Description
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs with a flavorful honey Dijon mustard marinade. Marinated for at least 30 minutes and baked to perfection, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, enhanced by fresh garlic and olive oil. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s simple, healthy, and sure to be a family favorite.
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
Garnish
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step ensures the marinade adheres well and promotes even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper, rubbing lightly to evenly coat the surface with the seasoning.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the marinade, turning pieces to coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
- Preheat the Oven: While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Lightly oil or spray a baking dish. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and place the pieces in a single layer inside the dish.
- Coat with Sauce: Brush or spoon the remaining marinade evenly over the tops of the chicken pieces to add extra flavor during baking.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the tops are nicely golden. Tent with foil if the chicken browns too quickly.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, then serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours.
- You can use either chicken breasts or thighs based on preference—thighs will be juicier.
- Tent the chicken with foil if it starts to brown too much before fully cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
- 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
