Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Category: Chicken Recipes

This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy! With just honey, Dijon mustard, and a few spices, you’ll have a tasty dish that’s super simple to make.

I love how the chicken comes out juicy and full of flavor! Serve it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later! 🍗✨

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you have chicken thighs on hand, they work well too and add extra tenderness. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Dijon Mustard: This mustard gives a sharp and tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, try using yellow mustard or a whole grain mustard. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor profile a bit!

Honey: Honey adds sweetness to balance the mustard. If you’re aiming to reduce sugar, use maple syrup or agave syrup instead. These substitutes will still provide that lovely sweetness, but with a twist.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic packs a punch, but if you’re in a hurry, garlic powder can be a quick alternative. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.

How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?

To keep your chicken moist and flavorful, it’s important to not overcook it. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

  • Before baking, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps it cook evenly.
  • Basting the chicken with the honey Dijon mixture halfway through cooking adds moisture and boosts flavor.
  • If broiling for a nice glaze, watch it closely so it doesn’t burn. Just a few minutes is usually all you need!

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. With a total of around 35 minutes, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking.

2. Whisk Together the Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is mixed well. This mixture is going to be the star of the dish—it’s sweet, tangy, and full of flavor!

3. Prepare the Chicken:

Next, place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, giving them a bit of space. It’s important for the heat to circulate, so don’t overcrowd the dish!

4. Coat the Chicken:

Now, it’s time to spoon the honey Dijon mixture over each chicken breast. Make sure to cover them thoroughly so that every bite is full of flavor. Yum!

5. Bake the Chicken:

Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

6. Broil for a Glaze (Optional):

If you want a nice glazed finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn, but this step gives a beautiful color and caramelization!

7. Rest and Serve:

Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even juicier. Before serving, feel free to garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color.

8. Enjoy Your Meal:

Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your flavorful and easy baked honey Dijon chicken!

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for quick cooking, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just be aware that cooking times may vary; thighs generally need an extra 5-10 minutes to reach the safe internal temperature.

What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?

If Dijon mustard isn’t on hand, try using yellow mustard for a milder flavor, or whole grain mustard for a bit of texture. You can even make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of mustard and a bit of vinegar to get a similar tangy taste!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes! This recipe is easily doubled. Just ensure you have a larger baking dish, and keep an eye on the cooking time—larger quantities might require a few extra minutes in the oven.

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