This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken brings together the sweet taste of honey and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard. It’s yummy and makes the chicken super juicy!
This dish is a big hit at my dinner table. I love how quickly it cooks, leaving me time to enjoy the evening without worrying about dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, you can use thighs, which will keep the dish juicy. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a nice tang. If you prefer less spice, yellow mustard is a suitable substitute. For a twist, try whole grain mustard for added texture and flavor!
Honey: Honey is the star for sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup is a great alternative. Just remember, it might change the flavor slightly but still taste good!
Olive Oil: I like olive oil for its health benefits and flavor. You can also use avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you have those on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings great flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder works! Use about 1/4 teaspoon to replace each clove.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken is all about marinating and the right cooking temperature. Here’s how:
- Coat the chicken well with the honey Dijon mixture. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes if time allows. This helps the flavors soak in!
- Set your oven to 400°F. This higher temperature helps seal in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer! Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tender bite.
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, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to enjoying a delicious dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the chicken when you’re done preparing it.
2. Make the Honey Dijon Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture is what will make your chicken so flavorful!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Pour the honey Dijon mix all over the chicken, making sure every piece is covered nicely.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.
5. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you like a crispy topping, switch to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
6. Rest and Serve:
After baking, carefully take the chicken out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Serve it garnished with freshly chopped parsley, alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your tasty Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken! It’s not just simple; it’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just note that bone-in chicken will take longer to cook, approximately 35-45 minutes, depending on the size. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the honey Dijon mixture. You can also use spicy mustard instead of Dijon for a more robust flavor.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in the honey Dijon mixture overnight will enhance the flavors. Just be sure to cover it and refrigerate. If marinating for too long, it’s best to limit it to 12 hours to avoid the chicken becoming too salty.
What Are the Best Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently in the oven to keep the chicken from drying out.
