Description
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs coated in a flavorful blend of Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and olive oil. Marinated to infuse the flavors, then baked to golden perfection, this dish is perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
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. This step helps the marinade stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper. Rub it in lightly to ensure the seasoning covers the surface evenly.
- 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 and turn it so every piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For a deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven: As the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly oil or spray a baking dish. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the pieces in the dish in a single layer.
- Apply remaining marinade: Brush or spoon the remaining marinade over the tops of the chicken, spreading it evenly to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Bake the chicken: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and nicely golden on top. If the chicken browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor but avoid exceeding 2 hours to prevent the acid in mustard from breaking down the meat too much.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- This recipe works well with either chicken breasts or thighs—choose based on your preference for lean or more flavorful meat.
