Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken

This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a flavorful and effortless dish that combines the tanginess of Dijon mustard with the sweetness of honey, resulting in a deliciously glazed, juicy chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or simple family dinners, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor with just a handful of pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Requires only a few simple ingredients

• Quick and easy to prepare

• Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy flavor

• Bakes in one dish—minimal cleanup

• Family-friendly and ideal for weeknight meals

• Easily customizable with herbs or spices

• Pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes

• Great for meal prep and leftovers

• Naturally gluten-free

• A healthier alternative to fried or heavily sauced chicken dishes

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• Dijon mustard

• Honey

• Olive oil

• Garlic (minced)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Fresh rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Place the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish.

4. Pour the honey Dijon mixture evenly over the chicken, turning each piece to coat fully.

5. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh rosemary if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the honey Dijon mixture.

• Herbed Version: Mix in dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the marinade.

• With Veggies: Add sliced carrots, potatoes, or green beans to the baking dish for a one-pan meal.

• Grainy Mustard: Swap half the Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard for added texture.

• Thighs Instead of Breasts: Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until warm. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to maintain moisture.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and may even be more flavorful.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken in the honey Dijon mixture for up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

What can I serve with honey Dijon chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your mustard label for any additives.

Can I freeze baked honey Dijon chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overbaking, and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Yes, hearty vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or potatoes can be added to the dish before baking.

What type of Dijon mustard is best?

Use classic smooth Dijon mustard for the best flavor balance. Avoid using yellow mustard, as it alters the taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just ensure your baking dish is large enough so the chicken isn’t overcrowded, and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, it delivers a satisfying and wholesome meal the entire family will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or prepping ahead for lunches, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.