Description

This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a winner for busy weeknights when you need something that’s both delicious and low on prep. With a sauce that’s tangy, sweet, and lightly savory, this recipe brings the best out of humble chicken breasts. The honey and Dijon mustard combine to create a caramelized glaze that clings to each piece, giving you tender bites in every forkful. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies, fluffy rice, or a fresh green salad, and you have a wholesome meal everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/3 cup Dijon mustard – This adds the tangy kick that makes the sauce irresistible.
1/4 cup honey – Provides natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize.
2 tbsp olive oil – For richness and added moisture.
3 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic gives a bit of depth and savoriness.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice – Brightens up the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Season as you like for extra flavor.
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, optional) – A hint of earthiness that complements the honey and mustard.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds color and freshness to the finished dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Honey Dijon Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Stir well until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and thyme, if using, to taste. The mixture should be slightly thick and creamy.
Coat the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish large enough to lay them flat in a single layer. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated on all sides. Use a spoon or brush to distribute the sauce evenly.
Bake the Chicken
Cover the baking dish with foil to help retain moisture as it cooks. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and use a spoon to baste the chicken with the sauce in the dish. This helps to deepen the flavor as the sauce starts to caramelize. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve the chicken warm alongside your choice of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.