Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both effortless and delicious, look no further than this Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken. This recipe combines sweet honey and tangy Dijon mustard, creating a flavorful glaze that elevates simple chicken breasts into a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual gathering with friends, this chicken is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
The beauty of Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken lies in its simplicity and flavor. The sticky glaze adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the savory chicken, making it a dish that appeals to both adults and kids alike. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Whether served with roasted vegetables, over a bed of fluffy rice, or alongside a crisp salad, this dish has the flexibility to fit any dining occasion.
What’s in the Bowl
To create this flavorful dish, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients. Here’s what goes into the bowl:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the show, providing a lean protein base.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken properly.
- 1/4 cup honey – Brings sweetness and a sticky texture to the glaze.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – Offers tanginess that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – Enhances flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce for a perfect glaze.
- Chopped parsley (optional) – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Hardware & Gadgets
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth:
- Baking dish – A 9×13-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the honey mustard sauce ingredients.
- Whisk – To blend the sauce ingredients seamlessly.
- Meat thermometer – Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection at 165°F.
- Serving spoon – For serving up your delicious chicken!
The Method for Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
Creating this Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to achieve a mouthwatering result:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. Place the seasoned chicken in a greased baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. This glaze will infuse flavor into the chicken as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the remaining sauce from the baking dish over the top and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you’re missing an ingredient or simply want to customize the dish, here are some easy swaps you can make:
- Chicken breasts – Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Dijon mustard – Substitute with whole grain mustard for added texture.
- Honey – Maple syrup can be an excellent alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Chicken broth – Vegetable broth works well if you prefer a non-meat option.
Testing Timeline
Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the thickness of the chicken breasts. Here’s a guideline to follow:
- Preheat oven: 10 minutes
- Bake covered: 25 minutes
- Bake uncovered: 15-20 minutes
- Resting time: 5 minutes
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken. Just increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the day before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when you’re ready to eat. Just allow a little extra time for baking if the chicken is cold from the fridge.
What should I serve with Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Choose whatever complements your taste and occasion!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! You can easily double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd. Just ensure your baking dish is large enough and adjust the cooking time if necessary to ensure all chicken breasts are cooked through.
Next Steps
Ready to make your own Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get cooking! This recipe is not only simple but also offers a delightful mix of flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or simply looking to treat yourself, this dish is sure to impress.
The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. As you whip up this Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken, remember to enjoy the process and the delicious meal that awaits you. Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. Place the seasoned chicken in a greased baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a different flavor, substitute honey with maple syrup.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for juiciness.
