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Honey Dijon Garlic Chicken Breasts

Honey Dijon Garlic Chicken Breasts

Honey Dijon Garlic Chicken Breasts is a quick and easy recipe that features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful sauce blending the natural sweetness of honey, the tangy brightness of Dijon mustard, and the robust aroma of fresh garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, this dish offers a healthy, lean protein option with minimal ingredients and versatile serving suggestions.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Main Ingredients

  • 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for searing)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture will become the flavorful coating that tenderizes and seasons the chicken.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to a few hours in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor infusion.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear each breast for about 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown.
  4. Cook Through and Add Sauce: Flip the chicken breasts, reduce heat to medium-low, then pour the reserved marinade into the pan. Cover and let the chicken cook for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Serve and Garnish: Remove chicken from heat and let it rest a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired to add color and an herbal note.

Notes

  • Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and juiciness.
  • Don’t Skip Resting: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to keep it tender and retain juices.
  • Reserve Marinade Safely: Cook the marinade in the skillet to eliminate any raw chicken bacteria before serving.
  • Fresh Garlic is Key: Use fresh minced garlic instead of powder to get the best flavor and aroma.
  • Watch the Heat: Cooking on medium-low when simmering sauce prevents burning and keeps the honey from caramelizing too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey chicken, Dijon mustard chicken, garlic chicken, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken breast recipe, gluten free chicken