Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

From the moment the aroma of sweet honey and tangy mustard started wafting through my kitchen, I knew this Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken was going to be a winner. And boy, was I right! My family, usually a tough crowd to please when it comes to chicken dinners, devoured every last piece. The glaze created this incredible sticky, flavorful coating that was both sweet and savory, making the chicken incredibly moist and juicy. It was so simple to prepare, yet tasted like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, and I’m excited to share it with you so you can experience the same deliciousness in your own home. Trust me, once you try this Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken, it will become a staple in your dinner rotation too!

Ingredients

To create this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need a handful of simple, everyday ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of sweet and savory, achieved through the harmonious blend of honey and mustard. Here’s everything you’ll need to gather to make your own batch of Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken:

• Chicken: 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can use either breasts or thighs depending on your preference. Chicken breasts will be leaner, while thighs will be more flavorful and moist due to their higher fat content. For this recipe, we recommend using chicken breasts for a healthier option that still absorbs the glaze beautifully. Make sure to trim off any excess fat or tendons from the chicken before you begin.
• Honey: ½ cup of honey. The honey is the star of the sweet element in our glaze. We recommend using a good quality honey for the best flavor. You can use clover honey, wildflower honey, or even buckwheat honey for a slightly bolder flavor profile. Avoid using processed honey alternatives as they may not provide the same depth of flavor and natural sweetness.
• Mustard: ½ cup of Dijon mustard. Dijon mustard provides the tangy and savory counterpoint to the honey’s sweetness. Its sharp, pungent flavor cuts through the richness of the honey and adds complexity to the glaze. While Dijon is recommended for its classic flavor, you can experiment with other types of mustard like whole grain mustard for a rustic texture and slightly milder flavor, or even a spicy brown mustard for an extra kick.
• Soy Sauce: ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness to the glaze, balancing the sweet and tangy elements. Using low-sodium soy sauce is crucial to prevent the glaze from becoming overly salty. If you are sensitive to sodium, you can even use tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a slightly richer and less salty flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar adds a touch of acidity that brightens the glaze and tenderizes the chicken. It also helps to balance the sweetness and prevents the glaze from becoming cloying. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice, though apple cider vinegar provides a unique fruity note that complements the honey and mustard particularly well.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is essential for adding a pungent and aromatic layer to the glaze. Minced garlic infuses its flavor throughout the glaze, creating a savory depth that enhances the overall taste of the chicken. For a stronger garlic flavor, you can use 3-4 cloves. Alternatively, if you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic is always preferred for the most vibrant flavor.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil is used for sautéing the chicken and also adds richness to the glaze. You can use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor or regular olive oil for a milder taste. If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with other cooking oils like avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Season the chicken and the glaze generously with salt and pepper to taste. Remember to season in layers, tasting as you go, to ensure the perfect balance of flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for its more aromatic and robust flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or green onions for garnish (optional). Garnishes are not essential to the recipe but can add a beautiful visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor. Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness and color, sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch and visual interest, and sliced green onions offer a mild oniony flavor and vibrant green hue. These garnishes elevate the presentation of your Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken and make it even more appealing.

Instructions

Creating this Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is surprisingly simple and straightforward. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to impress your family and friends. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you prepare this delicious meal:

1. Prepare the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, you might want to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch thick). This ensures even cooking and prevents the edges from drying out before the center is cooked through. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This initial seasoning is crucial for building flavor from the very beginning.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and nicely seared. Searing the chicken creates a flavorful crust that adds depth and texture to the final dish. The chicken doesn’t need to be cooked through at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the glaze. Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Honey Mustard Glaze: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can become bitter. Stir in the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined and the glaze starts to simmer. The combination of heat and whisking will help the glaze emulsify and thicken slightly.
4. Glaze the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet with the honey mustard glaze. Make sure to nestle the chicken into the glaze so that it is evenly coated. Spoon the glaze over the chicken, ensuring every piece is generously covered. Bring the glaze to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it is cooked safely.
5. Thicken the Glaze (Optional): If you prefer a thicker glaze, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the glaze simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-reduce the glaze, as it can become too thick and sticky.
6. Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the thickened glaze. Alternatively, you can plate the chicken and then spoon the glaze generously over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or green onions, if desired, for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy your Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken!

