Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts
Highlighted under: Hearty Kitchen
I absolutely love making Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of honey and mustard creates a savory-sweet glaze that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients! Whether I’m serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish has become a family favorite. It never fails to impress guests, and I often get requests for the recipe. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s so popular!
When I first experimented with honey mustard as a marinade, I was surprised by how well the flavors melded. This recipe was born from my quest for a quick yet delectable chicken dish. Using a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard not only gives a vibrant flavor but it also helps keep the chicken moist while baking. I especially love how adding a sprinkle of seasoning elevates the taste without complicating the process.
One tip I’ve found beneficial is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a dish that bursts with flavor at every bite. It also pairs beautifully with a side of grilled asparagus or mashed potatoes for a wholesome meal!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Savory-sweet glaze that perfectly coats each piece
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
- Moist and tender chicken that everyone will enjoy
Marinade Magic
The honey and mustard in the marinade not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken. This combination creates a beautiful caramelization on the surface when baked, enhancing the dish's visual appeal. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes for marinating can suffice, but for even more depth of flavor, consider letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or up to overnight. This way, the chicken fully absorbs the sweet and tangy notes, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
When preparing the marinade, ensure that it is thoroughly mixed to achieve a uniform flavor across all chicken breasts. The olive oil contributes moisture and helps carry the flavors of the honey and mustard into the meat. If you're looking for a variation, try replacing one part of the Dijon mustard with spicy brown mustard or even whole grain mustard for added texture and an extra kick.
Perfect Baking Techniques
For best results, when baking the chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy. Visual cues to look for include a golden brown glaze and juices running clear. If you notice that the chicken is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing it to continue cooking evenly.
If you want to take this dish up a notch, consider adding additional toppings before serving. Slices of green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add not only flavor but also a beautiful crunch. Pairing this chicken with roasted vegetables or quinoa salad makes for a well-rounded meal that offers different textures and flavors, enhancing the dining experience.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:
Ingredients for Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect baked chicken:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
Prepare the marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Marinate the chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
Bake the chicken
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve and garnish
Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Pro Tips
- To add more depth to the flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs nicely with an array of sides. For a wholesome meal, serve it alongside steamed broccoli or asparagus to complement the dish without overpowering its flavors. You can also place the chicken on a bed of mixed greens for a delightful salad, adding sliced tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
For a heartier option, consider serving the chicken with rice or a grain like farro or quinoa. These grains will soak up any leftover marinade, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the final dish can brighten the flavors, making it even more enjoyable.
Store and Reheat Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method retains the chicken's moisture, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. For faster reheating, you can also use a microwave, though be careful not to overdo it, as that can lead to dryness.
If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, the marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This not only saves time during a busy week but also allows the flavors to meld further, resulting in an even more delicious dinner. Just remember to let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through.
→ Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?
You can use yellow mustard in a pinch, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts
I absolutely love making Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of honey and mustard creates a savory-sweet glaze that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients! Whether I’m serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish has become a family favorite. It never fails to impress guests, and I often get requests for the recipe. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s so popular!
Created by: Mia Jefferson
Recipe Type: Hearty Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips
- To add more depth to the flavor, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g