Easy Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe

Honey Mustard Chicken is a delicious, sweet, and tangy dish that brings together the rich flavors of honey and mustard, creating a perfectly balanced glaze over tender, juicy chicken. This recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep, as it is simple to make and incredibly flavorful. Whether you bake it, grill it, or cook it on the stovetop, Honey Mustard Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To make this Honey Mustard Chicken recipe, you will need:

Cutting board and sharp knife
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons and cups
Whisk
Baking dish or skillet
Tongs or spatula
Basting brush (optional)

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
½ cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard (optional, for extra texture)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme leaves for garnish)

How to Make Easy Honey Mustard Chicken ?

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard (if using), olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. If they are too thick, pound them slightly to even out the thickness for even cooking.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour half of the honey mustard sauce over it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Baking Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish, pour some extra marinade over the top, and bake for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
Grilling Method: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved honey mustard sauce.
Stovetop Method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, brushing with more sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and drizzle with extra honey mustard sauce.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for some heat.
Creamy Version: Mix in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamier sauce.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or parsley for a more herbaceous flavor.
Crispy Honey Mustard Chicken: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy texture.

Cooking Note

Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Mustard Chicken pairs well with:

Roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes
Steamed or grilled vegetables
Rice or quinoa
A fresh green salad
Garlic bread

Helpful Tips

Use Dijon mustard for a sharper, tangy taste or yellow mustard for a milder flavor.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
If using bone-in, skin-on chicken, adjust the cooking time by adding an extra 5-10 minutes.
Double the sauce recipe and use the extra for drizzling or as a dip!

Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Chicken

Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
Use fresh garlic and thyme for enhanced flavor.
Baste while cooking to add moisture and extra flavor to the chicken.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to lock in juices.

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then cook when ready.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q3: What’s the best mustard for this recipe?

Dijon mustard gives the best balance of tanginess and spice, but you can use yellow mustard for a milder taste.

Q4: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, just use olive oil instead of butter.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken is an easy, delicious, and versatile dish that can be prepared in multiple ways. With its sweet and tangy flavors, it’s a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking, grilling, or pan-frying, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it with your favorite sides, experiment with different variations, and enjoy this flavorful, wholesome meal!

Enjoy your homemade Honey Mustard Chicken! 🍯🍗