Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts

Name: Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Meals Collection

I absolutely love cooking chicken breasts, and this Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts recipe has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delightful glaze that perfectly complements the juicy chicken. It’s an easy dish to prepare on a busy weeknight, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. I’m excited to share this recipe with you, as it always brings smiles to my family’s faces and is a guaranteed hit every time I serve it.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:54:36.526Z

When I first tried making Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breasts, I was amazed at how simple yet flavorful it turned out. The recipe came together effortlessly, and as the chicken baked, the smell filled my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. I remember thinking that this dish would be perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.

One key to making this chicken tender and flavorful is to marinate it for at least 30 minutes before baking. The honey mustard mixture works its magic, infusing the chicken with taste and keeping it moist. Using fresh ingredients elevates the dish, so I always prefer to use high-quality honey and mustard for the best results.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delicious blend of sweet and tangy flavors
Quick and easy preparation with minimal cleanup
Versatile dish that pairs well with various sides

The Role of Marinade

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that enhances flavor and tenderness. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard not only infuses the chicken with sweetness and tang, but the acidity from the mustard also helps to break down the proteins. This results in a juicier, more flavorful chicken breast. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for 2-4 hours will yield even better results.

When marinating, ensure the chicken is fully coated in the mixture. Using a resealable plastic bag can be beneficial here, as it allows the marinade to evenly envelop the chicken. If you find the marinade is too thick, a dash of vinegar or water can help to thin it out, making it easier to coat the chicken. Remember to reserve a bit of the marinade before applying it to the chicken; it can be used later to baste or drizzle over the cooked dish.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Getting the chicken perfectly baked is vital for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the chicken inside; this allows for even cooking. As the chicken bakes, the sugars in the honey will caramelize, creating a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish. Keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of baking; if it starts to brown too much, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked while remaining juicy—not dry or overcooked. If you’re cooking larger breasts or prefer to serve the chicken with a bit of sauce, consider baking it covered for the first 20 minutes to help retain moisture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the Chicken

Transfer the marinated chicken breasts to a baking dish, pouring any remaining marinade over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, feel free to garnish the baked chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Honey Mustard Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a fresh contrast, serve it alongside a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli. The sweetness of the chicken also complements starchy sides such as garlic mashed potatoes or quinoa, making for a balanced meal. I personally enjoy adding a drizzle of leftover honey mustard sauce on top for an extra boost of flavor.

If you're preparing this dish for a gathering, consider slicing the chicken and arranging it on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows guests to add a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness, elevating every bite. Don’t forget to have some crusty bread on hand to mop up any delicious sauce left on the plate!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is fantastic for meal prep. After cooking, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making leftovers even tastier. When reheating, aim to do so gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to prevent drying out the chicken.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Alternatively, uncooked chicken breasts can be frozen in the marinade; just be sure to allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This way, you can have a delicious meal ready to go without the last-minute rush!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for some heat.

→ Can I prepare the marinade the night before?

Absolutely! Preparing the marinade ahead of time and marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

This dish goes great with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.