Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

When it comes to a quick yet delicious meal, few options can compete with Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken. Its sweet and tangy flavor paired with juicy, tender chicken makes it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends for a barbecue, or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s not just about taste; the combination of honey and mustard creates a marinade that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful while grilling. Plus, it’s incredibly straightforward to prepare. What’s not to love?

Why You’ll Love This Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

This dish combines simplicity with wonderful flavor. It’s a go-to recipe that checks all the boxes: easy preparation, minimal ingredients, and no fuss grilling. Not only is the honey mustard glaze mouthwatering, but it also serves as a delightful companion to a variety of side dishes, making it versatile for any occasion. With the homemade marinade, you have full control over the components, ensuring that every bite is perfect. Plus, the grilling process brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and adds a smoky finish that is hard to resist. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

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Delicious honey mustard grilled chicken served on a plate with fresh herbs.

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken


  • Author: Sarah Mendez
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a flavorful, juicy dish made with a tangy-sweet marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Perfect for summer cookouts or a weeknight dinner, it’s easy to prepare and full of bold, balanced flavors.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Optional: spicy Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, parsley or cilantro (for garnish), lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and thyme.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, reserve some marinade before adding the raw chicken to use as a drizzle after cooking (boil before using).
  • Great with grilled vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.
  • If using chicken thighs, adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 530mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: honey mustard grilled chicken, grilled chicken recipe, summer grilling, easy chicken marinade, healthy grilled chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need for Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

To create this delicious Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

  • Essentials:

    • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
    • 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
    • 1/3 cup honey
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
    • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Optional Add-Ons:

    • Spicy Dijon mustard for a kick
    • Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
    • Add cayenne pepper if you like it spicy
    • Serve with fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor

With these ingredients, you’ll have everything you need to make a delightful meal that your family and friends will love!

How to Make Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Step by Step

Cooking this Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is easy and fun. Follow these detailed steps to bring your dish to life:

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme. You want to mix it well until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth.

  2. Marinate the Chicken: Take your chicken breasts and place them into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well covered. If using a bag, seal it tightly and gently shake it to distribute the marinade. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for up to 8 hours will enhance the flavor even more!

  3. Preheat the Grill: Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat, which is about 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel soaked in oil.

  4. Grill the Chicken: Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade. Allow any excess marinade to drip off to prevent flare-ups on the grill. Place the chicken breasts directly on the grill. Grill for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The chicken should have nice grill marks and a juicy texture.

  5. Rest and Serve: After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender bite. Serve your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. For an added touch, drizzle any remaining honey mustard sauce over the top.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is versatile, making it perfect for a variety of sides. Here are some tasty options to complement your meal:

  • Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus taste amazing when grilled alongside the chicken. Simply toss them in oil and a pinch of salt before grilling to perfection.

  • Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the sweetness of the chicken. For extra flavor, add sliced avocado or crumbled feta cheese.

  • Fluffy Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or a lemon-infused couscous to soak up all those delicious flavors.

  • Sweet Potatoes: Baked sweet potatoes or sweet potato fries add a nice touch and bring contrasting sweetness to the plate.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Want to elevate your cooking game? Here are some pro tips to ensure your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a hit every time:

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to check if chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for juiciness.

  • Avoid Overcrowding the Grill: Cook chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of grilling.

  • Let the Chicken Rest: This step is crucial. Giving the chicken a chance to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps keep it juicy.

  • Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to tweak the mustard or honey quantities based on your personal taste. You can also add chili sauce for a spicy twist.

  • Make it Ahead of Time: For busy nights, marinate the chicken the night before. This allows for a quick grill when you’re ready to eat.

Easy Variations for Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

While the classic recipe is delicious, consider trying these easy variations to spice things up:

  • Honey Mustard Salmon: Swap the chicken for salmon fillets. The marinade works beautifully with fish and cooks in about the same time on the grill.

  • Honey Mustard Shrimp: Marinate shrimp for a quick, tasty grilled option that cooks in just minutes.

  • Honey Mustard Pork Chops: Use pork chops instead of chicken breasts to enjoy a flavorful take on this recipe.

  • Honey Mustard Veggies: Toss some vegetables like broccoli or carrots in the marinade and grill them for a delicious vegetarian option.

Storage Tips to Store Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

If you happen to have leftovers (though that rarely happens!), here’s how to store them properly:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for 3 to 4 days.

  • Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It should keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

  • Reheating: When ready to eat again, reheat the chicken in the oven at a low temperature, about 350 degrees Fahrenheit, until warmed through, to keep it juicy. Avoid the microwave to prevent toughness.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is more than just a dinner option; it’s a recipe that brings family and friends together. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a delicious meal that impresses everyone at the table. The versatility of the dish allows you to mix and match sides, ensuring that every meal feels unique. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and prepare to delight your taste buds with this tasty dish!

FAQs About Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

1. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator.

2. Is it okay to use bottled honey mustard?

Absolutely! You can use bottled honey mustard for convenience. Just reduce the amount of honey in the recipe to prevent it from being too sweet.

3. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since skin-on portions may take longer to grill.

5. What should I do with leftover marinade?

Never reuse marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken. However, you can reserve a small portion before marinating to use as a sauce later. Just make sure to cook it to ensure it’s safe to eat!

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