richness. As you gather these ingredients, just imagine how Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken will transform your dinner into a cozy, delicious affair! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). A hot oven is key to achieving that crispy, golden crust on Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken. Make sure your oven racks are adjusted to the center position to allow for even cooking, providing a perfect envelope of heat around your chicken. Step 2: Prepare the Bread Crumbs In a food processor, pulse together fresh bread, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, thyme, and pepper until finely crumbed. This mixture will create a flavorful, crispy coating for your chicken. Once ready, set it aside in a bowl, admiring the fragrant combination that will soon adorn your chicken thighs. Step 3: Mix the Marinade In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and Dijon mustard until smooth and well incorporated. This marinade will not only tenderize the chicken but also infuse it with rich flavor. Pour it over your bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, ensuring each piece is completely submerged, and let it soak for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those tangy notes. Step 4: Coat the Chicken After marinating, remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, thoroughly coat the chicken with the prepared seasoned bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere to the surface. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring space between each piece for even roasting. Step 5: Roast the Chicken Transfer your baking sheet to the preheated oven and roast the chicken for approximately 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (75ºC) and the bread crumbs have turned a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on the chicken; if the crumbs start browning too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil. Step 6: Rest Before Serving Once roasted, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is essential for retaining the moisture inside the chicken, leading to a tender and juicy bite when you’re ready to serve. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the satisfying aroma of Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken filling your home! How to Store and Freeze Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing to preserve freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It’ll maintain quality for up to 3 months. Reheating: Reheat in a 350ºF (175ºC) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the crust crispy while ensuring the chicken remains juicy and tender. Serving Suggestions: Enjoy your leftovers cold in salads or warmed up beside roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal featuring Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken! What to Serve with Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Imagine a beautifully arranged dinner table, where the enticing aroma of crispy chicken mingles with vibrant side dishes that elevate your meal to new heights. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Caramelized roots and greens add a sweet balance and bring a pop of color to your plate. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes provide a comforting, soft contrast to the crispy chicken. Citrus Arugula Salad: The peppery arugula, combined with citrus segments, offers a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and fragrant, quinoa with herbs and nuts brings a delightful texture and heartiness to complement the chicken. Honey Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the overall meal experience, and their beautiful color brightens your plate. Chilled Cucumber Soup: This cool and creamy soup offers a lovely contrast, especially on warm evenings, refreshing your palate between bites. White Wine Spritzer: Light and bubbly, a refreshing spritzer pairs beautifully with the savory chicken while keeping dinner feeling festive. Lemon Tart: End the meal with a tangy dessert that echoes the lemon zest in the chicken, providing a perfect sweet-tart finish. Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside; these wedges lend a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the mustard’s tang. Expert Tips for Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, soak the chicken in the buttermilk and mustard mixture overnight. This makes a noticeable difference in taste and tenderness. Uniform Cuts: To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform pieces if using different cuts. This allows everything to finish roasting at the same time. Monitor Browning: Keep an eye on the chicken as it roasts; if the bread crumbs start browning too quickly, gently cover with foil to prevent burning. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and garlic enhance the dish tremendously. Opt for these over dried or pre-minced products for the best flavor experience. Cooling Time: Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after roasting. This step helps retain moisture and ensures every bite is succulent and enjoyable as you savor Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken! Make Ahead Options These Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dinner with minimal effort during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk and Dijon mixture up to 24 hours in advance, making it even more tender and flavorful. Additionally, the seasoned bread crumbs can be prepared 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated chicken with the crumbs and roast as directed. This way, you’ll still achieve that delightful crunch and succulence that makes this dish a family favorite, effortlessly saving you time and making mealtime a breeze! Variations & Substitutions for Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Feel free to let your creativity flourish as you adapt this dish in ways that truly suit your taste buds! Chicken Cut: Swap chicken thighs for drumsticks or even boneless breasts for a leaner twist. A whole chicken cut into parts can also offer an impressive family feast with tender results. Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk with coconut milk mixed with a splash of vinegar to achieve that creamy texture without dairy. This swap adds a subtle hint of sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile while keeping it dairy-free. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular bread crumbs for the coating. You’ll still achieve that crispy texture while ensuring the dish is accessible for gluten-sensitive family and friends. Herb Variations: Try using fresh rosemary or sage in place of thyme for a change in flavor. These herbs lend an earthy depth that works wonderfully with roasted chicken. Zesty Punch: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a delightful kick of heat. This simple addition can elevate the dish, providing warmth to every bite. Add Citrus: Consider adding orange zest for a bright, refreshing alternative to the usual lemon. This twist brings a lovely contrast to the savory chicken that feels vibrant and seasonal. Sweet Glaze: Brush the chicken with a bit of honey or maple syrup before roasting for a sweet glaze. This contrast with the mustard creates a deliciously sticky coating that will have everyone reaching for seconds! Pesto Twist: Mixing a couple of tablespoons of pesto into the buttermilk adds a burst of flavor and an Italian flair. You’ll enjoy a fragrant herbal touch that will surprise and delight your guests. Explore these delightful options to make Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken a truly signature dish for your table. And as you savor this cozy creation, consider pairing it with some roasted vegetables for a complete, scrumptious meal! Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Recipe FAQs How should I choose the chicken for Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken? Absolutely! For the best results, look for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks; these cuts retain moisture and offer superior flavor during roasting. Ensure the meat is fresh with no dark spots or unpleasant odors, and remember, the more marbling, the better the taste! How do I store leftovers from Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure the chicken cools to room temperature before sealing it to maintain its tenderness and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, they’ll be just as delectable as when they were first served! Can I freeze Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken, and if so, how? Yes, you can! To freeze, arrange the cooled chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can keep your chicken for up to 3 months without losing any flavor. When it’s time to eat, just reheat in a preheated oven at 350ºF (175ºC) until heated through—about 15-20 minutes to keep that crunchy crust! What should I do if my chicken doesn’t cook evenly? If you find that some chicken pieces are cooking faster than others, it’s likely due to uneven sizing. For a perfect roast, aim for uniform pieces—this promotes even cooking. Additionally, using an instant-read thermometer can help ensure every piece is properly cooked to 165ºF (75ºC) without guesswork! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken? Good question! If you have dietary concerns, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with vinegar as a buttermilk substitute, which can be suitable for most diets. Those with gluten sensitivities can use gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for the Dijon mustard, to avoid potential allergens. For pet owners, avoid feeding cooked chicken skin, as it can be too rich for them. Can I use different herbs in Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken? Very much so! Although fresh thyme adds an aromatic quality, feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley, depending on what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the amount if using dried herbs, as they are more concentrated. Explore and make this dish uniquely yours! Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken Recipe FAQs Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken: Crispy, Juicy Delight! Garten’s Mustard-Roasted Chicken is a simple yet impressive dish featuring juicy chicken thighs coated in a crispy, herbed breadcrumb crust. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs/drumsticks Juicy and flavorful main proteinFor the Marinade1 cup Buttermilk Can be swapped with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar3 tablespoons Dijon mustard Adds flavor and helps bread crumbs adhereFor the Coating1 cup Fresh bread crumbs Panko is a good substitute2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for flavor boost1 tablespoon Lemon zest Can substitute with lime zest1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust according to taste1 teaspoon Fresh thyme Can use dried thyme, less concentrated2 tablespoons Olive oil For achieving golden-brown crust Equipment ovenFood processormixing bowlbaking sheetparchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC).In a food processor, pulse together fresh bread, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, thyme, and pepper until finely crumbed. Set aside.In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and Dijon mustard until smooth. Pour over chicken and let soak for at least 15 minutes.Remove chicken from marinade and coat with bread crumbs. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.Roast in the oven for approximately 40 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165ºF (75ºC) and bread crumbs are golden brown.Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesFor deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the buttermilk and mustard mixture. Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
