Description
This Baked Honey Dijon Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful mixture of Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, and herbs, then baked to juicy perfection. It’s a simple, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with an aromatic herbaceous finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the honey Dijon marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for more intense flavor penetration.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, pouring any leftover marinade on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot alongside your favorite sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked without drying out.
- You can substitute apple cider vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a brighter acidity.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve moisture.
