Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that has earned its spot in my dinner rotation. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates an irresistible glaze that makes even the simplest chicken breasts feel gourmet. I love how this dish transforms into a comforting meal with little effort, making it ideal for families or anyone looking for a burst of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to make Baked Honey Dijon Chicken. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for weeknights when you’re juggling work or kids’ activities. Secondly, it requires just a handful of common ingredients, making it budget-friendly. You likely have most of them in your pantry already! And let’s not forget the taste; the blend of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and aromatic garlic creates a dish that’s kid-approved and sure to please picky eaters.
“This honey Dijon chicken recipe is my go-to for quick dinners! The flavor is amazing, and it gets a thumbs-up from my kids every time!” – Sarah J.
Preparing Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Creating this dish is a breeze and can be broken down into simple steps. You’ll preheat your oven, mix the flavorful marinade, coat the chicken, and let the oven do all the work. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have juicy chicken ready to serve. Let’s delve into the specifics.
What you’ll need
Here’s a list of the key ingredients to gather before you start cooking:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
If you’re in a pinch, feel free to swap out the honey for maple syrup for a vegan twist, or use whole grain mustard if you prefer a more textured sauce.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish that can comfortably fit the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well blended.
- Coat the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the greased baking dish, then pour the honey Dijon mixture over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Bake: Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Baked Honey Dijon Chicken offers great versatility on the dinner table. Serve it alongside fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the lovely sauce. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad would complement the savory yet sweet flavor nicely. For a casual twist, consider shredding leftovers for use in tacos or wraps.
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), be sure to store them correctly. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to defrost it in the fridge before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
- To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon mixture for a few hours (or overnight) before baking.
- If you’re short on time, using a pre-made rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! Just top it with the honey Dijon sauce and bake for about 15 minutes to warm it through.
- For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Creative twists
While the classic honey Dijon flavor is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Consider adding spices like paprika or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. You could also switch it up with different mustards—try a whole grain for added texture or even spicy brown mustard for a kick. Want to make it tropical? Add pineapple juice to the marinade for a fruity twist.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Baked Honey Dijon Chicken?
Prep time is just about 10 minutes. Cook time takes an additional 25-30 minutes, so you can have dinner on the table in about 40 minutes.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can pre-mix the honey Dijon sauce and even marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Check to make sure the Dijon mustard you’re using is gluten-free. Most brands are, but always good to double-check.
Enjoy making this delightful dish that’s sure to impress without overwhelming your schedule! Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a gateway to delicious family dinners and memorable moments around the table.
Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish that can comfortably fit the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well blended.
- Place the chicken breasts into the greased baking dish, then pour the honey Dijon mixture over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
