Easy Baked Honey Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, this Easy Baked Honey Chicken Recipe is perfect for you. With minimal prep time and ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, this dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy flavors. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Best of all, the whole family will love it!

Let’s dive into the details of how you can whip up this easy, yet flavor-packed, dish.

Ingredients for Honey Chicken

To make this dish, you’ll need simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a bold, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Honey Sauce:

• ¼ cup mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish (9×13 works best)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Tongs (for handling chicken)
• Pastry brush (optional, for coating the chicken)

How to Make Easy Baked Honey Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A well-preheated oven ensures the chicken bakes evenly and stays juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the oven is heating, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Make the Honey Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon mustard, and 2 tablespoons honey. This forms the marinade base that will coat the chicken. Brush or rub this marinade over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken breasts in a greased baking dish in a single layer. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. For thinner cuts, aim closer to 25 minutes, while thicker pieces may need a full 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Honey Sauce

While the chicken bakes, mix together the sauce ingredients in a bowl. Combine ¼ cup mustard, ¼ cup honey, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Whisk until smooth and season with salt and pepper to taste. The sauce should be both sweet and tangy with a creamy texture.

Step 6: Finish the Chicken

After the chicken has baked for 20-25 minutes, remove it from the oven. Brush the prepared Honey Sauce over the chicken and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown, remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid drying out the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it hits 165°F without going over.
• Skipping the Resting Time: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting into it. This helps retain the juices, keeping your chicken moist and tender.
• Not Seasoning the Chicken Properly: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of the honey and mustard.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

While this Easy Baked Honey Chicken is delicious as is, here are some variations you can try:

• Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time to 35-40 minutes.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free recipe, ensure the mustard you use is certified gluten-free.
• Herbal Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This flavorful Honey Chicken pairs perfectly with simple, wholesome sides. Here are some great options:

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a balanced meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a winning side with baked chicken.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store them for later:

• Refrigerating: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re short on time. To prevent drying out, add a little extra sauce on top before reheating.

Honey Chicken Recipe FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I use honey mustard instead of making my own sauce?
Yes, but making the sauce from scratch allows you to control the sweetness and tanginess to your preference.

Presentation and Plating Ideas

For a visually appealing dish, serve the chicken on a white platter with extra sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges on the side. Pair with colorful roasted vegetables or a side salad to create a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal.

Honey Chicken Recipe Tips

• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If time allows, let the chicken marinate in the honeymixture for 30 minutes to an hour before baking.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Substitute fresh garlic for garlic powder in both the marinade and sauce for a more intense, garlicky flavor.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, consider doubling the Honey Sauce recipe. It also works great as a salad dressing or dip for veggies.

conclusion

This Easy Baked Honey Chicken Recipe is an ideal meal for busy families or anyone looking for a quick yet flavorful dinner option. With its sweet and tangy sauce, juicy chicken, and minimal prep time, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.

Try this recipe tonight and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share it with friends and subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes.

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