This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty way to enjoy dinner! Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce that makes every bite delicious.
I love how simple this recipe is! Just mix the sauce, coat the chicken, and pop it in the oven. Plus, it smells amazing while it bakes. Who doesn’t love a stress-free dinner? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work too, but reduce the cooking time slightly as they cook faster.
Dijon Mustard: This is key for the tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, you can use yellow mustard, though the flavor will be milder. For a twist, try whole grain mustard for some texture!
Honey: It adds sweetness to balance the mustard. If you want a lower sugar option, maple syrup or agave nectar can substitute honey effectively.
Thyme: This herb brings a nice earthy flavor. If you can’t find fresh thyme, dried thyme works well too. For a different taste, dried oregano or rosemary can be good replacements.
Smoked Paprika: This optional ingredient adds a lovely smoky depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder could work, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How Do You Ensure Juicy Chicken with Crispy Skin?
To get juicy chicken with crispy skin, start by drying the chicken thighs thoroughly before seasoning. Moisture creates steam, which prevents browning.
- When seasoning, don’t rush! Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
- Brush the honey Dijon sauce over the chicken and try to get some under the skin for more flavor and moisture.
- Baking at 400°F (200°C) allows the skin to crisp up nicely. Keep an eye on it toward the end and broil for a few minutes for that perfect brown crust!
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to cook in the oven. Including resting time, you should have a tasty dinner ready in about an hour. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important for achieving a nice crispy skin. After drying, season both sides generously with salt and pepper for added flavor.
3. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and apple cider vinegar. This sauce will bring a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken!
4. Arrange the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish or an ovenproof skillet with the skin side facing up. This position allows the skin to crisp up as it bakes.
5. Coat with Sauce
Generously brush the honey Dijon sauce over each chicken thigh. Try to get some of the sauce under the skin if you can. This will infuse the chicken with even more flavor as it cooks.
6. Bake the Chicken
Put the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the skin to turn golden and caramelized.
7. Optional Broil for Crispiness
If you want the skin even crispier, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Rest and Garnish
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy
Enjoy your delicious honey Dijon chicken with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. It’s a meal that’s sure to please!
FAQ for Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work! However, reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes since they cook faster. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, yellow mustard is a suitable alternative, though the flavor will be milder. You can also use whole grain mustard for added texture and a different taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through, ensuring not to overcook it to maintain its juiciness.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add seasoned vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or broccoli to the baking dish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the veggies cook through alongside the chicken.
