When I first made this baked honey mustard chicken recipe, I couldn’t believe how flavorful and simple it was to prepare. With a blend of tangy mustards, sweet honey, and fresh rosemary, the chicken turned out irresistibly juicy and tender.
I served it alongside steamed veggies and buttery noodles, and everyone at the table instantly fell in love! If you’ve been looking for a delicious yet straightforward chicken recipe, you’ll love this one. You can also enjoy similar savory chicken dishes with this Chicken Philly Sandwich Recipe for your next meal plan!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
This recipe uses simple ingredients yet creates an extraordinary flavor. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4-5, 8 oz each)
These are perfect for soaking up the rich honey mustard sauce. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. - Whole grain mustard (1/4 cup)
Adds a fantastic texture with a slightly tangy kick. - Dijon mustard (2 tablespoons)
Offers a smooth, sharp flavor to enhance the mustard mix. - Yellow mustard (2 tablespoons)
Balances the mustard blend with its mild, familiar taste. - Honey (1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons)
Sweetens the dish while perfectly complementing the mustard. Fresh honey gives the best flavor. - Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
Used to sauté the onions and add richness to the sauce. - Yellow onion (1 cup, finely chopped)
Provides a savory base with caramelized sweetness. - Garlic (1 tablespoon, minced)
Aromatic and flavorful, pairs wonderfully with the mustard. - Fresh rosemary sprigs (4 small sprigs)
Adds a woodsy aroma that elevates the dish. - Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Enhances all the natural flavors in this recipe.
Note: This recipe serves 4-5 people. Adjust the ingredients accordingly if serving fewer or more people.
Best Recipe Variations
Looking to customize this dish? Here are a few creative ideas:
- Dairy-Free Option
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it ideal for those with dietary restrictions. - Sugar-Free Version
Replace honey with a sugar-free maple syrup substitute to reduce the sugar content while keeping the sweetness. - Herb Swaps
If rosemary isn’t your favorite, try thyme or tarragon for a similar herbal flavor. - Spicy Kick
Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the mustard mix for a zesty twist.
For dinner ideas that pair well with baked honey mustard chicken, check out these dinner recipes and create a meal to remember!
Cooking Time
Making this baked honey mustard chicken is quick and easy. Here’s the time breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
Make sure you have the following equipment handy:
- Mixing bowl
Ideal for whisking the honey mustard sauce ingredients together. - Small skillet
Used to sauté the onions and garlic until golden brown. - Baking dish (13 x 9 inches)
Ensures even cooking for all the chicken pieces. - Instant-read thermometer
Helps you accurately check if the chicken is cooked to perfection (165°F). - Foil
Useful to tent over the chicken if the sauce starts to caramelize too much during baking.
How to Make Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
This step-by-step guide will lead you through the process of creating a flavorful dish your whole family will adore.
Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
Start by whisking the whole grain mustard, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl. This sauce forms the base of the recipe and balances savory and sweet flavors perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the remaining olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they’re golden and slightly caramelized. Toss in the garlic for the last 30 seconds of cooking. Spread this aromatic mixture evenly on the bottom of your baking dish.
Step 3: Season and Layer the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them generously with salt and pepper. Arrange them over the onion and garlic layer in the baking dish. Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Add Fresh Rosemary
Place the rosemary sprigs strategically between the chicken breasts. The earthy aroma of rosemary will infuse the chicken as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F at the thickest part. If necessary, tent the dish with foil towards the end to prevent the sauce from burning. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my own experience, these tips can make an already amazing dish even better:
- Caramelize for Extra Flavor
Spend a little more time caramelizing the onions for added depth. - Thin Chicken Breasts
If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking. - Rest the Chicken
Allow the chicken to rest after baking to keep it juicy. - Prep Sauce Ahead
Make the mustard sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day to save prep time.
How to Serve Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
This dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas to inspire your next dinner spread:
- Garnish with extra rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
- A side of roasted root vegetables or a simple green salad makes this a hearty meal.
- For a cozy twist, serve the chicken atop mashed potatoes with the honey mustard sauce spooned over.
You can also serve it with fluffy steamed rice or try this quick and easy Chinese chicken fried rice for a flavorful pairing.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll get per serving:
- Calories: 277
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 7g
How to Store the Dish
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Freezing
Freeze the chicken in an airtight bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. - Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
With so much to love, this chicken recipe might just become a regular on your menu!
- Easy to Prepare
Requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for weeknights. - Full of Flavor
A delightful blend of sweet and savory with aromatic herbs. - Versatile
Works well with various side dishes and flavor profiles. - Customizable
Adapt the recipe for dietary needs or to suit your preferences. - Great for Leftovers
Packs beautifully for lunch or reheats effortlessly for another meal.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs rather than chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They may require an additional 5 minutes of baking time.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken and sauce, assemble it in the baking dish, and refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply use a larger baking dish and double the ingredient quantities.