Name: Honey Mustard Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs); to taste Kosher salt; to taste freshly ground black pepper; 2 teaspoons olive oil; ¼ cup honey; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard; 3 tablespoons low-sodium chicken broth; 1 clove garlic (finely minced or pressed); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

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There’s something so comforting about the combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard, and that’s why Honey Mustard Chicken has a special place in my heart. I first stumbled upon this dish during a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite. The aroma of chicken sizzling in the skillet, mingled with the delightful scent of honey and mustard, filled the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen. I remember watching my grandmother whip it up effortlessly, her cheerful chatter making the cooking process feel like a warm embrace. Now, whenever I make Honey Mustard Chicken, it takes me back to those joyful moments spent with loved ones, surrounded by laughter and delicious food. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a lively gathering, leaving everyone craving more.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Cast Iron Skillet

Why This Honey Mustard Chicken Stands Out

It’s Incredibly Flavorful

The beauty of Honey Mustard Chicken lies in its perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of the honey complements the tanginess of the mustard, creating a well-rounded sauce that enhances the juicy chicken. Each bite is a delightful explosion of sweet and savory that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

We all lead busy lives, and Honey Mustard Chicken understands that. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknights or those days when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Versatile Dish

Another reason to love Honey Mustard Chicken is its versatility. You can serve it with a variety of side dishes, whether you prefer roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a fresh salad. It’s a dish that can easily adapt to your taste preferences and whatever you have on hand.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who loves meal prepping, this dish is for you! Honey Mustard Chicken stores beautifully in the fridge, and the flavors only intensify as it marinates. You can make a big batch on the weekend, portion it out, and have delicious meals ready to go for the week.

Kid-Friendly Delight

Kids love anything sweet, and the combination of honey and mustard is sure to be a hit with your little ones. It’s a fantastic way to introduce them to new flavors while still keeping it enjoyable. Plus, you can get them involved in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity!

Ingredients Required for Honey Mustard Chicken

When it comes to making Honey Mustard Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Each component adds its own unique touch, creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Here’s a closer look at the key players:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – The star of the dish, ensuring a juicy and tender bite with every piece.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
2 teaspoons olive oil – Perfect for searing the chicken, adding richness to the dish.
¼ cup honey – The sweet component that beautifully balances the tangy mustard.
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that makes the sauce irresistible.
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard – Offers texture and depth to the mustard flavor.
3 tablespoons low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 clove garlic, finely minced or pressed – Introduces a delightful aromatic quality to the dish.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves – Adds an earthy note that complements the other ingredients.

Cooking Method for Honey Mustard Chicken

Cooking Honey Mustard Chicken is a breeze, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is nothing short of heavenly. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to creating this incredible dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly, giving it a beautiful golden hue.
Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor of the chicken and helps achieve a nice sear.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken so that it sears beautifully.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Sear both sides until they turn a lovely golden brown, which should take about 2 to 4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices, ensuring tender chicken every time.
While the chicken is searing, take a medium bowl and whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, chicken broth, garlic, and thyme. This mixture will become the luscious sauce for our Honey Mustard Chicken.
Once the chicken is seared, pour the mustard sauce over the top. Use a pastry brush to spread it evenly, ensuring that every bite will be packed with flavor.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Smaller pieces will cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
To check for doneness, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. This ensures that your chicken is safely cooked and ready to be enjoyed.
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
Finally, serve your Honey Mustard Chicken warm, drizzled with the remaining sauce from the skillet. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps create a nice sear and prevents steaming.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the mustard sauce for a couple of hours or overnight.
When searing the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or broccoli to the skillet during the last 10 minutes of baking for a complete meal.

Change It Up

Cooking is all about creativity and making dishes your own. Here are some fun ways to change up the Honey Mustard Chicken recipe:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to prevent drying out.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze cooked Honey Mustard Chicken. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a lighter option.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a unique twist.

What to Serve Alongside Honey Mustard Chicken

When it comes to serving Honey Mustard Chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: Pair your Honey Mustard Chicken with a medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini. The caramelization from roasting adds a fantastic flavor that complements the chicken.
Fluffy Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice, whether white, brown, or jasmine. The rice soaks up the delicious mustard sauce beautifully.
Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side that balances the richness of the chicken.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort to the table and are perfect for sopping up the tasty sauce.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rolls to enjoy the leftover sauce. It’s a great way to not waste any of that flavorful goodness!
Occasions: This dish is perfect for dinner parties, family gatherings, or even a simple weeknight meal. It’s versatile enough to fit any occasion.

FAQ

Honey Mustard Chicken is a flavorful dish made with tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy sauce made from honey and mustard. It’s a beloved recipe for its delicious taste and ease of preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

To make Honey Mustard Chicken healthier, consider using skinless chicken breasts, reducing the amount of honey used, or using a low-calorie honey substitute. You can also add more vegetables to the dish, either by serving them as sides or incorporating them directly into the skillet.

Yes, Honey Mustard Chicken is an excellent dish for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve, ensuring the chicken is warmed through and the sauce is fresh!

There are so many delicious sides that pair well with Honey Mustard Chicken. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal that everyone will love!

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken is truly a standout dish that brings together the best of sweet and savory flavors in one delightful recipe. It’s not just easy to make but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!