Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe to prepare for dinner? Look no further than honey mustard baked chicken breast! This mouth-watering dish is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this tasty recipe.
Ingredients
To make honey mustard baked chicken breast, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these instructions to make honey mustard baked chicken breast:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Step 2: Prepare the chicken
Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish.
Step 3: Make the honey mustard sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Coat the chicken
Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are coated evenly.
Step 5: Bake the chicken
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a salad.
Tips
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making honey mustard baked chicken breast:
- Make sure to coat the chicken breasts evenly with the honey mustard sauce to ensure that the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
- If you want a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Health Benefits
Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also contains vitamins and minerals that are important for maintaining good health, such as vitamin B6 and phosphorus. Honey is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Mustard is a low-calorie condiment that is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium.
Variations
One of the great things about this recipe is that it can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the honey mustard sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the honey mustard sauce for a cheesy twist.
- Use different types of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy brown, to change up the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Honey mustard baked chicken breast is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or sweet potatoes
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash
- Rice or quinoa
- Salad, such as spinach or arugula with a light vinaigrette
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I substitute yellow mustard for Dijon mustard?
- Yes, you can use yellow mustard, but it will give the dish a slightly different flavor.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
- Yes, you can make the honey mustard sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to make the chicken, simply pour the sauce over the chicken breasts and bake as directed.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use honey mustard dressing instead of making my own sauce?
- Yes, you can use store-bought honey mustard dressing instead of making your own sauce for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and consistency of the dish may be slightly different than if you were to make your own sauce. Also, be sure to check the ingredients of the dressing to make sure it doesn’t contain any additional ingredients that you may not want in your dish.
Conclusion
Honey mustard baked chicken breast is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a flavorful and healthy meal that the whole family will love. So why not give this recipe a try and see how easy and delicious it can be?