If you’ve ever dipped a crispy chicken tender into Bojangles’ signature honey mustard sauce, you know it’s something special. That perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and subtle spices creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
The good news? You don’t need to make a trip to Bojangles to enjoy this beloved condiment. This copycat Bojangles honey mustard recipe brings that restaurant-quality sauce right into your kitchen with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
In just minutes, you’ll whip up a batch that rivals the original, perfect for dunking, drizzling, and dressing up your favorite foods.
What Does It Taste Like?
This Bojangles honey mustard sauce delivers a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate. The initial taste is pleasantly sweet from the golden honey, quickly followed by a tangy punch from both the whole-grain Dijon and classic yellow mustard.
The apple cider vinegar and lemon juice add brightness and acidity that cuts through richness, while Worcestershire sauce provides subtle umami depth.
The creamy mayonnaise base smooths everything together, and hints of smoked paprika and garlic linger in the background, adding warmth and complexity without overpowering the star flavors. It’s boldly flavorful yet balanced-never too sweet or too sharp.
Bojangles Honey Mustard Recipe Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp golden honey
- 1 Tbsp whole-grain Dijon mustard
- 1 Tbsp classic yellow mustard
- 1 tsp tangy apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/8 tsp granulated garlic
- 1/8 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper (approximately 5 turns of a pepper grinder)
Kitchen Utensils
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or airtight container
- Pepper grinder
Preparation and Cooking Time
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Copycat Bojangles Honey Mustard Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First, gather all of your ingredients on the counter. Make sure to measure them accurately for the best results.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the creamy mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Use a whisk to blend these together until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Mustards and Spices
Next, add the whole-grain and yellow mustards to the mixture. Follow with the granulated garlic, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk again until everything is thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Now comes a critical step-give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too sweet, add a dash more vinegar. If you crave more tang, a squirt of lemon can do wonders.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate your honey mustard sauce for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Step 6: Enjoy
Once chilled, your Bojangles Honey Mustard is ready to serve!
Use it as a dip, drizzle on salads or sandwiches, and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Customization, Serve With, and Pairing Ideas
1. Spicy Kick Variation
Transform your honey mustard into a spicy sensation by adding 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of hot sauce. This pairs exceptionally well with fried chicken, chicken wings, or jalapeño poppers, giving your taste buds an extra thrill.
2. Herb-Infused Version
Elevate the sauce with fresh or dried herbs like dill, parsley, or chives. Add a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs for a garden-fresh twist that’s perfect for drizzling over grilled salmon, roasted vegetables, or potato wedges.
3. Classic Chicken Tender Pairing
Serve this copycat Bojangles honey mustard with crispy fried chicken tenders, nuggets, or popcorn chicken. The creamy, tangy sauce cuts through the richness of fried foods beautifully, making it the ultimate dipping companion.
4. Sandwich and Wrap Spread
Use this honey mustard as a condiment for sandwiches, wraps, and burgers. It’s particularly delicious on turkey and bacon sandwiches, grilled chicken wraps, or as a replacement for regular mayo on your favorite deli sandwich.
5. Salad Dressing Transformation
Thin out the sauce with a tablespoon or two of water or extra lemon juice to create a pourable salad dressing. Drizzle over mixed greens, chicken Caesar salads, or grain bowls for a sweet and tangy finish.
6. Pretzel and Veggie Dip
Serve alongside soft pretzels, pretzel bites, or a fresh vegetable crudité platter. Carrots, celery, bell peppers, and broccoli florets all pair wonderfully with this versatile dipping sauce.
7. Glaze for Grilled Meats
Brush this honey mustard over grilled chicken breasts, pork chops, or salmon during the last few minutes of cooking. The honey caramelizes slightly, creating a glossy, flavorful glaze that’s restaurant-worthy.
Expert Tips
1. Use Quality Mayonnaise
The mayonnaise forms the base of this sauce, so quality matters. Choose a full-fat, creamy mayonnaise rather than light or low-fat versions for the richest, most authentic flavor and texture. Brands like Duke’s or Hellmann’s work exceptionally well.
2. Don’t Skip the Chilling Time
While it’s tempting to use the sauce immediately, refrigerating for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This resting period allows the flavors to marry and intensify, resulting in a more cohesive, restaurant-quality taste that truly mimics the original Bojangles sauce.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference
Everyone’s sweet tooth varies. Start with the recommended 3 tablespoons of honey, but feel free to adjust. Add more honey for a sweeter sauce or reduce it slightly if you prefer a tangier profile. Taste as you go for perfect customization.
4. Fresh Black Pepper Makes a Difference
Freshly cracked black pepper provides a more vibrant, aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground pepper. Those 5 turns of the pepper grinder add subtle heat and complexity that elevate the entire sauce beyond ordinary honey mustard.
