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Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is the perfect dish for those who crave a juicy, flavor-packed meal without all the fuss. This sweet and savory delight combines tender chicken with the vibrant tastes of honey, Dijon, and rosemary, making it a staple in my household for cozy dinners or a quick weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and mustard creates a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates simple chicken to new heights.
  • Minimal Effort: With just a few ingredients and one baking dish, you have less cleanup and more time to enjoy.
  • Healthy and Wholesome: Using lean chicken breasts paired with natural sweeteners and spices keeps this meal light and nutritious.
  • Versatile Pairing: This chicken dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to a fresh green salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken lies in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Let’s break down these key ingredients and see what makes them essential for this recipe.

  • Honey: Provides natural sweetness and caramelizes during baking for a rich, golden-brown crust.
  • Dijon Mustards: Both regular and whole grain give the sauce complexity with a punch of heat and a bit of texture.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds the perfect amount of tang to balance the sweetness of the honey.
  • Soy Sauce: Enhances the umami flavor and adds salty depth (use tamari or skip for gluten-free).
  • Garlic: Offers an aromatic base note that infuses the chicken with deep, savory goodness.
  • Chicken Breasts/Thighs: The choice of protein here absorbs all the delicious marinade while staying tender and moist.
  • Rosemary: Aromatic sprigs that impart an earthy fragrance, completing the sensory experience.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing it to cater to different tastes or dietary requirements. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade if you crave a bit of heat.
  • Citrus Zest: Mix in some lemon or orange zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy twist.
  • Herbal Touch: Swap rosemary with thyme or basil for a different aromatic experience.
  • Meat-Free: Use firm tofu or cauliflower steaks in place of chicken for a vegetarian option.

How to Make Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by whisking together honey, both types of Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and grated garlic in a mixing bowl. This mixture creates a harmonious blend of sweetness, tang, and savory notes. Be sure to season it with salt and pepper to taste, providing a balanced base for your chicken to soak up.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Toss the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in a baking dish, nestled alongside a few sprigs of rosemary for added aroma. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with robust flavors before it even hits the oven.

Step 3: Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and let the chicken bake for 25-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the internal temperature reaches a safe and juicy 165°F (75°C). As it cooks, the honey and mustard meld into a luscious glaze, while the chicken becomes tender and succulent.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken

  • Marinade Magic: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if time permits, for maximum flavor infusion.
  • Roasting Right: For even cooking, ensure chicken pieces are of uniform size and not overcrowded in the baking dish.
  • Sauce Save: Drizzle excess sauce from the baking dish over the chicken just before serving for extra moisture and flavor.
  • Herb Substitute: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for varied flavor profiles.

How to Serve Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives can add a pop of color and bright, herbal notes to your Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken. Slices of lemon on the side can also enhance its aromatic appeal and offer a zesty squeeze option for those who enjoy a citrusy finish.

Side Dishes

Pair this delightful chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or a grain like quinoa to soak up the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, serve with steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad, creating a balanced meal that satisfies all palates.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, slice the chicken into pieces and fan them out on a platter. Drizzle with pan drippings, and garnish with rosemary sprigs for a restaurant-quality dish that feels special yet comforting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken should be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, it will remain fresh for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep or quick lunches.

Freezing

For a longer shelf-life, freeze the cooked chicken portions in a sealed freezer bag or container, ensuring all air is removed to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and it can be enjoyed for up to three months post-freeze.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist, ensuring it’s warmed through for optimal enjoyment.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of mustard in this recipe?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spicy brown mustard or a sweet honey mustard for a different take that complements the honey glaze beautifully.

  2. Is there an alternative to apple cider vinegar?

    Yes, you can swap it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice, both of which will provide the necessary acidity to balance the dish.

  3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

    Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce, or omit it altogether if you prefer, to ensure the dish is fully gluten-free.

  4. What’s the best way to check if the chicken is done?

    The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is properly cooked once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply offering your family a nutritious meal, Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a winning choice. Bursting with savory sophistication, its simplicity and delightful flavors will win over even the pickiest eaters. Give it a try, and let its ease and taste make it a regular feature on your menu!

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Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 746 reviews
  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a flavorful and tender dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the tang of Dijon mustard. Perfectly baked in the oven with aromatic rosemary, it’s a simple yet delicious meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken Marinade and Sauce

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons whole grain Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari or omit for gluten-free)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
  • 23 sprigs of rosemary

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Toss the chicken breasts or thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Arrange in baking dish: Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken and distribute the sprigs of rosemary around and on top of the chicken.
  4. Bake the chicken: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the chicken uncovered for about 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
  5. Serve: Remove from the oven and spoon the pan sauce over the chicken. Serve hot, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
  • For a more caramelized glaze, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
  • Best served with steamed vegetables or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 200g)
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

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