This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty dinner option! The chicken is coated in a sweet and tangy honey Dijon sauce that makes every bite delicious. It’s super simple to prepare!
Who doesn’t love a dinner that’s both quick and scrumptious? I always serve it with rice or veggies, and I can’t resist sneaking bites right from the baking dish! 😄
This recipe is a hit at my house. I just mix the sauce, coat the chicken, and bake. It’s an easy way to add flavor without too much fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too—they come out juicier.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a nice kick. You could swap it for yellow mustard if you’re looking for a milder flavor, or even honey mustard for extra sweetness.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness and helps create a glaze. If you’re avoiding sugar, try maple syrup or agave syrup as alternatives.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist. Canola oil or melted butter are good substitutes if you don’t have olive oil on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor. If you only have garlic powder, about half a teaspoon will do, but fresh is always better!
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Moist?
Keeping the chicken moist is key! Here are some tips:
- Marinate: If you have time, let the chicken sit in the honey Dijon mixture for 30 minutes or more. This helps it absorb flavor and moisture.
- Don’t Overbake: Make sure you don’t cook the chicken too long; you want it to hit 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let your chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. This allows juices to redistribute for juicier bites!
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 or thyme, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll need about 40 minutes to enjoy a delicious Honey Dijon Chicken that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This flavorful sauce is what makes the chicken so delicious!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, place the chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping for even cooking.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the honey Dijon mixture over the chicken. Use your hands to turn the chicken breasts and ensure they are coated well on all sides. Get that flavor in there!
5. Bake:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check the chicken for doneness; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you want a little extra flavor and a nice caramelized finish, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
7. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for a lovely finish. Now, dish it up and enjoy your flavorful Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken!
Bon appétit!
FAQ About Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add even more juiciness to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free. Most brands are, but it’s always good to double-check the label!
Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon mixture for up to 24 hours in the fridge before baking. This enhances the flavor and makes for a quicker cooking time when you’re ready to bake!
What Are the Best Leftover Storage Tips?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or reheat in the oven to maintain texture. Just cover it with foil to keep it from drying out!
