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Tender Baked Chicken Breast Recipe with Easy Honey Mustard Glaze

tender baked chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy baked chicken breast recipe featuring a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze that keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170g each)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil or nonstick spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using until smooth and slightly thick but pourable.
  3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with additional salt and pepper.
  4. Place chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish. Brush or spoon the glaze generously over the top of each breast, covering the entire surface.
  5. Bake uncovered for 18-22 minutes, checking at 18 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer is available, cut into the thickest part to ensure no pink remains and juices run clear.
  6. Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes after baking for extra glaze caramelization, watching closely to prevent burning.
  7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving to allow juices to redistribute and glaze to thicken.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before glazing is crucial for glaze adhesion and browning. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Let chicken rest after baking to keep it juicy. Broiling briefly after baking enhances glaze caramelization but watch carefully to prevent burning. Glaze can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken breast, honey mustard glaze, easy chicken recipe, tender chicken, weeknight dinner, quick chicken, healthy chicken