This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty and quick meal! With juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! Just mix the sauce, coat the chicken, and bake. I love serving it with rice—it’s like the chicken and rice party on my plate! 🍗🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe due to their quick cooking time. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work wonderfully and add extra flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth. If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup can offer similar sweetness with a different flavor profile.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a tangy kick. If you want a milder taste, you can use yellow mustard, or for a creamier texture, try honey mustard sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove) can be used, but fresh has the best aroma!
Thyme: Dried thyme is easy to find, but if you have fresh thyme, it’s worth using! Just double the amount as fresh herbs are less concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
To keep the chicken juicy, it’s important to avoid overcooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) as a hot oven helps cook the chicken quickly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 165°F (74°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
Enjoy your delicious chicken dinner! Fluffy rice or some roasted veggies are great ways to soak up the tasty sauce. Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal can be prepared in about 10 minutes and will take around 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 40 minutes to get dinner on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
To kick things off, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is nice and hot when the chicken goes in.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, and thyme until everything is well mixed. This sweet and tangy sauce is what makes this chicken so special!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them with salt and black pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy; seasoning helps bring out the flavors!
4. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, making sure they fit in a single layer for even cooking.
5. Coat with Sauce:
Pour the yummy honey Dijon sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets a good coat. This will help keep the chicken juicy while it bakes!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want to make sure the chicken is cooked through—look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and some nice bubbles in the sauce!
7. Optional Broiling:
If you like a golden top, turn on your broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you’d like, garnish with some chopped parsley for a burst of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious baked honey Dijon chicken warm, paired with your favorite sides like rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but keep in mind that they will require a longer cooking time—about 35-45 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption!
Is There a Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard for a milder flavor or honey mustard for a sweeter touch. Just adjust the honey quantity if using honey mustard to balance the sweetness!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the honey Dijon sauce and coat the chicken breasts a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The sauce will keep the chicken moist!
