This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner is a tasty combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Juicy chicken is coated in a honey and Dijon mustard mix, then baked to perfection!
You won’t believe how simple this meal is! I love serving it with roasted veggies, making dinner a breeze. Plus, it always gets everyone in the family smiling at the table! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, but you can use thighs if you prefer darker meat. They’ll be more juicy! Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Dijon Mustard: This gives the chicken a nice kick. If you don’t have Dijon, whole grain mustard works well too. Yellow mustard can be used, but the flavor will be milder.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness but you can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar effect. You might even try brown sugar mixed with a little water as a last resort!
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances moisture and flavor. You can swap it with vegetable or canola oil without losing much taste.
Fresh Herbs: For thyme, you can use other herbs like rosemary or oregano if that’s what you have. Fresh herbs are great if you have them on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Always Juicy and Tender?
To keep chicken juicy, seasoning and cooking time are everything! Start by marinating your chicken in the honey Dijon mixture for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Using a meat thermometer helps you avoid overcooking. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after baking. This will keep the juices locked in.
These simple tips will guarantee you serve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or thyme
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and easy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, you can prepare the chicken and the sauce!
2. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon juice (if you’re using it). Whisk until everything is well combined, and you have a lovely, smooth sauce.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a greased baking dish. Pour the honey Dijon sauce over the chicken. Make sure to turn the chicken over so each piece is generously coated with the delicious sauce.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as cooking time can vary. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through at 165°F (74°C).
5. Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you’d like a nice caramelized top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning!
6. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the oven, and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken nice and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving. You can pair it with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ for Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Thawing chicken in the fridge overnight is ideal.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use whole grain mustard for a similar flavor. Yellow mustard works too, though it will be milder in taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even mix a little horseradish with mustard for some extra zing!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist while reheating!
What Side Dishes Go Well with This Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative! Steamed broccoli or green beans also make great sides for a balanced meal.
