This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a winner! It combines sweet honey with tangy Dijon mustard for a yummy glaze that flavors juicy chicken perfectly.
I love how simple it is—just mix the glaze, coat the chicken, and pop it in the oven! You can pair it with veggies or rice for a complete meal. Dinner made easy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts make this recipe quick and easy. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor, or even use tofu if you’re looking for a meat-free option.
Dijon Mustard: This gives the chicken a tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon on hand, regular mustard or honey mustard can work, but the taste will change slightly. I personally prefer the kick that Dijon brings!
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can use maple syrup or a sugar-free sweetener as alternatives. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth to the glaze. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder will do—just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove you’re replacing.
How Do I Get a Great Glaze on My Chicken?
To achieve a delicious glaze, it’s crucial to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce before baking. Here’s how to make it shine:
- Mix your glaze ingredients well until smooth to help it spread easily.
- Coating: Ensure every piece of chicken is fully covered. This allows the chicken to absorb all the flavor while cooking.
- Broiling Tip: To finish with a golden, caramelized layer, broil for a couple of minutes at the end, but keep a close eye on it!
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 pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and easy meal that’s full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is key for getting the chicken cooked perfectly and achieving a lovely glaze.
2. Whisk Together the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried thyme (if using). Whisk them together until the mixture is nice and smooth—this will be your delicious glaze!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them well with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step enhances the overall flavor.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish that’s large enough for all the pieces. Make sure they have a little space around them to cook evenly.
5. Coat the Chicken:
Now, pour that tasty honey Dijon mixture over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated; this is where the magic happens!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked through, which means the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
7. Add the Final Touch:
If you want a nice crispy glaze, you can switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! A little bubbly and golden on top is what you’re after.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your honey Dijon chicken hot with your favorite sides like rice or roasted veggies.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy baked honey Dijon chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative; they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or honey mustard. Keep in mind that the taste will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon mix for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. A splash of water or broth while reheating can help maintain moisture.
