This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s made with juicy chicken baked in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! Just mix the honey, Dijon mustard, and a few spices, then slather it on the chicken and bake. I love serving it with rice or veggies for a simple, yummy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best here for their quick cooking time and tenderness. If you’re looking for a substitution, thighs are a juicier option and can be used without changing the cooking time much.
Dijon Mustard: This gives that lovely tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be less sharp. You might try mixing in a little vinegar for extra kick.
Honey: For sweetness, honey is ideal. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives. They will give a different flavor, but still delicious!
Olive Oil: This adds richness. You can use melted butter for a unique taste or avocado oil for a healthy option. I prefer using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key to this recipe. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Preheat the oven fully before placing the chicken inside. This helps it cook evenly.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness; the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it moist and flavorful.
Also, don’t skip the broiling step for that beautiful caramelized finish. Just keep a close watch to prevent it from burning.
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 to 30 minutes to bake, for a total time of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While your oven is warming up, lightly grease a baking dish with some cooking spray or olive oil, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This sauce is going to add wonderful flavor to your chicken!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Use a brush or a spoon to generously coat each piece with the honey Dijon mixture, making sure they are all well covered with that tasty sauce.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Now, pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to use it!
5. Optional Broil for Finish:
If you want to give your chicken a nice caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is done baking, carefully remove it from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices sealed inside, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, if you like, you can garnish the chicken with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Serve it warm with your choice of sides like rice, vegetables, or a salad. Enjoy your flavorful, tender Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken!
FAQs about Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe and can offer even more flavor. Just be sure to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard as a substitute, although the flavor will be milder. For a twist, try using spicy brown mustard or a honey mustard blend for added sweetness!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the honey Dijon mixture a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. This can allow the flavors to really soak in!
