Honey Mustard Chicken
I love Sundays, not just because it's a day to unwind, but also because it's my meal prep day. I get to spend some quality time in the kitchen, cooking up a storm, and prepping for the week ahead. One of my favorite dishes to make is Honey Mustard Chicken - it's easy, delicious, and perfect for a week of healthy meals.
I remember the first time I made this recipe, I was a bit skeptical. I mean, honey and mustard aren't exactly the most obvious pairing, but trust me, it works. The sweetness of the honey balances out the tanginess of the mustard, creating a sauce that's both sticky and savory.
What I love most about this recipe is that it's incredibly versatile. You can serve it with just about anything - rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or even as a sandwich filling. And the best part? It tastes even better on day three than it does on day one.
So, if you're looking for a recipe that's easy to make, delicious, and perfect for meal prep, then you're in the right place. In this article, we'll dive into the world of Honey Mustard Chicken, and explore what makes it so special.
From the cooking technique to the ingredients, we'll cover it all. And by the end of it, you'll be a pro at making this dish, and you'll be wondering how you ever lived without it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
- It's perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and reheated throughout the week
- The dish is incredibly versatile, and can be served with a variety of sides and salads
- It's a healthy and delicious option, making it perfect for those looking for a guilt-free meal
- The recipe is easy to customize, and can be made with a variety of different ingredients and seasonings
- It's a crowd-pleaser, and is sure to be a hit with family and friends
Why This Recipe Works
The key to this recipe is the balance of flavors. The honey and mustard work together to create a sauce that's both sweet and tangy, while the chicken provides a nice protein base. But what really makes this dish work is the cooking technique. By cooking the chicken in the oven, we're able to achieve a nice crispy exterior, while keeping the interior juicy and tender.
The other important factor is the resting time. By letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, we're allowing the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
And let's not forget about the sauce. The honey and mustard are a match made in heaven, and by cooking them together, we're able to create a sauce that's both sticky and savory. It's the perfect accompaniment to the chicken, and it's what really makes this dish special.
So, if you're looking for a recipe that's both delicious and easy to make, then Honey Mustard Chicken is the way to go. With its perfect balance of flavors and cooking technique, it's a dish that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to making Honey Mustard Chicken, there are a few key ingredients that you'll need to have on hand. The most important ingredient, of course, is the chicken. You'll want to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. You'll also need some honey, mustard, and olive oil, as well as some salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it's incredibly customizable. You can use different types of mustard, such as Dijon or whole-grain, and you can also add in some chopped herbs or spices to give it a bit more flavor.
- 1 1/2 pounds (680g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinlessYou can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- 1/4 cup (60g) honeyUse a high-quality honey that's pure and free of additives. You can also use a bit less honey if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) Dijon mustardDijon mustard has a bit of a tangy flavor that works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use whole-grain mustard or a combination of the two.
- 2 tablespoons (30g) olive oilUse a good-quality olive oil that's fresh and has a nice flavor. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer.
- 1 teaspoon saltUse a flaky sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor. You can also use a bit less salt if you're watching your sodium intake.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use a bit more pepper if you prefer a bit more heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powderGarlic powder is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a bit of depth and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. You can also use a bit more or less garlic powder to taste.
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a bit of freshness and flavor. You can also use a bit more or less parsley to taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedMinced garlic is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a bit of depth and flavor. You can also use a bit more or less garlic to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprikaPaprika is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a bit of smokiness and flavor. You can also use a bit more or less paprika to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepperCayenne pepper is a great addition to this recipe, as it adds a bit of heat and flavor. You can also use a bit more or less cayenne pepper to taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken
- 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, and set it aside.
- 2In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
- 3Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, and toss to coat with the honey mustard sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- 4Remove the chicken from the marinade, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken.
- 5Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
- 6While the chicken is baking, mix the chopped parsley and minced garlic in a small bowl. You'll use this to garnish the chicken after it's done baking.
- 7Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
- 8Slice the chicken into thin strips, and serve it hot, garnished with the parsley and garlic mixture.
- 9You can serve the chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice. You can also use it in salads, wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
- 10To store the chicken, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
- 11To reheat the chicken, simply microwave it for 30-60 seconds, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through.
Expert Tips
- Make sure to not overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don't overbake the chicken, as this can cause it to dry out.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, as this will help the juices to redistribute.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken, as this will help to prevent it from tearing.
- You can customize the recipe by using different types of mustard or adding in some chopped herbs or spices.
- Make sure to store the chicken in an airtight container, as this will help to keep it fresh for longer.
- You can also use this recipe as a base and add in some other ingredients, such as diced onions or bell peppers, to make it more substantial.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, which can cause it to be tough and dry.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, which can cause the chicken to steam instead of bake.
- Not using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Overbaking the chicken, which can cause it to dry out.
- Not storing the chicken in an airtight container, which can cause it to become stale and dry.
- Not customizing the recipe to your taste, which can cause it to be boring and unflavorful.
Variations and Substitutions
- Use different types of mustard, such as whole-grain or spicy mustard, to give the chicken a unique flavor.
- Add in some chopped herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to give the chicken a fresh and savory flavor.
- Use a bit more or less honey to your taste, depending on how sweet you like your sauce.
- Add in some diced onions or bell peppers to make the recipe more substantial.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more tender and juicy chicken.
- Add in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the chicken a bit of heat.
- Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or quinoa for a healthy and well-rounded meal.
What to Serve With Honey Mustard Chicken
Honey Mustard Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. You can serve it with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice for a healthy and well-rounded meal. You can also use it in salads, wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
Some other ideas for serving Honey Mustard Chicken include serving it with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans, or using it as a topping for a salad or bowl. You can also serve it with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a delicious and healthy meal.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
To store Honey Mustard Chicken, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
When reheating the chicken, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven, and serve it hot.
One of the best things about Honey Mustard Chicken is that it's a great make-ahead meal. You can cook it on the weekend, then store it in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 5 days. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights, when you need a quick and easy meal.
To freeze the chicken, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When you're ready to reheat the chicken, simply remove it from the freezer, and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat it in the microwave or oven, and serve it hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe, depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes, you can use a different type of mustard, such as whole-grain or spicy mustard, to give the chicken a unique flavor.
How long can I store the chicken in the refrigerator?
You can store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Can I reheat the chicken in the microwave?
Yes, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave, but make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
What are some ideas for serving Honey Mustard Chicken?
You can serve Honey Mustard Chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice. You can also use it in salads, wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
Can I customize the recipe to my taste?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by using different types of mustard, adding in some chopped herbs or spices, or using a bit more or less honey to your taste.
Is Honey Mustard Chicken a healthy option?
Yes, Honey Mustard Chicken is a relatively healthy option, as it's made with lean protein, and can be served with a variety of healthy sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa.
Can I make Honey Mustard Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Honey Mustard Chicken ahead of time, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 5 days. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights, when you need a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds (680g) chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup (60g) honey
- 2 tablespoons (30g) Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons (30g) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, and toss to coat with the honey mustard sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
- While the chicken is baking, mix the chopped parsley and minced garlic in a small bowl. You'll use this to garnish the chicken after it's done baking.
- Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and flavorful.
- Slice the chicken into thin strips, and serve it hot, garnished with the parsley and garlic mixture.
- You can serve the chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice. You can also use it in salads, wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
- To store the chicken, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
- To reheat the chicken, simply microwave it for 30-60 seconds, or until it's heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through.