Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly: The balanced flavors appeal to both adults and children, ensuring a meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Pairings: Complements a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to salads and grains.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a clean surface and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and pour the honey Dijon marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. For enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, baste the chicken with the sauce, and continue baking uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if desired, and serve with your choice of sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes.
- Total Time: About 40-45 minutes.
Variations
- Alternative Sweeteners: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
- Mustard Options: Use whole grain mustard or a combination of Dijon and yellow mustard for varied textures and tastes.
- Herb Infusions: Incorporate herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the marinade for added aroma and depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option. To maintain moisture, cover the chicken while reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used and will provide a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating enhances the flavor but is not essential. If short on time, you can proceed without marinating.
3. Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Absolutely, the marinade can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
4. What sides pair well with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
5. How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. What can I use as a substitute for apple cider vinegar?
Lemon juice or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.
8. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, ensure all ingredients, particularly the mustard, are certified gluten-free.
9. Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like carrots or potatoes can make it a one-pan meal. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
10. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and consider covering the dish with foil during baking to retain moisture.
Conclusion
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, combined with tender, juicy chicken. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to meal for any
Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Discover the simplicity of Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken, a flavorful dish with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe promises tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort.
Ingredients
SEO Optimized Description:
Discover the simplicity of Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken, a flavorful dish with a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe promises tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort.
Recipe Schema Information:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Arrange chicken in a baking dish and coat with marinade. Optionally marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, baste with sauce, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest for a few minutes. Garnish with herbs if desired and serve with preferred sides
Notes
- Substitute honey with maple syrup for a twist.
- For more flavor, add fresh herbs to the marinade.
- Can be prepared with chicken thighs; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
