This Easy Honey Dijon Baked Chicken is a real winner! Juicy chicken is coated in a tasty mix of honey and Dijon mustard, making every bite sweet and tangy. Yum!
You won’t believe how simple this dish is to prepare. Just mix the sauce, coat the chicken, and let the oven do its magic. Perfect for a busy night or impressing guests!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more richness or even tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Dijon Mustard: This gives the chicken its tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard works too, though it’s milder. For a kick, try whole grain mustard, which adds texture.
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness that balances the mustard. Maple syrup can be a good substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option or if you’re out of honey.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist while it bakes. If you want a flavor twist, use avocado oil or even melted coconut oil. Just keep in mind that coconut oil might change the flavor a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives depth to the sauce. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can work, but fresh is always better for flavor!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, marinating is key! Coating the chicken in the honey Dijon sauce not only flavors it but also provides moisture during cooking. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the sauce for more flavor.
- Avoid overcooking! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
- If you’re broiling at the end, keep a close eye. This adds flavor but can dry out the chicken if left too long.
Easy Honey Dijon Baked 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 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of approximately 40 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color while baking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. This sauce is where most of the flavor comes from, so make sure it’s nicely blended.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Pour the honey Dijon sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. If you can, let it marinate for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done. If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to use it!
5. Optional Broiling:
If you’d like a caramelized top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot with your favorite sides like rice, veggies, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious, tender, and flavorful Honey Dijon Baked Chicken!
FAQ: Easy Honey Dijon Baked Chicken
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup works great as a vegan option. You can also use agave syrup for a similar sweetness, just keep in mind it may change the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the sauce, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavors even more!
