Few things compare to the joy of serving a meal that’s both effortless and packed with flavor. This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a true gem, bringing together the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of Dijon mustard in a recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish promises to be a foolproof addition to your recipe collection.
Honey Dijon Chicken is a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Picture a cozy weeknight dinner where the aroma of roasting chicken fills the kitchen, or a casual dinner party where your guests rave about the meal. What makes it special is the perfect balance of flavors: the natural sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the bold tang of Dijon mustard, creating a rich, sticky glaze that makes every bite irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The marinade comes together in minutes using pantry staples, and the oven does all the hard work for you. The result? Tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful sauce that’s so good you’ll want to lick the plate.
- Beginner-Friendly: The simple steps make this recipe approachable even for novice cooks.
- Minimal Prep: With just 10 minutes of active preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The chicken stores beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers all week.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe by adding herbs, spices, or even a touch of heat to suit your tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Drying the chicken ensures that the marinade sticks well, giving maximum flavor.
Season Generously: Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and sets a solid foundation for the marinade.
2. Make the Marinade
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil. The consistency should be smooth and velvety, with the mustard and honey fully incorporated.
Adjust to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon of honey. Want more tang? Add an extra teaspoon of Dijon.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Coat Evenly: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning the pieces to coat them evenly.
Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. For the best results, marinate for up to 2 hours. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidic Dijon can slightly change the chicken’s texture.
4. Preheat the Oven
Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, let the chicken rest at room temperature for a few minutes. This ensures even cooking.
5. Bake the Chicken
Arrange in Baking Dish: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Arrange the breasts in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish.
Add the Marinade: For extra flavor, pour a small amount of the remaining marinade over each chicken breast. This helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze as it bakes.
Bake: Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with its juices to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve
Rest the Chicken: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the chicken for a fragrant and elegant finish.
Serve Warm: Pair the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad. For an extra indulgent meal, drizzle the juices from the baking dish over the chicken and your chosen sides.
Helpful Tips
- Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents drying out.
- Marinating Time: While 30 minutes is enough to infuse the chicken with flavor, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours can make a significant difference.
- Avoid Overcooking: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so aim for an internal temperature of exactly 165°F (74°C).
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Notes
- Storage: Leftover chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven or microwave on medium power until warmed through.
- Freezing: This chicken freezes beautifully. Place individual portions in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Variations: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick, or swap fresh thyme for rosemary for a more earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks work beautifully. Just adjust the baking time to 35–40 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild sweetness of the honey makes it appealing to children. If you have picky eaters, you can reduce the Dijon mustard slightly to tone down the tang.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It’s already dairy-free! Just be sure to use olive oil instead of butter when greasing your baking dish.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken, try these other delicious ideas:
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs: Sweet and savory chicken thighs cooked to perfection in a sticky honey garlic sauce.
- Balsamic Glazed Chicken: A tangy, slightly sweet option that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables.
- Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken: A one-pan wonder bursting with fresh, zesty flavors.
Conclusion
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is the perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. With its golden glaze, juicy interior, and rich aroma, it’s a dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or treating loved ones to a special meal, this recipe is a surefire way to impress.
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Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Classic
Description
Few things compare to the joy of serving a meal that’s both effortless and packed with flavor. This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a true gem, bringing together the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of Dijon mustard in a recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this dish promises to be a foolproof addition to your recipe collection.
Honey Dijon Chicken is a versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Picture a cozy weeknight dinner where the aroma of roasting chicken fills the kitchen, or a casual dinner party where your guests rave about the meal. What makes it special is the perfect balance of flavors: the natural sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with the bold tang of Dijon mustard, creating a rich, sticky glaze that makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ½ cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Rinse and Dry: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Drying the chicken ensures that the marinade sticks well, giving maximum flavor.
Season Generously: Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and sets a solid foundation for the marinade.
2. Make the Marinade
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil. The consistency should be smooth and velvety, with the mustard and honey fully incorporated.
Adjust to Taste: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon of honey. Want more tang? Add an extra teaspoon of Dijon.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Coat Evenly: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning the pieces to coat them evenly.
Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. For the best results, marinate for up to 2 hours. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidic Dijon can slightly change the chicken’s texture.
4. Preheat the Oven
Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, let the chicken rest at room temperature for a few minutes. This ensures even cooking.
5. Bake the Chicken
Arrange in Baking Dish: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Arrange the breasts in a single layer in a lightly greased baking dish.
Add the Marinade: For extra flavor, pour a small amount of the remaining marinade over each chicken breast. This helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze as it bakes.
Bake: Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Pro Tip: Halfway through baking, baste the chicken with its juices to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve
Rest the Chicken: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the chicken for a fragrant and elegant finish.
Serve Warm: Pair the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad. For an extra indulgent meal, drizzle the juices from the baking dish over the chicken and your chosen sides.
Notes
- Storage: Leftover chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven or microwave on medium power until warmed through.
- Freezing: This chicken freezes beautifully. Place individual portions in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Variations: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick, or swap fresh thyme for rosemary for a more earthy flavor.