Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe
Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe (Sweet, Tangy & Juicy)
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious dinner that’s bursting with flavor, this Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is a must-try. Juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or summer barbecues, this dish comes together with just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. With the perfect balance of sweet honey, tangy Dijon mustard, and a hint of garlic, this recipe elevates everyday chicken into a restaurant-quality meal. Whether you grill it, bake it, or use it for meal prep, it’s versatile, satisfying, and family-approved especially if you also love indulgent comfort foods like Juicy Fried Chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – Ready in under an hour
- Sweet and tangy flavor – Honey balances Dijon mustard perfectly
- Versatile cooking methods – Grill, bake, or pan-sear
- Juicy chicken – Marinated to lock in flavor and moisture
- Family-friendly – Mildly spiced and highly customizable
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts or thighs – Use what you prefer; thighs stay juicier, breasts cook faster
- Honey – Adds natural sweetness and balances the tang of mustard
- Dijon mustard – Grainy mustard adds texture and bold flavor
- Olive oil – Keeps chicken moist and helps the marinade stick
- Garlic – Freshly minced or grated for aromatic depth
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds a subtle kick of heat
- Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning
Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe
Notes
- 1 lb chicken breast or chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard (grainy mustard recommended)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Preheat your grill to 400°F.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill and close the lid.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the grill, cover with foil, and let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken on it.
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
- Marinate for flavor – The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken
- Prevent burning – Grill over medium heat or cover with foil in the oven
- Use a meat thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken
- Adjust sweetness – Add more or less honey depending on your preference
- Choose the right cut – Thighs stay juicy longer, breasts cook faster
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Fluffy rice or quinoa
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Crisp green salad
- Roasted sweet potatoes or corn on the cob
- Marinade Ahead: Whisk together the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
- Storage: Keep cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or oven to maintain juiciness. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Yes! Chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks all work. Thighs remain juicy longer, while breasts cook faster.
2. How do I prevent the honey mustard sauce from burning?
Grill over medium heat and avoid direct flames. In the oven, cover with foil for the first half of baking.
3. Can I prep the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the marinade up to 2 days ahead or marinate chicken overnight.
4. What sides go well with honey mustard chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad.
5. How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to retain moisture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and juicy. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a summer barbecue. Versatile, easy, and delicious, this honey mustard chicken is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
