This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is sweet, tangy, and oh-so-simple! With just a few ingredients like honey and Dijon mustard, you can have a tasty dinner on the table in no time.
I love how the sweet and tangy flavors make each bite delightful! Plus, it bakes up perfectly every time, leaving me with more time to binge my favorite shows. Who wouldn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you could use thighs for a juicier texture, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tangy flavor! If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard works, but it will be milder. Spicy brown mustard can give a similar kick if you want to jazz it up.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup is a great substitute, just keep the flavor switch in mind!
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but feel free to swap it for melted butter or avocado oil depending on your taste preference.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Turns Out Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky; follow these tips for juicy and tender results:
- Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. This helps them cook evenly. If needed, pound them gently with a meat mallet.
- Don’t skip the resting step after baking! Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Following these tips will help you achieve juicy chicken that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy your meal prep!
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 Italian seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making it a quick dinner option that will delight your taste buds!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
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. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This sweet and tangy sauce is the star of the dish!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. This helps them cook properly. Ensure your chicken is in one layer, so it doesn’t steam!
4. Coat with Sauce:
Pour the honey Dijon sauce over the chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is coated evenly for maximum flavor. You can use a brush or spoon to spread it around if you like.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Bake the chicken uncovered in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for it to be cooked through, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to help with this.
6. Optional Broiling:
If you want a nice caramelized finish, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—nobody likes burnt chicken!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making for a tender bite.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve it warm with your favorite side dishes, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Is There a Low-Carb Option for This Recipe?
Yes, you can certainly make this dish low-carb! Simply use a sugar-free honey substitute or a low-carb sweetener in place of honey in the sauce. This way, you can enjoy all the flavor without the extra carbs!
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the honey Dijon sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply pour it over the chicken before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re short on time. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist!
