Name: Baked Honey Mustard Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Baked
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon chicken seasoning blend (or to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 4 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional, for added flavor); ¼ cup honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard; ½ teaspoon white vinegar; ⅛ teaspoon paprika

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings together the classic flavors of honey and mustard to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. The combination of different mustards adds depth, while the honey provides a natural sweetness. It’s simple to prepare, yet the result is a meal that feels special and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon chicken seasoning blend, or to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
¼ cup honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard
½ teaspoon white vinegar
⅛ teaspoon paprika
4 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional but recommended)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
Heat 1½ tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken breasts all over with the chicken seasoning blend
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until browned.
In the meantime, prepare the honey mustard sauce by combining the remaining ½ tablespoon olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, wholegrain mustard, white vinegar, and paprika in a small mixing bowl. Whisk until well incorporated.
Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish.
Pour the prepared honey mustard sauce over the chicken breasts, turning the chicken over to cover each breast entirely.
Arrange the sprigs of rosemary between the chicken breasts.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 35 minutes, totaling around 45 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Kick: I sometimes add a touch of hot sauce to the honey mustard marinade for an extra kick.
Herb Swap: If I don’t have fresh rosemary, I use dried rosemary or substitute with thyme or oregano, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Mustard Mix: While the recipe calls for three types of mustard, I occasionally use just one or two, depending on what I have on hand.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, I place the chicken in a pan over medium-low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, I reheat it in the microwave, covering it to retain moisture. For longer storage, I freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 to 3 months. I thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the breasts. I adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

What can I serve with this dish?

I often serve this chicken with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prepare the honey mustard sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I whisk it before using to recombine any separated ingredients.

Is it necessary to brown the chicken before baking?

While not strictly necessary, browning the chicken adds extra flavor and helps seal in the juices. If I’m short on time, I skip this step and proceed directly to baking.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy products.

Conclusion

This Baked Honey Mustard Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of honey and the tanginess of mustard to create a satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to suit different tastes, and pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a reliable choice that I enjoy making time and again.