This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a winner for dinner! Juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey Dijon sauce makes a tasty meal for the whole family.
I love how simple it is to prepare! Just mix the sauce, slather it on the chicken, and let the oven do the work. Easy peasy, and leftovers taste even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish for their lean and tender qualities. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs work great too, offering a richer flavor and juiciness.
Dijon Mustard: This mustard adds a lovely tanginess that pairs well with honey. If you don’t have Dijon, you can use yellow mustard, though the flavor will be milder. For a twist, try whole grain mustard for added texture.
Honey: Honey provides sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize. If you’re looking for a healthier option, maple syrup or agave nectar can be a good substitute, though they will alter the taste slightly.
Olive Oil: Using olive oil adds richness. If you’re out of it, any neutral oil such as canola or sunflower oil will work just fine. For a flavor boost, try avocado oil.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch. In a pinch, use garlic powder (about 1/2 teaspoon) if fresh garlic isn’t available.
How Do You Get Chicken all the Way Cooked Without Drying It Out?
The key to juicy baked chicken is not overcooking it. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
- If you’re baking larger pieces, consider covering them with foil for the first 20 minutes to keep moisture in, then uncovering them for a caramelized finish.
- Let the chicken rest for several minutes after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to bake, making it a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for ensuring your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely, roasted flavor. You can also lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Honey Dijon Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is combined well and looks smooth.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Now, pour that delicious honey Dijon mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. This sauce is what makes the chicken so tasty!
4. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You know your chicken is done when it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. If you have a meat thermometer, check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you like your sauce a little caramelized, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn—you just want it nicely browned!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps to keep the chicken juicy. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you like, then serve with your favorite sides like rice, vegetables, or salad.
Enjoy this easy and flavorful baked honey Dijon chicken! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
FAQ for Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra moisture and flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Substitute Honey with Another Sweetener?
Yes! If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well. Just note that each option will slightly alter the flavor, but they will still provide that necessary sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in the oven covered with foil at a low temperature to prevent drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the honey Dijon sauce and coat the chicken up to a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can also help enhance the flavors!
