There’s something truly remarkable about the way sweet and tangy flavors meld together in a dish. Recently, while rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a bottle of honey mustard that sparked an idea for a delightful dinner: Baked Honey Mustard Chicken. The luscious aroma of this dish wafts through the kitchen, mingling with the warmth of olive oil and fresh rosemary, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather around the table.
After a long day, this one-pan meal became my go-to solution for a satisfying yet simple recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, it transforms humble chicken breasts into a flavor-packed sensation that pleases even the pickiest eaters. This dish can easily become a weeknight staple, bringing both comfort and excitement to dinner.
Join me as I guide you through making this effortlessly delicious Baked Honey Mustard Chicken that’s bound to become a family favorite, providing the perfect balance of ease and taste!
Why is Baked Honey Mustard Chicken a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: The sweet-tangy blend of honey and mustard creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates simple chicken to extraordinary.
Quick preparation: With only 35 minutes total, you can whip up a wholesome meal without the fuss.
One-pan wonder: Everything bakes together, making cleanup a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights!
Family-friendly: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or culinary adventurers, this dish delights everyone at the table.
Versatile serving: Pair it with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits all occasions.
Try this recipe today and enjoy an effortless way to make the Baked Honey Mustard Chicken a new cherished family staple!
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to create this mouthwatering dish.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Perfectly tender, these are the star of the dish!
- 1 teaspoon chicken seasoning blend – Use your favorite blend for extra flavor; salt and pepper work too!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided – Enhances the browning and keeps the chicken juicy.
For the Honey Mustard Sauce
- ¼ cup honey – Adds sweetness; you can substitute with maple syrup for a different twist.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Offers a sharp tang that complements the honey beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard – Provides a classic flavor that balances the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard – Adds texture and complexity to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon white vinegar – Brightens the sauce and enhances the flavors.
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika – Gives a subtle hint of warmth and color to the sauce.
For Garnish (Optional)
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary – Adds a fragrant touch that elevates the dish’s aroma and flavor.
This simple yet elegant list of ingredients will set you on the path to creating unforgettable Baked Honey Mustard Chicken in no time! Enjoy the cooking experience!
How to Make Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
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Preheat the oven to 375°F. This essential step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and develops a lovely golden color.
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Grease a 9×13 baking dish lightly with cooking spray and set it aside. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Heat 1½ tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. This helps to sear the chicken, enhancing its flavor and tenderness.
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Season the chicken breasts generously with the chicken seasoning blend, then add them to the heated skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned.
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Prepare the honey mustard sauce by mixing ½ tablespoon of olive oil, honey, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, wholegrain mustard, white vinegar, and paprika in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined for a silky texture.
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Transfer the browned chicken breasts from the skillet into the greased baking dish. Arrange them with space in between to allow even cooking.
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Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is coated completely for maximum flavor.
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Arrange the sprigs of fresh rosemary between the chicken breasts for an aromatic touch that elevates this dish.
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Cover the baking dish with foil, then bake for 20 minutes. This helps to keep the chicken moist as it cooks.
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Uncover the dish and continue baking for another 15 minutes. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
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Let stand for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken every time.
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Serve your delicious Baked Honey Mustard Chicken warm, and watch it disappear from the dinner table!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh rosemary for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade flavors without the last-minute rush! You can season and sear the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, then cover and refrigerate them to maintain their juiciness. Additionally, prepare the honey mustard sauce and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; this way, the flavors will meld beautifully. When you’re ready to eat, simply transfer the chicken to the baking dish, pour the chilled sauce over, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold. Enjoy your stress-free mealtime with this flavorful dish that tastes just as fresh as if you made it on the spot!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Baked Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and ensures moisture retention.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating: To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps the chicken regain its juiciness and flavor.
Covering: Always cover the chicken with foil while reheating to prevent it from drying out, ensuring a delicious experience every time!
What to Serve with Baked Honey Mustard Chicken?
Bring your meal to life with sides that naturally complement the flavors of the dish and create a memorable dining experience.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes provide comfort and pair beautifully with the sweet tang of the honey mustard sauce. Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast to the chicken.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and crispy, these sprouts add a nutty flavor that balances the dish while bringing in a fresh, vibrant texture.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots echo the honey notes in the chicken and add a splash of color, making your plate visually appealing.
