This baked honey Dijon chicken is a quick and tasty meal! With chicken, honey, and Dijon mustard, you get a sweet and tangy flavor that everyone will love.
Plus, it’s so easy to make! Just mix the sauce, pour it over the chicken, and let your oven do the magic. You’ll have dinner ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things simple and quick to cook. If you prefer dark meat, feel free to substitute with chicken thighs. They will add a richer flavor!
Dijon Mustard: This is the key ingredient for that tangy bite. If you’re not a fan, you can use whole grain mustard for a different texture or yellow mustard for a milder taste.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness to balance the mustard. Agave syrup or maple syrup works as a great substitute for a different flavor profile, especially if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic brings strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) but fresh is always best for cooking!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice acidity. Lemon juice is a fantastic substitute if you don’t have vinegar on hand, giving a fresh taste to the dish.
How Can You Make Sure Your Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
The trick to perfectly baked chicken lies in proper baking and resting. First, ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature; this helps to cook the chicken evenly. You’ll want to bake it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy.
- If you broil it at the end, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal!
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 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 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 25-30 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll be ready to serve this delicious chicken in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for a perfectly cooked chicken!
2. Prepare the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined, and set this aside.
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Get your baking dish and place the chicken breasts neatly in a single layer. Make sure they fit comfortably without overlapping.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the honey Dijon sauce generously over the chicken breasts. Make sure to coat each piece evenly so that every bite is full of flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer to check if it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Optional Broiling:
If you’d like that nice caramelized top, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just make sure to watch it closely to prevent burning!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in the juices. Finally, garnish it with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, your delicious baked honey Dijon chicken is ready to serve! Enjoy it with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy baked honey Dijon chicken!
FAQ About Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and will provide a juicier result due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to check for doneness, as thighs may take a little longer to cook.
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
If Dijon mustard isn’t available, you can substitute it with whole grain mustard for texture or yellow mustard for a milder taste. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the dish!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also use it in salads or wraps for a quick meal!
Can I Marinate the Chicken in Advance?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken in the honey Dijon sauce for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just remember to refrigerate while marinating.
