If you’re looking for a delicious and effortless dinner that’s both flavorful and family-friendly, this Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe is your new go-to. With a mouthwatering balance of sweet honey, zesty Dijon mustard, and tender baked chicken, it’s the kind of dish that feels fancy—but takes minimal effort.
Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even casual entertaining, this dish is made with simple pantry staples and comes together in just one baking dish. That means less cleanup, less stress, and more time to enjoy a flavorful homemade meal.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Dijon Chicken
- 🍯 Sweet and tangy flavor that even picky eaters love
- 🍗 Juicy, tender chicken every time, thanks to oven baking
- 🕒 Quick prep—just 5 minutes to mix and pour
- 🧂 Minimal ingredients, all pantry-friendly
- 🧽 One-pan recipe, which means easy cleanup
- 🍽️ Versatile—pair it with rice, veggies, or salad for a complete meal
Key Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this baked honey mustard chicken:
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs – Boneless, skinless chicken works best. Use breasts for leaner meat or thighs for extra juiciness.
- Honey – Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the top.
- Dijon Mustard – Brings bold flavor and depth; you can mix in some whole-grain mustard for texture.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the savory notes.
- Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Adds moisture and helps the sauce bake into the chicken.
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or thyme for extra flavor (optional).
Optional Add-Ins
- A splash of lemon juice for brightness
- A pinch of paprika, thyme, or rosemary for herb flavor
- A spoonful of soy sauce for extra umami
- Whole grain mustard for texture variation
How to Make Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken
🥣 Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment for easier cleanup.
🍗 Step 2: Arrange Chicken
Place chicken breasts or thighs in a single layer in the baking dish. Pat them dry with paper towels for better sauce absorption.
🧄 Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2–3 cloves minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken.
🔥 Step 4: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For extra caramelization, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
🌿 Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or lemon slices if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This baked honey Dijon chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed rice or quinoa
- Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes
- Grilled or roasted vegetables (like asparagus, carrots, or broccoli)
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Buttered noodles or pasta
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes beforehand for deeper flavor (optional).
- Double the sauce if you want extra for drizzling over sides.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations to Try
- 🧄 Garlic Lover’s Version: Add extra garlic and top with roasted garlic cloves.
- 🥘 Sheet Pan Style: Bake with potatoes, carrots, or green beans on the same tray.
- 🌶️ Spicy Kick: Add a touch of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- 🧀 Cheesy Topping: Add shredded mozzarella or parmesan in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor. With minimal prep and ingredients, it’s a dish you can turn to again and again—whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or impressing guests with something that looks (and tastes) gourmet.
So the next time you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make—reach for this simple, satisfying recipe. It’s a little sweet, a little tangy, and absolutely delicious.