Mustard-Molasses Glazed Chicken
Imagine a chicken dish that takes simple ingredients and transforms them into an irresistible, tangy, and sweet experience. This Mustard-Molasses Glazed Chicken is exactly that—an enchanting combination of molasses and Dijon mustard that turns an ordinary chicken meal into a flavorful feast. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh Coarse Ground Black Pepper: To taste
- 3 1/2 pounds of Chicken Pieces: Bone-in, skin-on works best for maximum flavor
- 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: For a sharp, mustardy zing
- 4 tablespoons Molasses: Brings a deep, rich sweetness
- Optional: Hot sauce for a bit of heat, if desired
Instructions:
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the chicken to a crisp, golden perfection.
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Prepare the Glaze: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of molasses, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, and if you like a touch of heat, a few dashes of hot sauce. The result should be a well-blended, glossy glaze that smells absolutely divine.
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Glaze the Chicken: Take your chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly with the mustard-molasses mixture. Make sure every piece is generously covered to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
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Arrange the Chicken: Place the glazed chicken skin side down in a 10×15 inch baking pan. This positioning helps the skin crisp up nicely as it cooks.
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Add Extra Glaze: Pour any remaining glaze over the top of the chicken in the pan. This will create a flavorful layer on top as the chicken roasts.
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Season: Sprinkle salt and fresh coarse ground black pepper over the chicken to enhance its taste.
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Roast the Chicken: Slide the pan into the top rack of your preheated oven and roast for about 40 minutes. The chicken is done when the juices run barely clear when you prick the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
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Broil for Extra Crispiness: Remove the pan from the oven and turn on the broiler to high. Carefully flip the chicken pieces over and baste them with the pan drippings for extra flavor. If there is a lot of fat or drippings, spoon some out before broiling to prevent flare-ups and ensure even browning.
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Broil and Baste: Place the pan under the broiler and broil, turning the chicken and basting with the pan drippings as needed. Rotate the pan to achieve an even, golden-brown color. This should take about 8 minutes, or until the chicken has a beautiful, glossy finish.
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Serve: Once done, drizzle any remaining pan drippings over the chicken pieces before serving to enhance the flavor even more.
Serving Suggestions:
This Mustard-Molasses Glazed Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh, crisp salad. The sweet and tangy glaze makes it a versatile option that complements many different sides.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 592.2
- Fat: 36.9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10.4 grams
- Cholesterol: 181.1 milligrams
- Sodium: 438.4 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 17 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 12.2 grams
- Protein: 45.5 grams
Enjoy this delicious and satisfying recipe that brings a touch of sweetness and tang to your chicken. With its rich, glossy glaze and perfectly roasted skin, this dish is sure to become a beloved addition to your family’s dinner rotation. 🍗🍽️
