This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty treat that brings together sweet honey and zesty Dijon mustard. It’s super simple to make and the flavor is delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor and moisture if you prefer.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a milder taste, you might try yellow mustard, or for a little kick, whole grain mustard works nicely too!
Honey: Honey provides sweetness and helps create a nice glaze. If you need a sugar-free option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be good alternatives, though they will change the flavor slightly.
Olive Oil: Provides moisture and helps the chicken to brown. You can swap it for melted butter or another oil, like canola or avocado oil, if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but I’ve got tips to help! First, always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- If you want extra juiciness, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Broiling at the end can give a lovely golden top, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
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 (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy dinner option. You’ll have delicious, sticky-sweet chicken ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, your chicken will bake evenly and become perfectly tender!
2. Make the Honey Dijon Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish in a single layer. You want them to have enough space so they cook fully without steaming.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Pour the honey Dijon mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is coated in that tasty glaze. Feel free to use a brush or the back of a spoon to spread it out smoothly!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil for a Golden Finish:
If you want an extra touch, switch your oven to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. This will give your chicken a beautiful golden glaze, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
7. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Enjoy your juicy and flavorful Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken with your favorite side dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in or skin-on chicken thighs or legs for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If Dijon mustard isn’t available, you can use yellow mustard for a milder flavor or whole grain mustard for added texture. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the honey Dijon mixture and coat the chicken a few hours ahead. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, taking care not to dry it out.
