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Honey Mustard Baked Chicken – Healthy Recipes for Dinner

Okay, I have to admit: sometimes the simplest meals turn out to be the absolute best. This honey mustard baked chicken is one of those dishes that sneaks up on you—with its golden, slightly sticky glaze, tender juicy chicken, and that perfect little zing of mustard. I couldn’t wait to share this recipe because it’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests. Plus, it’s healthy without feeling like you’re missing out. The aroma of honey and mustard roasting together in the oven fills your kitchen with the kind of cozy warmth you want to come home to. And trust me, that caramelized crust? It’s a game-changer.

Quick Facts

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 tbsp whole grain mustard (optional, for texture)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How I Make It

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the sauce stick and promotes that lovely caramelized finish. Season each piece with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder on both sides for a subtle smoky flavor.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and olive oil. This sauce has the perfect balance of sweetness and tang to make your taste buds happy!

Step 3:

Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard sauce over them, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Don’t be shy—you want that sauce to cling!

Step 4:

Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Halfway through, spoon some sauce over the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 5:

About 5 minutes before the chicken is done, switch your oven to broil and watch closely as the sauce bubbles and crisps up on top. This step takes the dish from great to mouthwatering with a sticky, caramelized finish.

Step 6:

Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh touch before serving.

Variations & Tips

Swap chicken breasts for thighs—they’re juicier and even more forgiving if you’re a little overzealous with the heat.
Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the sauce for extra tang.
Use gluten-free mustard if needed, ensuring all ingredients match your dietary needs.
Make extra sauce to drizzle on roasted veggies or a side salad.
If you don’t have an oven-safe dish, use a baking sheet lined with foil for easy cleanup.

How I Like to Serve It

This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and garlic or a refreshing green salad with cucumber and avocado. For cozy dinners, I love serving it alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes, letting that sweet, tangy sauce soak in. And if I’m in a hurry, steamed brown rice or quinoa also soak up every last drop of flavor.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
If you want to prep ahead, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for up to 2 hours before baking for deeper flavor.

Closing: This honey mustard baked chicken is one of those recipes that just works every time—simple, delicious, and ready to become a family favorite.