Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Craving a meal that’s equal parts simple and delicious? Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is your answer. Its sweet and tangy glaze will make your taste buds dance, and the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make!
Imagine juicy chicken coated in a rich, honey-mustard sauce, baked to golden perfection. This dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and a wholesome meal you can feel good about serving. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe has you covered.
With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dinner that feels gourmet but takes almost no effort. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and the compliments? They’ll be endless.
Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into how you can whip up this irresistible Baked Honey Dijon Chicken in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: This dish comes together quickly but looks and tastes gourmet.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweet honey, tangy mustard, and aromatic herbs create an irresistible combination.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and cooked with minimal fat, this recipe is both nutritious and delicious.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
Ingredients for Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Choose boneless, skinless cuts for easy cooking and juicy results.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness to the glaze.
- Dijon Mustard: A key ingredient for tangy flavor.
- Whole Grain Dijon Mustard (Optional): Adds texture and depth.
- Garlic Powder or Minced Garlic: Balances the sweetness with a savory note.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhances all the flavors.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps the chicken moist during baking.
- Cornstarch (Optional): Helps thicken the sauce if needed.
- Fresh or Dried Herbs: Rosemary and thyme add aromatic, earthy undertones.
- Olive Oil: Ensures a rich texture and prevents sticking.
- Optional Additions: Apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, or lemon juice for a complex flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, chicken broth, and any optional ingredients like apple cider vinegar or soy sauce. Add salt, pepper, and herbs, adjusting to taste.
3. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Combine and Bake
Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Pour the honey Dijon sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
5. Finish Baking
Remove the foil and baste the chicken with the sauce. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Optional: Thicken the Sauce
If you’d like a thicker glaze, remove the chicken from the dish and transfer the sauce to a small saucepan. Heat over medium and whisk in cornstarch mixed with a bit of water. Cook until thickened, then drizzle over the chicken.
How to Serve Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
This versatile dish shines with various accompaniments:
- With Veggies: Pair it with roasted broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: Let the flavorful sauce soak into grains for a satisfying meal.
- In a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve over mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 18g |
FAQs
Can I use other types of mustard?
Yes! Try spicy brown mustard or even yellow mustard for a different twist.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then whisk it into the sauce while heating.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Absolutely, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s fully cooked.
