This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s made with juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey Dijon sauce. Just pop it in the oven and relax!
Who knew dinner could be this simple and delicious? I love serving it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. You’ll definitely want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly and are easy to handle. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even chicken tenders for quicker cooking.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon brings a nice sharpness to the dish. If you’re out, you can use yellow mustard or even a spicy brown mustard for a different flavor. A little vinegar mixed with smooth mustard can also work as a substitute.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness that balances the mustard. If you want a healthier option, maple syrup can replace honey for just as delightful sweetness. Brown sugar mixed with a bit of water is another alternative!
Fresh Garlic: The garlic adds great aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch. Just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove needed.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Comes Out Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked is key to a great meal. Here are steps to ensure your chicken is tender and juicy:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly so that the chicken cooks evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after baking; this helps retain the juices, making it more tender.
If you prefer a bit of a glaze on top, broiling for a couple of minutes at the end adds caramelization and enhances the flavors. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Enjoy your healthy and easy dinner!
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for cooking the chicken evenly. While the oven heats up, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
2. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Keep mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. This sauce is the star of the dish!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Now, take your chicken breasts and place them in the greased baking dish. Pour the honey Dijon sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. This is where all the flavor comes from!
4. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional):
If you’d like a little caramelization, switch your oven to broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep a close eye on it, as things can burn quickly under the broiler!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a more flavorful bite. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if you’re using it, for a nice touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious honey Dijon chicken hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy every bite of this sweet and tangy dish!
Bon appétit!
FAQ: Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces! Just increase the baking time to about 35-45 minutes, making sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The bone-in pieces will also add a bit more flavor to the dish.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you want a healthier or vegan option, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup. Brown sugar mixed with a bit of water can also work in a pinch to provide that sweetness! Just adjust to your taste preference.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon sauce for up to 24 hours in the fridge before baking. This will enhance the flavor! When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it directly from the fridge, but you may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also slice it up to add to salads or wraps for a quick and tasty meal!
