Description
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. This easy, one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs)
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh rosemary or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the honey mustard sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary or parsley.
Notes
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate in the honey mustard sauce for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before baking.
- Adjust Sweetness & Tanginess: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey. If you like it tangier, increase the mustard or lemon juice.
- Prevent Dryness: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps keep the chicken moist and juicy. Remove the foil to allow it to brown.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness.
- Thighs vs. Breasts: Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts and are a great option if you prefer more tender meat. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Sauce Thickness: If you want a thicker sauce, you can simmer it separately in a pan for a few minutes before pouring it over the chicken.
- Make It a Meal: Add sliced potatoes, carrots, or green beans to the baking dish for a complete, one-pan meal.
