This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a treat! With a sweet and tangy sauce made from honey and Dijon mustard, it’s packed with flavor and super simple to make.
You won’t believe how quickly this comes together. Just mix the sauce, coat the chicken, and pop it in the oven. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitution, chicken thighs can also work well for a juicier bite. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a nice tanginess to the sauce. If you want a milder flavor, opt for yellow mustard, or for something spicier, try whole grain mustard. Each will bring a different twist to the dish!
Honey: This is what gives the dish its sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-glycemic alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well. Experiment with what you have on hand!
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor and healthy fats. If you’re out of it, any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil will do the trick.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist, proper cooking technique is key. The magic happens in the oven and with your sauce. Here’s what to do:
- Preheat the oven thoroughly before placing the chicken in. This helps create a nice seal around the meat.
- Spread the honey Dijon sauce all over the chicken to lock in moisture. Basting halfway through adds extra flavor and helps prevent drying out.
- Lastly, letting the chicken rest after baking is crucial. It allows juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken is tender and juicy when you slice it.
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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, for a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Use a brush or spoon to generously coat each chicken breast with the honey Dijon sauce, making sure to cover all sides.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check if it’s done, you can use a meat thermometer—look for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
5. Baste for Extra Flavor:
If you’d like, halfway through the baking time (around 15 minutes), you can open the oven and baste the chicken with the sauce from the pan. This adds even more flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
6. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked through, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. If you want, garnish it with some fresh chopped parsley before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken if you’d like, and serve it warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook. Aim for about 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard as a substitute. It will have a milder flavor, so your dish may taste slightly different, but it should still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge, and when you’re ready, bake it as instructed for a quick and easy dinner.
