Description

This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe offers a tangy and sweet flavor combination, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. The chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty blend of Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, then baked to juicy perfection. Finished with a drizzle of reserved marinade and fresh parsley, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade

½ cup Dijon mustard
½ cup honey
Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 3 tablespoons)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ – 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

Main Ingredient

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade for serving later. Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish, pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, and massage it gently to ensure the meat is evenly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors infuse.
Preheat the Oven: When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the chicken to bake through evenly while developing a slight caramelization from the honey.
Bake the Chicken: Lightly grease a baking sheet with oil or non-stick spray. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts on the sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) measured with a meat thermometer.
Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the reserved ¼ cup of marinade over the chicken breasts and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

Marinating the chicken longer than 1 hour (up to 4 hours) will deepen the flavor but avoid marinating overnight as the acidity can start to break down the meat texture.
Ensure the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness; 160°F is recommended since the carryover heat will finish cooking the chicken.
You can use bone-in chicken breasts but expect a longer cooking time—about 35-40 minutes.
If you prefer grilling, cook the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until it reaches the proper temperature.
Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference or omit for a milder flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American