Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish that will please both your family and friends, look no further than this Baked Honey Mustard Chicken. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and the combination of honey and mustard creates a sweet and tangy glaze that makes chicken breasts shine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is not only delectable but also comes together in a snap. The marinade is made with common pantry ingredients, and the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve it alongside roasted vegetables, over a bed of greens, or with a side of rice. With its beautiful golden glaze, this dish is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
- ½ cup yellow mustard
- ½ cup stone-ground mustard
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tbsp Italian dressing
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Equipment & Tools
- Mixing bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Baking dish – To hold the chicken while it bakes.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cooking spray – To prevent the chicken from sticking to the baking dish.
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken: How It’s Done
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop that beautiful glaze.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow mustard, stone-ground mustard, honey, Italian dressing, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Whisk until fully combined. This sweet and tangy mixture is what gives the chicken its wonderful flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
In a baking dish, spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts inside and pour the marinade over the top. Ensure that each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Dietary Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that your mustards and Italian dressing are gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: You can reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with a low-carb sweetener.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Pro Perspective
This Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Slice it up for salads, or serve it cold with a side of roasted vegetables. The flavors only get better as they marinate together in your fridge! For a fun twist, try pairing it with Parmesan Crusted Chicken Cutlets for a delicious chicken dinner experience.
Best Ways to Store
To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Quick Q&A
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will provide even more juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What can I serve with Baked Honey Mustard Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can even serve it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This will enhance the flavors even more.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and divide it into portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
The Takeaway
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors that come together effortlessly. With its sweet and tangy glaze, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, this chicken will always impress. Dive into this delightful recipe and watch it become a favorite in your home!
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and develop that beautiful glaze.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow mustard, stone-ground mustard, honey, Italian dressing, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Whisk until fully combined.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a baking dish, spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts inside and pour the marinade over the top. Ensure that each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Feel free to customize the herbs to your taste for added flavor.
