Ina Garten Crispy Mustard Chicken

If you love crispy chicken with bold flavor, Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken is a must-try. This dish pairs tender, oven-baked chicken with a tangy mustard marinade and a golden, herbed breadcrumb crust. It’s everything you’d expect from Ina—simple ingredients, elevated flavor, and foolproof execution.

What Is Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken?

This dish features boneless chicken breasts or thighs, coated in a Dijon mustard and white wine marinade, then dredged in a Parmesan-panko crust and baked until golden and crisp. Ina’s version is healthier than fried chicken but just as satisfying.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken with Goat Cheese and Basil
• Ina Garten’s Crispy Chicken with Lemon Orzo
• Ina Garten’s Engagement Roast Chicken
•  Ina Garten Fried Chicken Sandwiches

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken

• Crispy without deep frying – Baked for a healthier option
• Bold mustard flavor – Balanced with cheese and herbs
• Quick and simple – Perfect for weeknights
• Elegant presentation – Ideal for casual dinners or guests
• Make-ahead friendly – Marinate earlier in the day
• Pairs well with many sides – From salads to potatoes
• Barefoot Contessa–approved – Classic Ina comfort

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup Dijon mustard
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Olive oil spray or additional butter for the baking dish

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and white wine. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them well in the mustard mixture. Let them sit while you prepare the crust.

Step 3: Make the Crust

In another shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, thyme, and melted butter. Mix until evenly coated and crumbly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Lift each chicken piece from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Coat both sides thoroughly and place in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and the crust is crisp and golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

What to Serve With Crispy Mustard Chicken

• Roasted baby potatoes or mashed potatoes – Hearty pairing
• Steamed green beans or asparagus – Bright and simple
• Lemon-dressed arugula salad – Cuts the richness
• Buttered egg noodles or orzo – Mild and comforting
• Creamy polenta or risotto – For an elegant side
• Crusty sourdough or dinner rolls – For sopping up juices
• Glass of dry white wine – Like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and adds flavor
• Let the chicken rest after baking – Keeps juices inside
• Don’t skip the wine in the marinade – It balances the mustard
• Use a meat thermometer – To avoid overcooking
• Toast breadcrumbs briefly first (optional) – Extra crispness
• Use boneless thighs for more moisture – Especially if reheating
• Spray tops with olive oil – Helps browning in the oven

Variations of the Recipe

• Add garlic or shallot to the marinade – For extra aroma
• Swap mustard for whole grain or honey mustard – Flavor twist
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary – For garden-fresh flavor
• Add lemon zest to the crust – For a citrusy note
• Top with melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese – For a richer version
• Turn into chicken fingers or nuggets – Great for kids
• Serve over greens – For a crispy chicken salad

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container – Up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer – To maintain crisp texture
• Avoid microwaving if possible – It softens the coating
• Freeze breaded raw chicken – For baking later
• Label and date freezer containers – Use within 2 months
• Reheat from frozen at 375°F – For about 30–35 minutes
• Wrap in foil if storing with sides – Keeps flavors separate

How Do I Reuse Leftover Crispy Mustard Chicken?

• Slice over Caesar or arugula salad – For a bold, crunchy topping
• Make a sandwich or wrap – With aioli or honey mustard
• Serve in grain bowls – With roasted veggies and vinaigrette
• Turn into chicken Parmesan – Add marinara and mozzarella
• Chop into pasta – Tossed with olive oil and herbs
• Use as filling for paninis – With cheese and greens
• Serve cold with pickles and slaw – Great for picnics

Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Sugar: 1g

FAQs

What makes Ina Garten’s crispy mustard chicken so flavorful?

The Dijon mustard and white wine marinade deeply flavors the chicken while tenderizing it, and the Parmesan-panko crust adds rich, savory crunch.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully. They stay juicy and may require slightly less cooking time, so check for doneness around 30–35 minutes.

How do I keep the crust from falling off?

Let the excess marinade drip off before coating in breadcrumbs, and press the coating firmly onto each side. Let it rest for a few minutes before baking.

Can I prepare crispy mustard chicken ahead of time?

You can marinate and bread the chicken a few hours in advance. Refrigerate it uncovered and bake just before serving for the best texture.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Crispy Mustard Chicken delivers bold flavor and perfect crunch—all from the oven. With a zesty mustard marinade and a golden Parmesan crust, this dish is both comforting and refined. It’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly dinner rotation.

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