Honey Mustard Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the perfect balance of tangy mustard and sweet honey.
This dish is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even special occasions.
The chicken is tender and juicy, while the sauce adds a golden, glossy finish that enhances both its flavor and appearance.
Whether baked, grilled, or pan-fried, Honey Mustard Chicken never fails to impress with its rich and satisfying taste.
Once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular in your recipe rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to fall in love with Honey Mustard Chicken, but the standout features are its irresistible flavor combination and simplicity.
The sauce itself is a magical mixture of sweet honey and sharp mustard, creating a harmony that complements the natural juiciness of the chicken.
This recipe also allows for easy customization, enabling you to tweak the sweetness or spice levels according to your preferences.
Aside from the flavor, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few key ingredients and a quick cooking method, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
It’s a perfect choice for weeknight dinners when you want something that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Plus, it’s great for meal prep, as the leftovers stay flavorful and delicious for days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Honey Mustard Chicken, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts or thighs – The main star of the dish. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can also use thighs for a juicier option.
- Honey – Adds sweetness and helps create that gorgeous glaze.
- Dijon mustard – Brings a tangy flavor that balances the honey’s sweetness.
- Olive oil – For cooking the chicken and creating a nice, crisp exterior.
- Garlic – Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce with a savory depth.
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds a little extra tang and helps balance the flavors.
- Salt and pepper – To season the chicken and sauce to taste.
Optional ingredients to elevate your dish:
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley) – For added fragrance and flavor.
- Spices (paprika, chili flakes, or cayenne) – For a touch of heat, if you like your honey mustard with a little kick.
This combination of ingredients ensures a well-rounded, flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and delicious to enjoy!
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken
Making Honey Mustard Chicken is as simple as combining a few key ingredients and letting the flavors shine. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish:
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken. For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, make sure they are of even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. You can gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet to achieve this, or simply slice thicker breasts in half horizontally.
Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning helps bring out the natural flavor of the chicken before adding the honey mustard sauce.
Step 2 – Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. The result should be a smooth, slightly tangy sauce with a hint of sweetness. If you like your sauce to have a bit more kick, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the mix. Once combined, set the sauce aside, but don’t use it yet—this will be brushed on the chicken during cooking.
Step 3 – Cooking the Chicken
You can cook the chicken in a variety of ways: baking, grilling, or pan-frying. If baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat if pan-frying. For either method, cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
If you’re baking, place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the prepared honey mustard sauce and return it to the oven to allow the glaze to set and caramelize.
Step 4 – Glazing the Chicken
After cooking the chicken, brush it with more of the honey mustard sauce for an extra layer of flavor. If you prefer a thick, sticky glaze, you can even spoon the sauce over the chicken in the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to cook down slightly and become more intense.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful.
How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken
Honey Mustard Chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas for how to enjoy this delicious dish:
With Vegetables
Serve your Honey Mustard Chicken alongside roasted or sautéed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts. The slightly bitter taste of roasted vegetables complements the sweetness of the chicken perfectly. For a more wholesome meal, consider pairing it with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or mashed cauliflower.
On a Salad
Honey Mustard Chicken is also great served over a fresh salad. Pair it with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, and add toppings like sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or red onion. A light vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the rich honey mustard sauce.
With Rice or Quinoa
For a more filling meal, serve your Honey Mustard Chicken over rice, quinoa, or couscous. The grains will absorb the sauce, making every bite deliciously flavorful. For added texture, sprinkle some toasted almonds or sesame seeds on top.
As a Sandwich or Wrap
If you’re looking for a casual, handheld option, slice the chicken and place it in a sandwich or wrap. Add lettuce, tomatoes, and a bit of extra mustard or mayo if desired. This makes for a fantastic lunch option that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
No matter how you choose to serve it, Honey Mustard Chicken is sure to be the star of the meal, bringing a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes to your plate.
Tips for Perfect Honey Mustard Chicken
To ensure your Honey Mustard Chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
1. Pound the Chicken Evenly
For uniform cooking, make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and prevents some parts from being overcooked while others are underdone. You can use a meat mallet or simply slice thick breasts in half horizontally.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
3. Glaze During Cooking
For a flavorful, sticky finish, be sure to brush the chicken with honey mustard sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This helps the sauce caramelize and gives the chicken a beautiful golden glaze.
4. Adjust the Sweetness and Tang
If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add more honey; for more tang, increase the amount of Dijon mustard or add a splash more apple cider vinegar. Tasting and adjusting as you go is key to creating the perfect balance.
5. Use Bone-In Chicken for Extra Flavor
While boneless, skinless chicken is a quick and convenient choice, bone-in chicken (like thighs or drumsticks) can add extra flavor and moisture. It will take a bit longer to cook, but the result is well worth it.
Conclusion
Honey Mustard Chicken is an incredibly flavorful dish that combines the best of sweet, tangy, and savory elements.
Whether you bake, grill, or pan-fry it, this recipe is quick to make and versatile enough for any occasion.
The honey mustard sauce adds a glossy, delicious finish that perfectly complements the chicken’s tender texture.
It pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it the perfect dish for a weeknight meal, a special dinner, or meal prep.
With its easy preparation, delicious flavor, and endless serving possibilities, Honey Mustard Chicken is sure to become a new favorite in your cooking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe! They are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, and they pair perfectly with the honey mustard sauce. Just be sure to cook them longer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
2. How can I make the honey mustard sauce spicier?
To add a kick to your sauce, you can mix in a bit of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even some hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference!
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the honey mustard sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using it to ensure it’s well combined.
4. Can I bake the chicken instead of pan-frying it?
Yes, baking is a great option for this recipe. Simply preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, basting it with the sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. How do I store leftover Honey Mustard Chicken?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it when reheating to keep it juicy.
Honey Mustard Chicken
Equipment
- Skillet (1, large) – For pan-frying the chicken.
- Whisk (1) – To mix the honey mustard sauce.
- Meat Mallet (Optional, 1) – To pound chicken breasts to even thickness.
- Baking Sheet (Optional, 1) – For baking the chicken.
- Measuring Spoons (1 set) – For measuring the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups (1 set) – For measuring the sauce ingredients.
Ingredients
- tbsp Honey – 30g
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard – 30g
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar – 15ml
- 2 cloves Garlic minced – 2g
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil – 15ml
- Salt – To taste
- Pepper – To taste
Optional: 1 tsp Paprika or Cayenne Pepper – For a spicier version
Optional: Fresh Herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) – For garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- If needed, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until well combined.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you prefer baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes.
Glaze the Chicken:
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the honey mustard sauce. If you’re baking, brush the sauce onto the chicken when there are about 5 minutes left in the cooking time.
Rest and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for 3-5 minutes. Serve with additional honey mustard sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Customize the Sauce: If you like your sauce to be more tangy, increase the amount of Dijon mustard or add a bit more apple cider vinegar. For a sweeter version, add extra honey.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Bone-In Chicken: You can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of boneless breasts. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (approximately 35-40 minutes if baking).
- Grilling Option: You can also grill the chicken after brushing it with the sauce, adding a smoky flavor to complement the sweetness.
