Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken

If you’re craving a dinner that’s both simple and packed with flavor, this Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is your new go-to. Juicy chicken breasts get bathed in a luscious, tangy honey mustard sauce and baked to perfection, making for a comforting meal that comes together with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just want an uncomplicated recipe that impresses, this dish fits the bill beautifully. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe stand out and how you can master it in your kitchen tonight!

Why This Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Stands Out

This recipe is beloved for its simplicity and balanced flavors, combining the sweet richness of honey with the sharp, tangy bite of Dijon mustard. The chicken remains tender and moist thanks to baking in a flavorful broth-based sauce, avoiding dryness that often plagues baked chicken breast recipes. Plus, the sauce is thickened just right with cornstarch, coating the chicken in a glossy glaze that’s irresistible.

You don’t need a ton of ingredients or complicated steps—just a handful of pantry staples and some fresh chicken breasts to create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. The optional chopped parsley adds a fresh herbal note, brightening every bite.

Ingredient List

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish, trimmed and ready to bake
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – adds warmth and depth
• Salt & pepper to taste – essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors
• 1/4 cup honey – provides natural sweetness and helps create the glaze
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard – for that signature tang and slight pungency; make sure to pick your favorite brand
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – keeps the chicken moist and contributes savory notes
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the sauce to a perfect consistency
• Chopped parsley (optional) – for garnish and a fresh pop of color

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Baking dish or casserole pan – wide enough to lay out the chicken breasts in a single layer
• Small bowl – to whisk together your honey mustard sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
• Whisk or fork – to blend the sauce ingredients smoothly
• Small saucepan – to cook and thicken the sauce
• Meat thermometer (optional) – to check chicken doneness perfectly

Cook Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Like This

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of each breast evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning lays the foundation for the flavors to come.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and chicken broth until combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your baking dish. Pour the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated well. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm. Pour the sauce from the baking dish into a small saucepan. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1-2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Return the chicken to the sauce or plate and spoon the thickened honey mustard sauce over top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired for a burst of color and freshness. Serve alongside your favorite sides and enjoy!

Fit It to Your Goals

• Low-carb option: Skip sugary sides and serve with steamed veggies or cauliflower rice.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a batch ahead and portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners.
• Family-friendly: Mild yet flavorful, kids often love the sweet and tangy sauce.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and mustard are certified gluten-free.
• Quick dinner: Prep and bake all in less than 40 minutes for a weeknight lifesaver.

Pro Perspective

For perfectly cooked chicken breasts that stay juicy, avoid overbaking. Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out, ensuring tender results every time. Also, don’t skip the sauce thickening step—it transforms the juices into a luscious coating that elevates this dish from simple to sensational.

• Use room temperature chicken to promote even cooking.
• Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce for a bright acidic kick.
• Save time by making the sauce while the chicken bakes.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken freezes beautifully. After cooking, allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely. Place in airtight containers or freezer bags, separating portions for convenience. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a pan or oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to keep the sauce silky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to stay even juicier due to their higher fat content. Adjust the baking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

How do I prevent the sauce from burning while baking?

Make sure to pour enough chicken broth in the sauce to keep it moist and baste the chicken halfway through baking if possible. Baking at 375°F is moderate enough to avoid burning, but keep an eye if your oven runs hot.

What can I serve with this chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, serve with creamy mashed cauliflower or quinoa.

Is Dijon mustard necessary, or can I substitute it?

Dijon mustard provides a smooth, tangy flavor that’s key to this recipe. If you don’t have Dijon, you can try yellow mustard for a milder taste, but the profile will be slightly different. Spicy brown mustard is another option if you like a bit more heat.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Try the Maple Mustard Chicken With Pickled Peaches for a sweet-savory twist with seasonal fruit.
• For a creamy, herby alternative, check out the Parmesan Ranch Chicken recipe.
• Need something fast and hands-off? The Instant Pot Chicken Drumsticks recipe is a great complement to your chicken repertoire.

The Takeaway

This Easy Baked Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is a shining example of how few ingredients can deliver maximum flavor. It’s approachable for cooks of all skill levels and lends itself well to adaptations and meal prepping. The balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a sauce that beautifully complements tender chicken breasts, making it a versatile dish perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, with minimal cleanup and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bake a dinner that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing!

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