Holy Yum Baked Chicken

This Holy Yum Baked Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, coated in a luscious, velvety sauce that turns golden and caramelized in the oven. The dish is effortless yet elegant ideal for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to its depth of flavor lies in a carefully balanced marinade of Dijon mustard, pure maple syrup, and rice vinegar a trio that enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken. As it bakes, the sauce thickens into a rich glaze, infusing every bite with a perfect harmony of sweetness, acidity, and umami.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (smooth, not whole grain)
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup (or high-quality honey)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for depth of flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 minced garlic clove)
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish that snugly fits the chicken. This helps the sauce envelop the meat, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.

2. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, maple syrup, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The mixture should be smooth, aromatic, and slightly tangy.

3. Coat the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in the baking dish, ensuring they don’t overlap. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, flipping each piece to coat thoroughly.

4. Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The sauce will bubble and thicken naturally. If you prefer a slightly crispier glaze, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.

5. Optional Thickening

For a thicker sauce, remove the chicken and whisk ½ teaspoon cornstarch into the hot pan juices. Let it sit for a minute to thicken before drizzling over the chicken.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley and serve over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use high-quality Dijon mustard – Avoid cheap varieties, as they can be overly acidic.
• Don’t skip the resting time – This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender.
• Make it a meal – Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad for a well-balanced dish.

This Holy Yum Baked Chicken is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish guarantees a satisfying, foolproof experience with every bite. Enjoy!