Description
A simple and flavorful Baked Honey Mustard Chicken recipe that combines the natural sweetness of honey and tangy Dijon mustard with tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish is healthy, comforting, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Honey Mustard Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth, creating a glossy glaze ready to coat the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a baking dish or sheet pan. Generously brush or pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly covered for maximum flavor.
- Bake Until Perfect: Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the top is caramelized with a golden finish.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking to lock in the juices. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a bright, fresh complement before serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for 30 minutes up to overnight before baking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking dish; give chicken pieces room to bake evenly and brown nicely.
- Brush the chicken with additional sauce halfway through baking to boost glaze richness.
- Chicken thighs provide juicier results, while breasts are leaner and require careful baking time.
- The recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free mustard and ingredients.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- This dish freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw and reheat gently to preserve flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg