Ciao! I’m Matteo Romano, a Tuscan-born chef turned gluten-free kitchen crusader here in the U.S. And today’s recipe, Gluten Free Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts, is one that brings together my Italian roots and my newfound love for simple, wholesome food that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. When the leaves begin to fall and the evenings get cooler, this dish becomes a weeknight staple in our home. Sweet, tangy, and oven-baked to juicy perfection, it hits that cozy note we all crave in autumn.
Back in culinary school, I learned the art of balance, acidity, sweetness, and salt. But after going gluten-free, I had to re-learn how to strike that balance using different textures and flours. Chicken, being naturally gluten-free, became my go-to protein. And this honey mustard version? It’s been a reader favorite thanks to its bold flavor, short prep time, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this is the kind of gluten-free recipe that feels both effortless and comforting.
Gluten Free Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts
Equipment
- baking dish
- mixing bowl
- oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley or rosemary optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and pour the honey mustard marinade over them. Flip to coat evenly.
- Optional: Let chicken marinate for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Bake uncovered for 22–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Spoon sauce over the chicken halfway through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Gluten Free Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts
Simple pantry staples, big flavor payoff
The beauty of this dish is how it uses ingredients you likely already have. The sweet warmth of honey pairs with the tang of mustard, while garlic and a few spices round things out. Here’s what you’ll need for a dinner that’s flavorful but fuss-free:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard (adds texture and depth)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or rosemary
Tip: Pair with a cozy side like Quick Gluten Free Chicken Stir Fry for extra veggies on your plate.
A note on chicken: thin = quick & juicy
If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half or gently pound to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy. This technique also works beautifully in dishes like Gluten Free Chicken Piccata with Capers, where texture is everything.
Instructions: How to Bake Honey Mustard Chicken to Juicy Perfection
Mix, marinate, bake, done!
This recipe truly comes together in minutes, especially if you whisk up the marinade while the oven preheats. Here’s how:
1. Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Make the marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken
Place the chicken in the baking dish and pour the honey mustard marinade on top. Flip the breasts to coat them evenly.
4. Optional marinate
Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes if you have time. It’s not required, but it deepens the flavor.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for 22–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Spoon sauce over the chicken halfway through baking for extra flavor.
6. Rest & serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. The juices redistribute and make the chicken more tender.
Looking for another simple dinner idea? This Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is just as easy and also completely gluten-free.
Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts
How to keep your chicken juicy every time
- Even thickness: Ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
- Resting time: Always let chicken rest after baking, it keeps it moist.
- Don’t overbake: Use a thermometer if needed. 165°F is your magic number.
If you love crispy edges like I do, try broiling the chicken for the last 2 minutes. It gives a golden top without drying out the meat. For another comfort recipe with bold flavors, these BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a fall favorite too.
Best side dishes to serve with this recipe
- Roasted vegetables (like carrots or Brussels sprouts)
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Steamed green beans
- Jasmine or brown rice
- Gluten-free dinner rolls (see my gluten-free bread guide)
Variations and Swaps
Make it dairy-free or more indulgent
This dish is naturally dairy-free, but you can add a few twists:
- Creamy version: Stir in 2 tablespoons of plain Greek-style coconut yogurt into the marinade before baking.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle gluten-free breadcrumbs on top before baking for a slightly crispy finish.
- Make it spicy: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Want something handheld and kid-friendly instead? These Gluten Free Chicken Taquitos are always a hit and just as easy to make.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Meal prep friendly, freezer approved
This recipe isn’t just a weeknight favorite, it’s also great for meal prep.
To store:
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Store the sauce separately if you want to keep the chicken from getting too soft.
To freeze:
Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
To reheat:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
If you’re meal planning, check out this Easy Gluten Free Dinner Recipes collection. It’s packed with fuss-free ideas that taste like comfort in a dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Gluten Free Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts aren’t just flavorful, they’re also:
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
- Packed with protein and easy to pair with any side
- A great alternative to takeout or heavily processed meals
This dish belongs right alongside favorites like Gluten Free Chicken Nuggets, quick, wholesome, and always delicious.
Final Thoughts
When you need a comforting meal that feels homemade but doesn’t take hours, Gluten Free Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts deliver. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a regular in our kitchen and a favorite among readers. Warm, satisfying, and versatile, it’s a dish that makes gluten-free living both easy and full of flavor.