Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
Highlighted under: Homestyle Happiness
I love making this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet for a quick yet delicious dinner. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavorful sauce that coats the tender chicken perfectly. It’s easy to prepare and uses just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. I often pair it with steamed vegetables or rice, which soak up the delightful sauce. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to brighten up any weeknight meal.
When I first stumbled upon the honey mustard sauce, I realized it would be perfect for chicken. I decided to experiment with it in a skillet, and the results were better than I expected! The chicken becomes so tender and absorbs all those incredible flavors. I also discovered that adding a splash of chicken broth enhances the sauce while keeping it light.
This recipe has quickly become a staple in my household because it's effortless and full of flavor. The one-skillet method means that dinner is on the table in just 30 minutes, and who doesn’t love that? Pairing it with roasted veggies makes for a balanced meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
- One skillet means easy cleanup without compromising on taste
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Mastering the Balance of Flavors
The balance of honey and Dijon mustard is the star of this dish, creating a luscious sauce that beautifully complements the chicken. The sweetness of the honey pairs exquisitely with the pungency of the mustard. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider using a whole grain mustard, which introduces a delightful texture and a bit of heat. Always taste your sauce before combining it with the chicken; this ensures you achieve the perfect flavor profile for your palate.
For those who want to experiment, adding a splash of soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor of the dish. Or try substituting maple syrup for honey for a slightly different sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with Dijon mustard. Just keep in mind that each substitution will alter the sauce’s consistency, so adjust the chicken broth as needed to maintain your desired thickness.
Cooking Techniques and Timing
Cooking the chicken to the right doneness is crucial to achieving a juicy texture. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. If you notice the chicken starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning the exterior while ensuring the inside stays moist. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute.
When making the sauce, be careful not to boil it vigorously; a gentle simmer is all that’s needed to bring out the flavors without altering the texture. Stir occasionally to prevent it from catching on the bottom of the skillet. Once it’s glossy and has slightly thickened, you’ll know it’s ready to coat the chicken. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir until combined and simmer for about 2 minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve
Serve the chicken with the sauce drizzled over it. Enjoy it warm with your favorite sides!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey mustard mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a wholesome dinner, serve it over a bed of jasmine or basmati rice, which will soak up the sauce nicely. Alternatively, roasted potatoes or a simple quinoa salad can provide a great textural contrast. If you’re looking to keep it lighter, a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for some crunch and color would be ideal.
For a more indulgent option, consider topping the chicken with toasted sesame seeds or fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the visual appeal and freshness of the dish. You could even drizzle a bit more honey over the top for extra sweetness right before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, the key is to keep the chicken moist; consider warming it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it, covered, in short bursts of 30 seconds, allowing it to heat evenly without overcooking the chicken.
For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you can savor a delicious homemade dinner even on the busiest of nights.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture and flavor.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it when ready to serve.
→ Is there a way to make the sauce spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
I love making this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet for a quick yet delicious dinner. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a flavorful sauce that coats the tender chicken perfectly. It’s easy to prepare and uses just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. I often pair it with steamed vegetables or rice, which soak up the delightful sauce. This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to brighten up any weeknight meal.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Homestyle Happiness
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
How-To Steps
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir until combined and simmer for about 2 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Serve the chicken with the sauce drizzled over it. Enjoy it warm with your favorite sides!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the honey mustard mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 30g