Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavorful and simple dinner that requires minimal effort, the Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. With its perfectly baked chicken breasts coated in a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy glaze, this dish is a showstopper that comes together in no time. The combination of savory spices in the rub and the delightful honey Dijon glaze creates a rich, mouthwatering flavor that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this chicken recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: This dish requires simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The honey Dijon glaze delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, elevating the chicken to a whole new level.
3. Simple Seasoning: The chicken rub is made with pantry staples, adding just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the glaze.
4. Oven-Baked Perfection: The chicken is baked to perfection, ensuring it stays juicy and tender while the glaze caramelizes beautifully.
5. Versatile: This chicken pairs well with almost any side, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh salad.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Chicken Rub:

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Chili powder
• Kosher salt
• Onion powder
• Ground cumin
• Smoked paprika
• Chipotle chili powder (or more to taste)

For the Homemade Honey Dijon Glaze:

• Liquid honey
• Dijon mustard
• Yellow mustard
• Lemon juice
• Apple cider vinegar

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more chipotle chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken rub for an extra layer of heat.
• Mustard Variation: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use all Dijon mustard instead of combining it with yellow mustard.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the glaze for a fragrant twist.
• Honey Alternatives: If you don’t have liquid honey, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave syrup for a different sweetness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot before you bake the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Rub

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, kosher salt, onion powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle chili powder. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Make the Honey Dijon Glaze

In a separate bowl, combine liquid honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the glaze is smooth and all the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

Once the chicken is almost cooked through, remove it from the oven. Brush the honey Dijon glaze generously over the chicken breasts. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with any remaining glaze and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while baking to prevent it from becoming dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup and to prevent the glaze from sticking.
• Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking so the juices can redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
• Make Extra Glaze: If you love the glaze, feel free to make extra and serve it on the side for dipping.

How to Serve

Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. For an Asian twist, pair it with rice or noodles and stir-fried vegetables. You can also serve it alongside couscous or quinoa for a lighter, yet filling option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little extra glaze if desired to keep the chicken moist.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook.

2. Can I use store-bought honey Dijon mustard instead of making my own glaze?

Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought honey Dijon mustard can be used as a glaze alternative.

3. How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

If you prefer a crispy texture, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to crisp up the surface after glazing.

4. Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more chipotle chili powder or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the chicken for extra heat.

6. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

Yes, grilling the chicken works well too. Just be sure to brush the glaze on during the last few minutes of grilling to prevent it from burning.

7. Can I use a different type of mustard?

You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or even whole grain mustard for a different flavor.

8. How can I make this recipe low-sodium?

Use low-sodium versions of soy sauce and mustard, and reduce the amount of salt in the chicken rub.

9. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take slightly longer to cook than chicken breasts.

10. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake the chicken in batches or use multiple baking sheets.

Conclusion

The Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a flavorful, quick, and easy meal that’s sure to impress. With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, it’s a dish that works well for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this chicken will become a staple in your recipe collection. Simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a juicy, tender chicken make this dish a winner every time.

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