This Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is a tasty one-pan meal that’s sure to brighten your dinner table. Juicy chicken thighs are mixed with a sweet and tangy honey Dijon sauce.
The best part? It practically cooks itself while you relax or whip up a quick side! I love serving this dish with roasted veggies—they’re the perfect match for that delicious sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs work best for this recipe since they stay juicy while baking. You can use breasts if you prefer, but they may dry out quicker.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon adds a nice tang, but if you’re out, whole grain mustard or yellow mustard can work too. Each will give a different flavor profile, so choose based on what you have.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness to balance the tang. If you need alternatives, try maple syrup or agave syrup. Keep in mind they have different flavors but will still be delicious.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for robust flavor, but garlic powder can be a handy substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove.
Vegetables: Baby potatoes, carrots, and green beans add color and nutrition. Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference or what’s in season.
How Do I Get the Chicken Skin Extra Crispy?
Getting the chicken skin to crisp up nicely can be a game-changer! Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect crunch:
- Start with dry chicken: Pat the thighs dry before seasoning. This allows the skin to crisp up rather than steam.
- Broil at the end: After baking, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye; it can go from golden to burnt quickly!
- Use a rack: If you have one, place the chicken on a rack over the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, making the skin crisper.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the chicken some space, so it can roast rather than steam.
Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Vegetables for roasting (optional, e.g., baby potatoes, carrots, green beans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 35-40 minutes of baking. If you love to relax while dinner cooks, this recipe is perfect for you! Just let the chicken and any veggies roast in the oven while you unwind.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take out your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin get crispy! Once dry, sprinkle salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken.
3. Make the Honey Dijon Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and dried herbs if you’re using them. This tasty sauce will coat the chicken, giving it a flavorful kick!
4. Assemble Chicken in the Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. If you decided to add vegetables, now’s the time to arrange them around the chicken for easy roasting.
5. Coat with Sauce:
Grab that honey Dijon sauce you just made and brush or spoon it over the chicken thighs, making sure they are nicely covered. Don’t forget to coat the veggies if you’re using them!
6. Bake:
Pop your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and slightly caramelized. Yum!
7. Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you want to take it to the next level, you can switch your oven to broil for about 2-3 minutes at the end. Just make sure to keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken sit for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the honey Dijon chicken hot, along with your favorite sides like rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite of this tasty and simple dinner!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy baked honey Dijon chicken dinner!
FAQ for Easy Baked Honey Dijon Chicken Dinner
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs?
Yes, you can use skinless thighs, but they may not be as juicy. To ensure they stay moist, consider marinating them in the honey Dijon sauce for a few hours before baking and keep an eye on cooking time, as they may cook faster.
What Vegetables Pair Well with This Dish?
This recipe is quite versatile! Baby potatoes, carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts all work wonderfully. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand or what’s in season!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and enjoy!
