This honey mustard baked chicken is juicy, tender, and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s the perfect easy chicken dinner for busy weeknights or family meals. Learn how to bake honey mustard chicken that turns out flavorful every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy with minimal prep
- Family-friendly flavor everyone loves
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the honey mustard sauce
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- ½ tsp paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt and black pepper and place it in the baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, garlic, vinegar, paprika, and olive oil.
- Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken, turning to coat.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a caramelized finish.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
(Optional: add step-by-step or sauce-pouring images for higher engagement.)
Equipment
- Baking dish or casserole dish
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips & Variations
- Extra flavor: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce.
- Spicy version: Stir in chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Different mustard: Yellow mustard works, but Dijon gives the best balance.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with extra sauce.
- Common mistake: Don’t overbake chicken dries out quickly.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Pair with steamed green beans or broccoli
- Add rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for presentation
Nutrition Facts
Per serving – approximate
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 36 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
(Nutrition values are estimates and may vary.)
Conclusion
This honey mustard baked chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, all with minimal prep and easy cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning meals for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed win. Save it for later, print it out, or share it with someone who loves easy chicken dinners.
FAQ
Can I freeze honey mustard baked chicken?
Yes. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
How do I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Thighs stay extra juicy just increase cooking time slightly.
Can I make this recipe in the air fryer?
Yes. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Broil briefly or simmer the sauce separately for a thicker consistency.