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Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe

Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe

4.7 from 14 reviews

This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts or thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and garlic, with an optional hint of cayenne pepper for heat. Easy to prepare and perfect for grilling or baking, this dish offers a delicious balance of sweet and tangy flavors that pair well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile main course for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 pound chicken breast or chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons dijon mustard (grainy preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • Freshly ground salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine honey, dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, cayenne pepper (if using), and freshly ground salt and black pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
  2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the bowl and stir thoroughly to coat each piece with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  3. Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to 400°F (204°C). Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill and close the lid to retain heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on one side without flipping to develop grill marks and retain juiciness. After this time, open the lid and carefully flip the chicken using tongs. Grill for another 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Rest the grilled chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a clean plate or cutting board. Cover loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender chicken.
  5. Alternative baking method: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to prevent the acid in the mustard from breaking down the meat too much.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Grilling with the lid closed helps cook the chicken evenly and faster.
  • Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain its moisture and juiciness.
  • This recipe works well with both chicken breasts and thighs; adjust cooking time slightly depending on thickness.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables, salad, or rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey Mustard Chicken, grilled chicken, baked chicken, easy chicken recipe, sweet and tangy chicken, healthy chicken dinner