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of our Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

• Servings: This recipe typically serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.
• Calories per Serving (estimated, for 4 servings): Approximately 450-550 calories per serving.
  • Protein: 40-50g
  • Fat: 15-25g (varies depending on chicken cut and oil used)
  • Saturated Fat: 3-5g

Important Note: These nutritional values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. Consider using leaner cuts of chicken and reducing the amount of honey or oil to lower the calorie and fat content if desired.

Preparation Time

One of the great things about this Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken recipe is that it’s relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time involved:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes. This includes time for measuring ingredients, mincing garlic, pounding chicken (if using breasts), and seasoning the chicken.
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes. This includes searing the chicken and simmering it in the honey mustard glaze until cooked through.
• Total Time: Approximately 35-45 minutes from start to finish.

This timeframe makes Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken a fantastic option for busy individuals and families who want a delicious and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even save time by prepping ingredients in advance, such as mincing the garlic and measuring out the honey, mustard, and soy sauce.

How to Serve

Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Classic Sides:
  • Rice: Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa are excellent choices to soak up the delicious honey mustard glaze.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and classic pairing. Consider adding roasted garlic or herbs to your mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes provide a healthy and flavorful side. The sweetness of roasted vegetables complements the honey mustard glaze beautifully.
  • Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Heartier Options:
  • Pasta: Serve over buttered noodles, egg noodles, or penne pasta for a heartier meal.
  • Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad or a German potato salad can be a delightful accompaniment, especially for summer gatherings.
  • Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a perfect side dish during corn season.
• Bread for Sopping:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread, like baguette or sourdough, to soak up every last bit of the flavorful honey mustard glaze.
  • Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls are always a welcome addition to any meal and are perfect for enjoying with the glaze.
• Presentation Ideas:
  • Garnish: Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley, sesame seeds, or sliced green onions for visual appeal.
  • Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle extra honey mustard glaze over the chicken and side dishes for added flavor and moisture.
  • Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for those who like a touch of extra acidity.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Irresistible Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different side dishes to find your favorite combinations and create a meal that perfectly suits your taste and preferences.

Additional Tips for Perfect Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

Want to take your Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken to the next level? Here are five additional tips to ensure your dish is absolutely perfect every time:

1. Marinate for Extra Flavor: For even more intense flavor and tender chicken, consider marinating the chicken in a portion of the honey mustard glaze for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy final product. Reserve some glaze for cooking and glazing later.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches this temperature to prevent overcooking. The residual heat will continue to cook the chicken slightly as it rests.
3. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess to Taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to sweetness and tanginess. Taste the honey mustard glaze before adding the chicken and adjust the honey and Dijon mustard to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a bit more honey. If you prefer a tangier glaze, add a bit more Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar.
4. Broil for a Caramelized Finish: For a beautifully caramelized and slightly crispy glaze, once the chicken is cooked through and glazed in the skillet, you can transfer the skillet (if oven-safe) or the chicken to a baking sheet and broil it for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Broiling adds a lovely depth of flavor and visual appeal to the chicken.
5. Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final flavor of the dish. Use good quality honey, Dijon mustard, and fresh garlic for the best results. Opt for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs from a reputable source. Using high-quality ingredients will elevate the taste of your Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken and make it truly irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken, to help you troubleshoot and achieve the best results:

Q1: Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. However, bone-in chicken will take longer to cook through. Increase the simmering time in the glaze to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Bone-in chicken will also be more flavorful and moist due to the bone and skin.

Q2: Can I grill the chicken instead of searing and simmering it?

A: Absolutely! Grilling Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken is a fantastic option, especially during warmer months. Grill the chicken over medium heat until cooked through, brushing with the honey mustard glaze during the last few minutes of grilling to caramelize the glaze without burning it. Be sure to monitor the chicken closely on the grill to prevent charring.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken ahead of time. Cook the chicken according to the recipe instructions, and then let it cool slightly before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave until heated through. The glaze may thicken upon cooling, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.

Q4: Can I freeze Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken?

A: Yes, you can freeze cooked Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken. Let the chicken cool completely, then place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave. The texture of the glaze may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavor should remain delicious.

Q5: What if I don’t have Dijon mustard? Can I use another type of mustard?

A: While Dijon mustard is recommended for its classic flavor, you can substitute it with other types of mustard. Whole grain mustard will add a rustic texture and slightly milder flavor. Yellow mustard will be the mildest option and will result in a sweeter glaze. Spicy brown mustard will add a bit of heat. Adjust the amount of honey and other seasonings to balance the flavor depending on the type of mustard you use.

Print