5. Whisk Thoroughly for Smoothness
Ensure you whisk vigorously when combining ingredients, especially when incorporating the honey. You want a completely smooth, lump-free sauce with all ingredients fully emulsified. Take an extra minute to whisk until perfectly uniform.
6. Make It Ahead for Best Results
This honey mustard actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had even more time to develop. Make it a day ahead of your event or meal for optimal flavor. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
7. Store in the Right Container
Transfer your finished sauce to an airtight container or squeeze bottle for easy storage and dispensing. A squeeze bottle makes portion control simple and adds a professional touch when serving at gatherings or parties.
Storage and Reheating Guidance
Store your Bojangles honey mustard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Always use a clean utensil when scooping to prevent contamination. No reheating is necessary-simply remove from the fridge 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off for optimal flavor.
Bojangles Honey Mustard Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- First, gather all of your ingredients on the counter. Make sure to measure them accurately for the best results.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the creamy mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Use a whisk to blend these together until smooth.
- Next, add the whole-grain and yellow mustards to the mixture. Follow with the granulated garlic, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk again until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Now comes a critical step-give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning as needed. If it’s too sweet, add a dash more vinegar. If you crave more tang, a squirt of lemon can do wonders.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate your honey mustard sauce for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Once chilled, your Bojangles Honey Mustard is ready to serve! Use it as a dip, drizzle on salads or sandwiches, and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Video
Notes
Common Queries Q&A Section
We’re here to help! Below, you’ll find answers to common questions people usually have about this recipe.
Q: Can I make this honey mustard without mayonnaise?
A: While mayonnaise is essential to the creamy texture and authentic Bojangles flavor, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version. Keep in mind this will alter the taste and create a tangier, less rich sauce. For a vegan option, use vegan mayonnaise, which works surprisingly well and maintains the proper consistency.
Q: Why does my honey mustard taste too tangy?
A: If your sauce is overly tangy, you’ve likely added too much vinegar, lemon juice, or mustard. Balance it by adding more honey (start with 1 tablespoon at a time) or a bit more mayonnaise to mellow the acidity. Remember, the flavors intensify during refrigeration, so taste and adjust before chilling.
Q: Can I use only Dijon mustard instead of both types?
A: Using both whole-grain Dijon and yellow mustard is key to replicating the Bojangles flavor profile. The yellow mustard provides that classic, familiar tang, while the Dijon adds depth and those appealing mustard seed pops. Using only Dijon will create a more sophisticated but less authentic sauce.
Q: How can I make this sauce thicker or thinner?
A: To thicken the sauce, add more mayonnaise (1 tablespoon at a time) or reduce the liquid ingredients slightly. To thin it for use as a dressing, whisk in water, extra lemon juice, or a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to adjust seasonings after thinning.
Q: Is this sauce gluten-free?
A: Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you’ll need to check your Worcestershire sauce label carefully, as some brands contain malt vinegar (which contains gluten). Look for certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce, or substitute with coconut aminos or tamari for a similar umami depth.
Q: Can I freeze honey mustard sauce?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended for mayonnaise-based sauces as the emulsion can break when thawed, resulting in a separated, watery texture. The sauce keeps well refrigerated for two weeks, which should be plenty of time to use it up. Make smaller batches if needed.
Q: What’s the best honey to use for this recipe?
A: Standard golden honey works perfectly and provides the authentic Bojangles flavor. Avoid strongly flavored honeys like buckwheat or manuka, as they’ll overpower the other ingredients. Clover honey or wildflower honey are excellent choices that provide sweetness without dominating the sauce.
Q: Can I add fresh garlic instead of granulated garlic?
A: Fresh minced garlic will create a much stronger, more pungent flavor that deviates from the original Bojangles recipe. Granulated garlic provides a mellow, evenly distributed garlic flavor without overwhelming the sauce. If you must use fresh, start with just 1/4 clove finely minced and adjust to taste.
Q: Why does my sauce look separated?
A: Separation typically occurs when ingredients are at different temperatures or when not whisked thoroughly enough. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, and whisk vigorously to create a proper emulsion. If separation occurs, whisk vigorously again or use an immersion blender for 10-15 seconds.
This copycat Bojangles honey mustard recipe proves that restaurant-quality sauces are achievable right in your own kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples and five minutes of effort, you’ll create a versatile condiment that rivals the original.
Whether you’re dunking chicken tenders, dressing up sandwiches, or serving it at your next gathering, this honey mustard delivers that perfect sweet-tangy balance everyone craves. Make a batch today and discover why this sauce has such a devoted following!
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Thanks for this recipe
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The perfect balance of sweet honey and bold mustard kick.