This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, with a hint of garlic and herbs for depth. The chicken is first seared to golden perfection, locking in its juices, then oven-baked with a rich honey mustard sauce that caramelizes beautifully. The end result is a dish that is juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious.
Pair this savory glazed chicken with roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the depth of flavor makes it a staple recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, olive oil, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits.
- Stir in the honey mustard sauce and bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over each piece.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven, stir in butter and lemon juice, and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Origins and Popularity
Honey Mustard Chicken is a beloved dish that balances the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard, creating a rich and flavorful glaze. This combination of ingredients has been popular in various cuisines, especially in American and European cooking, where honey mustard sauce is commonly used as a marinade, dressing, or dipping sauce. The dish itself is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a go-to option for home cooks who want a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home in under 40 minutes.
- Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe uses lean chicken breast, which is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy meal choice.
- Great for Meal Prep: Honey Mustard Chicken stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping and enjoying throughout the week.
- Versatile Pairing: It can be served with rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad.
Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Chicken
- Use a Mix of Mustards: Combining Dijon and whole grain mustard creates a deeper flavor, balancing the tanginess with texture.
- Sear for Maximum Flavor: Browning the chicken before baking locks in the juices and enhances the dish’s caramelization.
- Add a Touch of Citrus: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish and balances the sweetness.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to ensure it remains juicy.
- Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley or thyme adds a final touch of color and enhances the presentation.
Serving Suggestions
- With Vegetables: Serve with roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a nutritious side.
- Over Rice or Quinoa: The honey mustard sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, quinoa, or even couscous.
- With a Fresh Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
- In a Sandwich or Wrap: Slice the chicken and serve in a sandwich or wrap with lettuce and tomatoes for a tasty lunch option.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked Honey Mustard Chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Variations of Honey Mustard Chicken
- Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy texture.
- Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken: Instead of baking, grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side for a smoky flavor.
- Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for bone-in, skin-on thighs for a richer and juicier dish.
This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a household favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether served as a hearty main dish or in a lighter meal, it’s sure to be a hit!
How to Make the Best Honey Mustard Chicken
- Choose the Right Mustard: Dijon mustard provides a smooth, tangy depth, while whole grain mustard adds texture and boldness.
- Sear for Maximum Flavor: Pan-searing the chicken before baking creates a caramelized crust, sealing in the juices.
- Use High-Quality Honey: A good-quality honey enhances the natural sweetness and balances the acidity of the mustard.
- Let the Chicken Rest: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Garnish for Freshness: Adding fresh parsley or thyme enhances the final presentation and provides a touch of freshness.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Honey Mustard Chicken is highly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Grains: Serve it with fluffy jasmine rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Vegetables: Roasted carrots, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or steamed green beans make great accompaniments.
- Salads: A crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread or dinner rolls is perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.
- Pasta: Toss the sauce with pasta or serve the chicken over linguine for a hearty meal.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked Honey Mustard Chicken for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy exterior.
- Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken: Instead of baking, grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side to achieve a smoky, charred flavor.
- Slow Cooker Honey Mustard Chicken: Cook in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours for a tender, fall-apart texture.
- Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Greek yogurt to create a richer, creamier sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs work well and provide a juicier texture. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the honey mustard sauce and marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours before cooking for even more flavor.
Q: What type of mustard should I use?
A: Dijon mustard is best for a smooth, balanced tang, while whole grain mustard adds a slightly sharper and more textured bite. You can also use yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free mustard and broth, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! Simply omit the butter or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Honey Mustard Chicken is a classic dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing it for meal prep, its sweet, tangy, and savory flavors will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides and make it a staple in your kitchen!
Conclusion
Honey Mustard Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, this juicy and flavorful chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Simple yet satisfying, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Try it today and enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!