Healthy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken

Name: Healthy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup whole grain mustard; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Vital Meals Studio

I love cooking with flavors that elevate simple ingredients, and this Healthy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken does just that! The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a beautiful glaze that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender. It's a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a fancy dinner. Trust me, once you try this flavorful dish, it will become a staple on your dinner table!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T23:37:35.258Z

When I first created this Healthy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken, I was looking for a dish that would excite the palate without loading up on calories. After several attempts at the ideal glaze, I discovered that using a mix of whole grain mustard and raw honey creates the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. This glaze not only brings out the flavors in the chicken but also caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step infuses the flavors deeply into the meat. To complement this, I serve it with a side of roasted veggies that add a pop of color and nutrition to the plate. It's truly a winner!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously balanced flavors of honey and mustard
Healthy and low in calories, perfect for meal prep
Easy to make with just a few ingredients

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step in achieving a depth of flavor. By allowing the chicken to soak in the honey mustard mixture for at least 30 minutes, the sweet and tangy flavors penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicy, flavor-packed dinner. For best results, consider marinating it for several hours or even overnight. The longer you marinate, the more pronounced the flavors will be, allowing you to elevate this dish even further.

If you're short on time, even a 30-minute soak works wonders, but ensure that your marinade ingredients are evenly distributed. When storing the chicken in a marinade, use a resealable bag for easy access and to minimize cleanup. This method allows the marinade to cover the chicken evenly and makes it easier to flip occasionally, redistributing the flavors during the marination process.

Serving Suggestions

This Healthy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a light meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, which complement the sweetness of the glaze. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider serving it over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to soak up the extra sauce. Adding a fresh side salad can also cut through the richness of the chicken, providing a refreshing element to your plate.

Leftovers can be just as delightful! Slice the chicken and serve it cold over a salad for lunch the next day, or mix it into a grain bowl with your favorite toppings. The sweet and tangy flavor of the honey mustard holds up well, making it a versatile ingredient for meal prepping or incorporating into various dishes throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this healthy dish:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup whole grain mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything, let's move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Healthy Honey Mustard Baked Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the chicken, and ensure it's well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your deliciously baked chicken!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic touch.

Ingredient Insights

Using whole grain mustard adds both flavor and texture to this dish. It provides a robust tang that balances the sweetness of the honey perfectly. If you don't have whole grain mustard on hand, Dijon mustard is a great alternative, though it will lend a smoother texture and slightly sharper flavor. If you prefer a milder sauce, consider using yellow mustard, but keep in mind this will change the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Honey not only sweetens the glaze but also enhances browning, contributing to a beautifully caramelized exterior. If you're looking for a lower-glycemic option, you can substitute the honey with agave syrup or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity as these alternatives can vary in sweetness.

Troubleshooting and Tips

If you find the chicken has dried out after baking, it may have been cooked for too long. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer; chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (75°C). For optimal juiciness, allow the chicken to rest for five minutes after baking. This step helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, enhancing tenderness upon slicing.

If the glaze is not as glossy as you'd like it, consider broiling the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, as broilers can be intense. This will add a beautiful caramelized finish to your dish, making it more visually appealing and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will remain juicy!

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken before baking for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ What sides go well with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad pair beautifully with this dish.