Ah, let me tell you about this delightful dish that I’ve truly fallen head over heels for – Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breast with Lemon! This recipe has made its way into my kitchen not just because it’s so delicious, but also because it brings back some cherished memories. I remember the first time I made it, trying to impress some friends for a dinner party. They were all skeptical about the combination of honey and mustard at first, but when they took that first bite, the expressions on their faces were absolutely priceless!
What I love most about this chicken is how easy it is to whip up while still elevating a simple weeknight dinner to something special. The tender chicken breast is infused with a sweet and tangy marinade, paired with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, and topped off with crunchy breadcrumbs. Honestly, it feels like a warm hug on a plate!
What’s in Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breast with Lemon?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of our dish! I love using chicken breasts for their lean protein and easy-to-cook nature. You can also cut them in half to create pockets for stuffing, which makes this dish even more exciting.
Honey: The natural sweetness of honey plays beautifully against the tangy mustard. It adds that sticky glaze we all love!
Dijon mustard: This mustard variety gives our marinade that zesty kick, and it’s sophisticated enough to impress any guest.
Olive oil: A little drizzle helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a nice richness to the marinade.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that bright, citrusy flavor. Trust me, you don’t want to skip the fresh stuff for this recipe!
Garlic powder: I adore garlic, and it’s a must for savory dishes like this one. It adds depth to the marinade without being overpowering.
Onion powder: A hint of sweetness and flavor enhancement, onion powder is a secret hero in many of my recipes.
Salt and black pepper: Basic, yet fundamental! They bring out all the flavors in our marinade.
Spinach: Not only does it add a pop of color, but spinach is full of nutrients. I often use cooked and chopped spinach for stuffing, making it easy to blend with the cream cheese.
Cream cheese: This contributes a delightful creaminess to our filling, making it super rich and satisfying.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Because who doesn’t love cheese? It melts beautifully and adds an extra layer of gooey goodness.
Breadcrumbs: These are for that irresistible crispy topping we all crave. Of course, feel free to use whole wheat or even homemade breadcrumbs for a healthier twist.
Lemon slices: These bright slices not only make for a beautiful garnish but also add a refreshing element when served!
Is Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breast with Lemon Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish packs a nutritious punch while keeping flavors exciting.
Chicken breasts: They’re an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth.
Spinach: This leafy green is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and magnesium.
Cheese: Sure, it’s rich, but it also provides calcium and protein, which are beneficial for strong bones.
While this dish is quite healthy, just remember to moderate the cream cheese and breadcrumbs if you’re watching your calorie intake. And of course, if you’re following a low-carb diet, consider substituting the breadcrumbs with almond flour or simply skipping them altogether.
What You’ll Need
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup spinach (cooked and chopped)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
– Lemon slices (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 2 people, so it’s perfect for a cozy dinner with a friend or solo!
How to Make Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breast with Lemon?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that kitchen warm and cozy!
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This is your delicious marinade magic!
3. Take your chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Brush both sides generously with the honey mustard marinade, but save a little for later basting.
4. In another bowl, combine the cooked spinach, softened cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese until everything is well mixed. This cheesy goodness is about to make your chicken extraordinary!
5. Carefully slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create pockets, but be gentle—don’t cut all the way through! Stuff each pocket with the creamy spinach mixture.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts back in the baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top and sprinkle breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
7. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Don’t forget to baste with your saved marinade halfway through; it really helps intensify the flavor.
8. Once the chicken is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to keep all those yummy juices inside. Garnish with lemon slices.
9. Serve warm, and enjoy every heavenly bite!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Success!
Now that you’ve crafted this delightful dish, how about pairing it? I love serving it with a side of roasted veggies or a light salad for balance. If you want to elevate it further, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for extra flair and freshness.
If you’re in the mood for variations, why not experiment with different cheese types for stuffing? Feta or goat cheese would add a tangy twist! You can also adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the marinade for a little kick.
So there you have it! I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Breast with Lemon. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Whether you serve it to guests or enjoy it solo with a good book, I promise it’s going to be a hit. Feel free to share your cooking adventures and any tweaks you make—happy cooking!
