Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Easy Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe: A Golden Baked Delight

Tantalizing aromas of honey dijon chicken fill the kitchen with irresistible warmth and comfort.

This delectable dish blends sweet and tangy flavors into a mouthwatering meal that demands attention.

Tender chicken breasts coated in a rich, golden glaze promise a delightful dining experience.

The simple ingredients combine effortlessly to create a restaurant-worthy dinner you can whip up in minutes.

Weeknight meals never looked so good with this foolproof recipe that impresses without complicated techniques.

Succulent and packed with flavor, this honey dijon chicken will become a staple in your recipe collection.

Flavor Variations For Dijon Chicken Fans

  • Spicy Honey Sriracha Chicken: Replace Dijon mustard with Sriracha sauce for a fiery kick, adding red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken: Swap honey Dijon mixture with lemon juice, oregano, rosemary, and olive oil for a zesty Mediterranean flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Almond Crusted Version: Coat chicken with crushed almonds before adding honey Dijon sauce to create a crunchy, gluten-free alternative.
  • Low-Carb Coconut Mustard Chicken: Use coconut aminos instead of honey and add shredded coconut for a low-carb, paleo-friendly option.

Serving Honey Dijon Chicken With Flair

  • Elegant Pairing Plate: Serve alongside roasted asparagus and quinoa for a balanced, nutrient-rich meal that complements the chicken's sweet and tangy flavors.
  • Rustic Family Feast: Spread chicken over a bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, drizzling extra sauce for added moisture and depth of taste.
  • Fresh Garden Companion: Create a crisp mixed green salad with light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the honey Dijon glaze, providing a refreshing contrast.
  • Weekend Brunch Twist: Slice chicken and layer on toasted artisan bread with a dollop of herbed goat cheese for a gourmet sandwich experience that elevates the original recipe.

Storing Baked Chicken For Next Day Lunches

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring it's completely cooled before sealing.
  • Wrap individual chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, checking temperature to prevent drying out.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth, cover with foil, and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated evenly.

FAQs

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few more minutes to cook through compared to chicken breasts.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free Dijon mustard. Always check the mustard label to confirm.

  • How can I make the chicken more flavorful?

For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon mixture for 30 minutes to 2 hours before baking. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat more deeply.

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Highlights

  • Whip Up Quickly: This chicken recipe requires minimal prep work, letting you toss ingredients together in mere minutes for a delicious meal.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combo: Honey and Dijon create a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it appealing to both kids and adults with different taste preferences.
  • Healthy Weeknight Winner: Lean chicken breasts paired with a simple, nutritious sauce provide a protein-packed dinner that supports clean eating without sacrificing taste.
  • Minimal Kitchen Cleanup: Using just one baking dish means less washing up, giving you more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

Ingredient Essentials For Honey Dijon Chicken

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender meat that serves as the primary protein in this delicious recipe.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Dijon Mustard, Honey: A perfect sweet and tangy combination that creates a flavorful glaze for the chicken.
  • Olive Oil: Helps to distribute the marinade evenly and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides a bright, acidic note that tenderizes the chicken and balances the sweetness.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic flavor that complements the honey and mustard.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the chicken.
  • Fresh Thyme: A garnish that brings a delicate herbal touch and adds visual appeal to the finished dish.

How To Bake Honey Dijon Chicken At Home

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 375°F and get ready for a flavor explosion.

This temperature will help create a perfectly golden and juicy chicken dish that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 2: Create Magical Marinade

In a mixing bowl, blend together these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Dijon mustard
  • Honey
  • Olive oil
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Minced garlic
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Whisk everything until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy, creating a sauce that’ll make your chicken sing with flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken for Flavor Bath

Place chicken breasts in a baking dish, then lovingly pour the honey Dijon mixture all over them.

Make sure each piece gets completely coated, massaging the marinade into every nook and cranny.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven.

Let the chicken bake for 25-30 minutes, transforming into a golden, succulent masterpiece.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F – use a meat thermometer to check.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top for a burst of herbal freshness.

Serve immediately with your favorite sides, ready to impress everyone at the dinner table.

Tips For Sweet And Savory Chicken Results

  • Pat chicken dry before marinating to help the sauce adhere better and prevent soggy texture.
  • Use whole grain or smooth Dijon mustard for richer, more complex flavor profiles.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking, keeping meat juicy and tender.
  • Let chicken marinate for 30 minutes before baking to allow seasonings to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
  • Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan option or use gluten-free Dijon mustard for those with sensitivities.
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Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe


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4.9 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent honey dijon chicken delivers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors for weeknight dinner magic. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this dish a delightful choice you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar

Seasoning and Herbs:

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375°F, creating an ideal cooking environment for succulent chicken breasts.
  2. Craft a vibrant marinade by blending Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, whisking until smooth and well-integrated.
  3. Arrange chicken breasts in a baking dish, ensuring each piece receives an even, generous coating of the tangy-sweet marinade.
  4. Slide the prepared dish into the preheated oven, allowing the chicken to roast for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.
  5. Once fully cooked, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest briefly to seal in moisture.
  6. Enhance the presentation by delicately sprinkling fresh thyme leaves across the golden-brown chicken.
  7. Serve immediately alongside your preferred accompaniments, presenting a delectable main course that balances robust flavors and tender texture.

Notes

  • Make sure chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking, preventing dry or undercooked sections.
  • Pat chicken dry before marinating to help sauce stick better and create a more golden, crispy exterior.
  • Swap honey with maple syrup for a lower glycemic index option or use agave for vegan alternatives.
  • Let chicken rest 5-10 minutes after baking to lock in juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 271 kcal
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 223 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11 g
  • Fiber: 0.3 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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