Heat Meets Sweet: New Mexico-Style Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken You Must Try

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New Mexico is known for its bold flavors and culinary diversity. Whether you’re enjoying the fiery kick of local chilies or the sweet essence of honey, the food here has a unique way of combining flavors that excite the senses. This Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken is a perfect embodiment of that blend of heat and sweetness, making it a must-try for anyone craving a flavorful and hearty dish.

This dish draws inspiration from New Mexico’s love for spicy and tangy ingredients, using hot sauce to add heat and honey to balance the flavor with a touch of sweetness. The smoky paprika and garlic infuse each bite with depth, while the mustard gives it that satisfying, tangy finish. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken will be a hit.

Recipe: New Mexico-Style Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Tabasco)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, hot sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Arrange the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush the mustard mixture generously over each one, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Bake the chicken in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. You can check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F for full doneness.
5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

This Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken is an explosion of flavors, with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. The smoky paprika brings a depth of flavor, while the honey and mustard balance the spice for a well-rounded taste. It's perfect for anyone who loves a bit of a kick in their meals without overpowering their palate.

The Southwestern Flair

What sets this dish apart is its southwestern flair, much like the signature flavors found throughout New Mexico. This region is renowned for its love of spicy foods, and the use of hot sauce and smoked paprika nods to those local preferences. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether around the dinner table or at a weekend cookout, with its inviting aroma and bold taste.

If you're looking to spice up your weekly meal rotation, this New Mexico-style Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken is the perfect choice. It's quick, simple to prepare, and packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

The Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, drawing from the bold flavors that New Mexico’s cuisine is known for. This dish is ideal for anyone who enjoys a kick of heat, thanks to the mustard and hot sauce, paired with the sweetness of honey. The addition of garlic and smoked paprika deepens the flavor profile, giving it a delightful tangy richness.

Recipe: New Mexico-Style Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Tabasco)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, hot sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish, and brush them generously with the mustard mixture.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve!

This recipe, inspired by variations from sources like Jeanie and Lulu’s Kitchen and AllRecipes, ensures the perfect combination of caramelized honey and spice for tender, succulent chicken​(Jeanie and Lulu's Kitchen)​(Food52).

The smoky paprika adds an extra layer of depth, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings where bold flavors are appreciated. Serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal​(Allrecipes).