Honey Baked Chicken is a timeless dish that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the savory depth of mustard and butter. The result is a beautifully caramelized glaze that coats tender, juicy chicken breasts or drumsticks. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves a balance of sweet and savory. The honey butter sauce not only keeps the chicken moist but also creates a glossy finish that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6–8 drumsticks)
- ⅓ cup honey
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard for a milder flavor)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper (optional, for a hint of spice)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- Lemon slices, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a shallow roasting pan. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper. If using garlic or herbs, add them now. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.
🍯 Tip: Warm the honey slightly if it’s too thick to whisk easily.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts or drumsticks in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Pour the honey butter sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
🧈 Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before baking.
Step 4: Bake and Baste
Bake uncovered for 60 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce every 15 minutes. This helps build a rich glaze and keeps the chicken moist. If using drumsticks, flip them halfway through for even browning.
🔥 Optional: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to caramelize the top.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the glaze to set. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh herbs if desired.
🍽 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with garlic mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or buttery noodles
- Pair with roasted vegetables, green beans, or a fresh cucumber salad
- Add a side of cornbread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the sauce
🔄 Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the glaze
- Tropical Twist: Mix in pineapple juice or orange zest
- Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free honey and butter substitutes
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the pan
This Honey Baked Chicken is a flavor-packed favorite that’s easy to customize and guaranteed to impress. Want to turn it into a sheet pan dinner with veggies or a sandwich filling with slaw? I’ve got plenty of riffs to keep your chicken game golden!