Description
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs baked in a flavorful honey and Dijon mustard marinade. Enhanced with garlic and a touch of olive oil, this dish is perfect for a quick, delicious weeknight meal. The chicken is marinated to infuse it with sweet and tangy flavors, then baked to golden perfection, making it an effortless yet impressive entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Marinade
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels to ensure the marinade adheres well and cooks evenly.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper, rubbing lightly to cover the surface thoroughly.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil until smooth and fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the bowl, turning it to coat each piece evenly with the sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Lightly oil or spray a baking dish. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and place pieces in a single layer in the dish.
- Coat with Sauce: Brush or spoon the remaining marinade over the tops of the chicken, spreading it evenly for extra flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and golden on top. Tent loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, and serve hot alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use chicken breasts or thighs depending on preference; thighs will be slightly juicier.
- Do not skip patting the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure the marinade sticks well.
- Marinating for longer than 2 hours may result in overly tangy chicken due to mustard acidity.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature to avoid under- or overcooking.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American