Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
Every time I think of weeknight dinners, the first dish that pops into my mind is Easy Honey Mustard Chicken. This dish brings me back to those busy evenings when I needed to whip up something quick yet satisfying. It was a chilly Tuesday, and I had just come home from a long day. All I wanted was a comforting meal that was not only delicious but also easy to prepare. That’s when I reached for my favorite recipe, and it never disappoints.
As I gathered the ingredients, the sweet and tangy aroma of honey mingling with mustard filled the kitchen. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! The simplicity of this dish makes it an absolute go-to in my household, and I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia every time I serve it. Plus, my family loves it, and that’s all that matters!
The best part? You can have it on the table in no time. With just a few staple ingredients, you’re all set to create a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. I often pair it with fresh broccoli, which complements the honey mustard perfectly and adds a nice crunch. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a family gathering, Easy Honey Mustard Chicken always steals the show.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
5 mins
15 mins
Easy
345 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Wooden Spoon, Skillet, Whisk
The Charm of This Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
It’s Incredibly Easy to Make
Let’s face it: we all have those days when we want something delicious without spending ages in the kitchen. This recipe is a lifesaver because it requires minimal effort with maximum flavor. The clear instructions make it easy for even the most inexperienced cook to succeed. Just a few steps, and you have a delightful dish that tastes like you spent all day preparing it.
Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of honey and mustard in this dish creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and tanginess that’s hard to resist. It’s the kind of flavor that wakes up your taste buds and leaves you wanting more. You can adjust the honey for sweetness or mustard for tang based on your preference, making it versatile enough to cater to different palettes.
Healthy and Nourishing
With the inclusion of lean chicken and vibrant broccoli, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s an excellent source of protein and vitamins, keeping your family energized and satisfied. Eating healthy doesn’t have to be dull when you have recipes like Easy Honey Mustard Chicken to rely on.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you’re someone who loves to meal prep, this dish is fantastic for that. It reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers or lunches throughout the week. You can easily double the recipe to ensure you have enough servings for the week ahead. Just pop it in the microwave, and you’re ready to enjoy a wholesome meal.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, Easy Honey Mustard Chicken fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses without requiring a culinary degree. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a meal that everyone will rave about!
Family Friendly
This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike. The sticky, sweet glaze makes the chicken appealing to little ones who may be picky eaters. You can even involve your kids in the cooking process, making it a fun family activity.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
The ingredients for this dish are simple yet effective, coming together to create a vibrant meal. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect flavor balance. The key players, like honey and mustard, create a glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken, while broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
- ½ cup honey, or to taste
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup dijon mustard, grainy or spicy brown mustard may be substituted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- About 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, I used breast tenders
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon pepper, or to taste
- 2 to 3 cups broccoli florets
The Method for Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
Cooking Easy Honey Mustard Chicken is a breeze! With straightforward steps, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can put this yummy dish together. Each step is designed to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Let’s dive into the process!
- Start by preparing your honey mustard mixture. In a medium bowl, add the honey and both types of mustard. Whisk them together until well combined. You can adjust the flavor according to your taste by adding more honey for sweetness or more mustard for tang. Set this mixture aside for later.
- Next, grab a large skillet and add the olive oil. Heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- It’s time to flip the chicken! Gently turn each piece over and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll want to watch closely, as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken. Aim for it to be about 90% cooked through at this stage.
- Now comes the best part! Drizzle the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken. Using tongs, flip each piece a few times to ensure they are coated evenly. You’ll love the sight of that glossy glaze!
- It’s time to add the broccoli. Toss it into the skillet and stir to combine, ensuring the broccoli is coated with the delicious honey mustard sauce. This step not only adds flavor but also brings a lovely crunch to the dish.
- Cover the skillet and lower the heat to medium-low. Allow the broccoli to steam for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until it becomes crisp-tender. This will also help the chicken finish cooking. Make sure to check that the chicken is cooked through.
- Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Easy Honey Mustard Chicken immediately on a plate, making sure to spoon the extra sauce over each piece of chicken and the broccoli. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t skip the resting: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making it more tender.
- Use a meat thermometer: If you’re unsure about the chicken being cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Customize your veggies: While broccoli pairs perfectly with this dish, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the honey mustard mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and add it to the chicken when you’re ready to cook.
Recipe Tips about Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
To make the most out of your Easy Honey Mustard Chicken, here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience. Whether you want to store leftovers or find the perfect side dishes, these suggestions will enhance your meal.
- Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it on a low setting to avoid drying out the chicken.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and broccoli for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe bags.
- Pairing: Serve Easy Honey Mustard Chicken with a side of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
- Herb it up: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as a garnish before serving for an aromatic touch.
- Adjust flavors to taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients based on your preferences. If you love spice, a dash of hot sauce can add an exciting kick!
- Serve warm: For the best flavor, always serve the chicken warm. It enhances the taste of the honey mustard glaze.
Serving This Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
When it comes to serving Easy Honey Mustard Chicken, the options are as delightful as the dish itself! Here are some serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.
- Accompany with a fresh salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette pairs well, balancing the meal nicely.
- Perfect for lunchboxes: This dish makes for a great lunch option! Pack it in a lunchbox along with some rice or noodles.
- Ideal for family meals: Serve it for dinner during busy weekdays. Its quick preparation means everyone can gather around the table in no time.
- Special occasions: This dish can be a star at gatherings or casual dinner parties. Its delightful flavors impress guests effortlessly.
- Seasonal pairings: In warmer months, consider serving it with seasonal produce like asparagus or a light pasta salad.
- Storage tips: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Easy Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!
Easy Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To a medium bowl, add the honey and mustards and whisk to combine. Taste and check for flavor balance, adding more honey or mustard to taste if necessary; set aside.
- To a large skillet, add the olive oil and chicken, and cook over medium-high heat for about 3 to 5 minutes on the first side. Flip and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes on the second side. Cooking time will vary on the thickness of the chicken. Chicken should be about 90% cooked through.
- Evenly drizzle the honey mustard over the chicken and flip each piece over a few times to ensure both sides are coated evenly.
- Add the broccoli and stir to combine, making sure the broccoli gets coated with honey mustard. Cover and cook over medium-low heat allowing broccoli to steam for about 3 to 5 minutes or until broccoli is crisp-tender and chicken is cooked through. Serve immediately.
