If you’re craving crispy, flavorful comfort food that’s sure to delight everyone at your table, this Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. Bursting with a tangy mustard marinade that tenderizes the chicken and a perfectly seasoned, golden crust, this dish combines simplicity with bold taste. Whether you’re frying up drumsticks, thighs, or a variety of chicken pieces, each bite offers a beautiful balance of zest, spice, and crunch. It’s a classic with a mustard twist that transforms fried chicken into something memorably delicious and irresistibly snackable.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the cornerstone of making any dish shine, and with this Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe, the list is straightforward but powerful. Each component plays its part, from the tangy mustard marinade enhancing moisture and flavor to the aromatic spices that coat the crunchy exterior.
- 6 pounds chicken pieces with bones (drumsticks, thighs, etc.): Choose a mix for the most satisfying variety of textures and flavors.
- 1 cup yellow prepared mustard: Adds that distinctive tang which tenderizes and flavors the meat deliciously.
- 1 tablespoon season salt: Brings balanced savory notes throughout the marinade and coating.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Offers a fragrant, earthy depth that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild warmth and a lovely reddish hue to the chicken crust.
- 1 tablespoon black pepper: Provides a hint of heat and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes: Delivers an herby brightness that lightens the boldness of the mustard.
- 3 cups flour: The base for the crispy coating that locks in moisture and crunch.
- 2 teaspoons season salt: Enhances seasoning in the flour mixture for the perfect crust.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper: Adds a peppery kick to the breading for additional flavor.
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: Infuses the crust with savory notes matching the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Rounds out the flour mix with slightly smoky and sweet undertones.
How to Make Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by whisking together the yellow mustard, season salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and parsley flakes in a large bowl. This tangy, spiced marinade does more than flavor – it tenderizes the chicken to juicy perfection.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Add your chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them thoroughly to ensure every nook and cranny is coated in that vibrant marinade. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you can plan ahead, letting it marinate overnight elevates the flavor infusion even more.
Step 3: Prepare the Flour Mixture
In a shallow dish, combine the flour with season salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This seasoning blend in the flour gives that irresistible crust its fantastic taste and color.
Step 4: Dredge Chicken in Flour
One at a time, dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat fully. Shake off any excess flour so your crust stays just right and never clumpy.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet or deep fryer until it reaches about 350°F (175°C), perfect for that golden crisp. Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking and keeps the crust crisp.
Step 6: Cook Until Perfect
Fry the chicken for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. The chicken is done when it’s beautifully golden and an internal thermometer reads 165°F (75°C). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Ready to Serve
Serve your piping hot, crispy, and flavorful mustard fried chicken immediately, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe

Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges can brighten the plate and add a fresh contrast to the rich fried chicken.
Side Dishes
This Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or buttery corn on the cob. Each side balances the crispy chicken’s bold flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress, serve the chicken atop a bed of sautéed greens or alongside a vibrant salad with vinaigrette. For a casual twist, try slider buns with pickles and mustard aioli for a fun take on fried chicken sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover mustard fried chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays delicious for up to 3 days, making for quick, tasty meals later.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked fried chicken wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve moisture and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep that crust delightfully crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mustard for this Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow mustard gives a classic tang, Dijon or spicy brown mustard can add a different flavor dimension if you’re feeling adventurous.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
Overnight marinating is ideal because it maximizes flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, 2 hours will still produce tasty results.
What oil is best for frying the chicken?
Use oils with high smoke points like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for frying to ensure your chicken cooks evenly without burning.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken as instructed, place on a greased baking sheet, and bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and cooked through.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also have no pink inside and clear juices.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to add a little twist to your fried chicken repertoire, this Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Crispy, flavorful, and downright addictive, it’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or any time you crave that satisfying crunch. Go ahead and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Mustard Fried Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Mustard Fried Chicken recipe features juicy, bone-in chicken pieces marinated in a tangy yellow mustard and spice blend, then coated in a seasoned flour crust and fried to golden perfection. The marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with bold flavors, while the crispy crust adds satisfying crunch. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this flavorful fried chicken pairs well with a variety of sides and dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 6 pounds chicken pieces with bones (drumsticks, thighs, etc.)
- 1 cup yellow prepared mustard
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
Flour Coating
- 3 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons seasoning salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or preferred frying oil (enough for deep frying, about 2-3 inches deep)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the yellow mustard, seasoning salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and dried parsley flakes until well mixed. This creates a flavorful marinade that tenderizes and seasons the chicken thoroughly.
- Coat the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a large shallow dish, combine the flour, seasoning salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the flour.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove each chicken piece from the marinade and dredge it in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating. Shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to submerge at least half the chicken pieces for even frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature. Fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried chicken pieces from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let rest for a few minutes before serving hot with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for more tender and flavorful results.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F internally.
- Allow oil to recover heat between batches when frying multiple pieces.
- Can substitute yellow mustard with Dijon mustard for a slightly different tangy flavor.
- For extra crispiness, double dredge the chicken by dipping back in marinade then flour again before frying.

