Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Honey Dijon Marinade/Sauce
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving (optional)
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper. Rub it in lightly to ensure the seasoning covers the surface.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil until smooth and fully combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the bowl, turning it so every piece is thoroughly coated with the sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. Marinate up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Oven: As the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish: Lightly oil or spray a baking dish. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the pieces in the dish in a single layer.
- Coat with Sauce: Brush or spoon the remaining marinade over the tops of the chicken, spreading evenly.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and nicely golden on top. If the chicken browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let rest 2–3 minutes, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- To make the dish gluten free, confirm your Dijon mustard is labeled gluten-free.
- Adjust the amount of Dijon for a milder flavor if serving children.
- You can use chicken drumsticks or other cuts if desired; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- If you prefer, substitute honey with maple syrup for a new twist.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- For extra flavor, garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- This recipe is easily doubled to serve a crowd—just use a larger baking dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (about 6 oz, with sauce)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg