**Simple Baked Honey Dijon Chicken: A Deliciously Easy Dinner Recipe**

If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than Simple Baked Honey Dijon Chicken. This dish combines the tangy bite of Dijon mustard with the sweet richness of honey, creating a perfectly balanced glaze that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Here’s how you can make this deliciously simple recipe in no time.

### Ingredients

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

### Instructions

#### 1. Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the chicken to juicy perfection without drying it out.

#### 2. Prepare the Honey Dijon Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and soy sauce. This combination will create a sweet and tangy glaze that enhances the flavor of the chicken. If you like, you can add dried thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor.

#### 3. Season the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper to taste. This basic seasoning will help to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.

#### 4. Apply the Glaze

Brush a generous amount of the honey Dijon glaze over each chicken breast, making sure they are well-coated. Reserve a little bit of the glaze for basting later if you like a more intense flavor.

#### 5. Bake the Chicken

Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. For a golden, slightly caramelized finish, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

#### 6. Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken before serving, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

### Tips for Success

- **Chicken Thickness* For even cooking, try to use chicken breasts of similar thickness or pound them to an even thickness before baking.
- **Marinating Option* For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey Dijon mixture for 30 minutes before baking.
- **Side Dishes* This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or a simple green salad.

### Why You’ll Love It

Simple Baked Honey Dijon Chicken is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile makes it a hit with both adults and kids alike. Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or a meal for special guests, this dish is sure to impress with minimal fuss.

With this recipe, you’ve got a go-to option for a deliciously effortless dinner that delivers on taste and convenience. Enjoy the delightful combination of honey and Dijon mustard with every bite of this succulent baked chicken!