Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs
If you’ve ever found yourself in a dinner rut, staring blankly into your fridge and wondering what on earth to make—something healthy yet flavorful, quick yet satisfying—you need this Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs recipe in your life.
Picture this: tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a zesty, herby Dijon mustard blend that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a weeknight dinner savior that’s not only a breeze to whip up but also a surefire way to impress your family and dinner guests. And here’s a little secret: this dish makes any dinner feel like a gourmet experience without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your Dijon mustard and let’s turn those plain chicken breasts into something extraordinary!
Key Ingredients in Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs
The star here is Dijon mustard, known for its tangy yet slightly sweet flavor that adds a depth of taste to the chicken. Pair that with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary—herbs that bring a fragrant and earthy touch to the dish. The olive oil ensures everything blends smoothly while helping to keep the chicken moist and tender.
How to Make Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs
Making this dish couldn’t be simpler! Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare the mustard mixture: In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, and rosemary).
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper over your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish.
- Coat the chicken: Spread the mustard herb mixture evenly over each breast.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest: Let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing into that juicy, flavorful perfection.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to your mustard mixture for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mustard mixture before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Lemon Zest: Adding some lemon zest to the mustard mixture can give it an extra zing and brighten up the flavors.
Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
- A hearty grain such as quinoa or brown rice.
- A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
For a comforting meal, serve alongside Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes or a Fresh Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
✖ Overbaking: Chicken breasts can dry out if cooked too long. Make sure to remove them from the oven once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
✖ Not Using Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs make a huge difference in flavor—so go fresh if you can.
✖ Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier when you cut into it.
Tips and Tricks
✔ Even Thickness: Pound your chicken breasts to a uniform thickness for even cooking.
✔ Marinate Longer: If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the mustard mixture for 30 minutes before baking for an even more intense flavor.
✔ Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F, rather than relying solely on cook time.
Final Thoughts
Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs is a winner for anyone seeking a delicious, healthy, and quick meal. It’s versatile enough that you can play around with your favorite herbs and even add different spices to make it your own. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Did you make this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any variations you tried! If you loved it, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for weekly recipe ideas straight to your inbox.
Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the mustard herb mixture evenly over each breast.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Alternative Proteins: Prefer chicken thighs? Swap them in! Just adjust the cooking time until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Baking Dish: A quality baking dish makes a huge difference. Check out this well-reviewed baking dish on Amazon.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time. This instant-read meat thermometer is highly recommended.
- Olive Oil Sprayer: For evenly distributing olive oil. This one is a kitchen favorite ➡ check it out on Amazon.
FAQ’s Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free—just make sure that your Dijon mustard doesn’t contain any gluten additives.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs if you don’t have fresh ones on hand. Use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh (since dried herbs are more concentrated).
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mustard herb mixture and coat the chicken breasts a few hours before baking. Keep them refrigerated until ready to cook.
What other herbs can I use besides parsley, thyme, and rosemary?
Feel free to experiment with oregano, basil, or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Can I cook chicken breasts without a baking dish?
Yes! You can bake the chicken on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you don’t have a baking dish available.
If you loved the savory, herbaceous flavors of our Baked Chicken Breasts with Dijon Mustard and Herbs, you’ll adore the sweet and sticky delight of our Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs.