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Mixed Green Salad: Crisp greens tossed with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. This dish allows the flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Light and fluffy quinoa is a healthy, nutty alternative that rounds out the meal, soaking up any stray honey mustard sauce that may linger on your plate.
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Crisp White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc freshens the palate and complements the dish’s flavors, enhancing your dining experience.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp, with its cinnamon-spiced topping, can provide a comforting finish to a delightful meal, echoing the sweet notes in the chicken.
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Peach Iced Tea: This refreshing beverage provides a fruity note that harmonizes with the meal, helping to cleanse your palate between bites.
Expert Tips for Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
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Choose Quality Chicken: Always pick fresh, high-quality chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and flavor; frozen chicken may not yield the same results.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time and use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer; chicken is perfectly done at 165°F.
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Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the honey and mustard ratios based on your taste; too much mustard can overpower the sweetness.
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Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain its juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
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Add Vegetables: Enhance your dish by baking seasonal veggies alongside the chicken for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Embrace these tips, and your Baked Honey Mustard Chicken will be a delightful success!
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that take your Baked Honey Mustard Chicken to new heights!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a fiery touch that ignites the palate.
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Herb Blend: Swap fresh rosemary for thyme or even a mix of Italian herbs to infuse aromatic depth into the dish.
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Citrusy Zest: Incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange into the sauce for a refreshing zing that beautifully complements the honey.
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Nutty Crunch: Top the chicken with crushed pecans or walnuts before baking for an added crunchy texture that contrasts with the tender meat.
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Honey-Sriracha Glaze: Blend honey with sriracha in the sauce for a sweet and spicy glaze that tantalizes taste buds and gives your dish a unique flair.
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Vegetable Medley: Surround the chicken with a mix of seasonal veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots for a colorful, nutritious addition that bakes perfectly alongside the chicken.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream into the sauce for a creamy texture that brings richness to each bite.
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Maple Mustard Mix: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a different sweetness; this simple swap creates a lovely twist while maintaining that signature flavor.
Embrace these variations to create your own signature version of Baked Honey Mustard Chicken — each twist guarantees to bring excitement to your family dinners!
Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for baking?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They should be pink, without any dark spots or signs of freezer burn. Fresh chicken will yield the best flavor and tenderness, making your dish even more delightful.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very easy! Place any leftover Baked Honey Mustard Chicken in an airtight container, and you can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool before sealing, as trapping warm air can lead to moisture, affecting the texture.
Can I freeze Baked Honey Mustard Chicken?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the best texture, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat Baked Honey Mustard Chicken?
I recommend reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in; this ensures the chicken stays juicy and flavorful. You can also check that it’s heated through before serving.
Can I modify the sauce for dietary considerations?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to allergies or dietary needs, try substituting honey with maple syrup for a vegan option. You can also adjust the mustards to avoid any ingredients you may not like or that may trigger allergies. It’s a versatile sauce!
What if my chicken breasts aren’t cooking evenly?
If you find that your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, make sure to check the thickness. If they vary in size, pound them to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures uniform cooking and helps prevent overcooking any one area, ensuring juicy chicken throughout!
Irresistible Baked Honey Mustard Chicken in Under 35 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish lightly with cooking spray and set it aside.
- Heat 1½ tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with the chicken seasoning blend, then add them to the heated skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned.
- Prepare the honey mustard sauce by mixing ½ tablespoon of olive oil, honey, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard, wholegrain mustard, white vinegar, and paprika in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined for a silky texture.
- Transfer the browned chicken breasts from the skillet into the greased baking dish. Arrange them with space in between to allow even cooking.
- Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is coated completely for maximum flavor.
- Arrange the sprigs of fresh rosemary between the chicken breasts.
- Cover the baking dish with foil, then bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover the dish and continue baking for another 15 minutes. Use an Instant Read Meat Thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let stand for 5 minutes after removing from the oven.
- Serve your delicious Baked Honey Mustard Chicken warm.
