Slashed Chicken with Whole-Grain Mustard and Fennel

Whole-grain mustard not only seasons this chicken, the seeds also add pops of texture. The sharp acidity of the mustard is kept in check by the sweetness of brown sugar, and fennel seeds and herbs round out the flavors. The fastest way to grind the fennel seeds is with an electric spice grinder; if you can find already ground fennel seed at the grocery store, use an equal amount. Foil placed under the rack on the baking sheet will catch drips and make cleanup easier.