Description
Honey Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¼ cup honey
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring they are well-coated.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce every 10 minutes. Bake until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh rosemary and thyme. Serve warm with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by gently pounding them to about 1-inch thick. This ensures uniform cooking. When making the sauce, whisk vigorously until the honey and oil are fully emulsified with the other ingredients, creating a smooth, glossy marinade. For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before baking. During baking, use a spoon or baster to collect the juices from the dish corners and pour them over the chicken each time you baste. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F in the thickest part.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or asparagus complement the sweet and savory flavors. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette offers a fresh, peppery contrast. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves creating a simple honey-garlic-herb sauce, coating chicken breasts thoroughly, and baking at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. The key steps are basting every 10 minutes for maximum flavor and juiciness, and checking for an internal temperature of 165°F before garnishing with fresh herbs and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are an excellent choice. You may need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered oven dish at 325°F or in a skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?
Yes, you can use whole-grain mustard for texture or a mild yellow mustard. Avoid strongly flavored mustards like English, as they can overpower the honey and herbs.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Whisk it again before using to recombine the ingredients.
My sauce is burning in the dish. What can I do?
If the sauce is caramelizing too quickly, add a few tablespoons of chicken broth or water to the baking dish. You can also tent the chicken loosely with foil for the final 10 minutes of cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: This leads to dry, tough meat. Always use a meat thermometer.
- Skipping the Basting: Basting is crucial for building flavor and moisture. Don’t skip it.
- Using Cold Honey: If your honey is crystallized, warm it slightly for easier mixing.
- Crowding the Pan: Ensure the chicken breasts are in a single layer with space between for even cooking and sauce coverage.
Conclusion
This Honey Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is a guaranteed winner for any night of the week. It masterfully balances sweet, savory, and herbal notes with minimal effort. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality, juicy, and flavorful main dish that will impress your family and guests. It’s a foundational recipe that is both delicious and adaptable to your personal taste and preferred sides.