Honey Mustard Chicken: Irresistibly Golden Chicken in Tangy Honey Mustard Sauce

There’s something truly magical about transforming a humble ingredient like chicken into a dish that bursts with flavor and warmth. My journey into the world of home cooking began with a simple yet unforgettable recipe: Honey Mustard Chicken. This dish quickly became a family favorite, not just for its delectable taste but for the memories it cooked up around our dinner table.

As a passionate home cook, I’ve always believed that the best meals often start with the simplest ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, Honey Mustard Chicken has the power to bring people together, offering comfort and joy in every bite. The blend of honey and mustard creates a perfect harmony that elevates the chicken to new heights, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress.

Cooking is all about creating connections and discovering the joy of crafting something delicious from scratch. This Honey Mustard Chicken recipe is not only a testament to my love for cooking but also a celebration of the delightful dance of flavors that simple ingredients can offer. Join me in this culinary adventure as we explore the art of making Honey Mustard Chicken that’s sure to become a cherished part of your family’s meals.

Honey Mustard Chicken

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• Author: Isabella
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Learn how to make delicious honey mustard chicken with this easy recipe. Perfectly sweet and tangy, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any mealtime.

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Ingredients

• – 1.5 kg (3.3 lb) chicken tenderloin or chicken breast cut into thick strips
• – Salt and pepper
• – 2 tbsp (30 ml) flour
• – 1 tsp (5 ml) garlic powder
• – 1 tbsp (15 ml) mayonnaise
• – 1 tsp (5 ml) cornstarch / cornflour or 2 tsp (10 ml) flour
• – 2 tbsp (30 ml) + 1/2 tbsp (8 ml) olive oil
• – 2 cloves garlic, minced
• – 1 cup (250 ml) chicken broth / stock
• – 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (70g)
• – 1/4 cup honey (85g)
• – 1 – 2 tbsp (23 ml) wholegrain mustard, adjust to taste
• – 2 tsp (10 ml) sprigs thyme or 1/2 dried thyme
• – Fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then coat them with the seasoning if you’re using it.
2. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and cornstarch to make a thickening mixture.
3. Warm up 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Set the chicken aside on a plate.
4. Lower the heat to medium. Pour the remaining olive oil into the skillet and add the minced garlic directly onto the oil. Sauté for about 20 seconds until it becomes golden, making sure it doesn’t burn.
5. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, bringing it to a simmer while scraping the skillet’s bottom.
6. Stir in the Dijon mustard and honey, then mix in the thickening mixture, ensuring you incorporate all of it.
7. Add thyme and wholegrain mustard, adjusting the quantity to your preference.
8. Let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
9. Put the chicken back into the skillet along with any juices that collected on the plate. Turn the chicken in the sauce to coat it thoroughly and heat it for about 1 1/2 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
10. Serve the chicken over mashed potatoes, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and pair with a simple salad.

Notes

• Substitute flour with cornstarch or cornflour for a gluten-free option in the seasoning mix.
• Adjust the amount of wholegrain mustard to your liking for desired tanginess.
• Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature for thorough cooking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 15g

Keywords: chicken tenderloin, honey mustard, skillet chicken, Dijon mustard sauce, creamy chicken, garlic chicken

The Essentials of Honey Mustard Chicken

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect Honey Mustard Chicken starts with understanding the fundamentals of this classic dish. The essence of its flavor lies in the harmonious blend of honey and mustard, which work together to complement the tender chicken, offering a balance of sweetness and tang. These key ingredients transform chicken into a flavorful masterpiece.

To achieve this, you’ll need chicken tenderloin or breast, which should be cut into thick strips. Season these with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. The simplicity of these ingredients allows the honey mustard sauce to shine, making the dish both comforting and delicious.

Preparation/Setup

Preparation is key to ensuring your Honey Mustard Chicken turns out perfectly. Start by coating the seasoned chicken strips with a light dusting of flour and garlic powder. This helps create a golden crust when the chicken is pan-fried, adding texture to each bite.

Next, make a thickening mixture with mayonnaise and cornstarch. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency in the sauce, allowing it to cling to the chicken beautifully. With these preparations in place, you’re ready to begin cooking.

Crafting the Perfect Honey Mustard Chicken

Technique

The technique for cooking Honey Mustard Chicken involves a few simple steps that ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken strips. Cook them for approximately two minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This initial sear locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.

Once the chicken is cooked, set it aside and lower the heat. Sauté minced garlic in the remaining olive oil, taking care not to burn it. This step releases the garlic’s aroma, infusing the dish with its subtle flavor.

Tips/Tricks

For the best results, take your time to let the garlic sauté to a perfect golden hue, as this enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. When adding chicken broth to the skillet, use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits. These bits are flavor gold, adding depth to your sauce.

Incorporate the thickening mixture, Dijon mustard, honey, thyme, and wholegrain mustard, stirring until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer, letting it thicken naturally. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the sauce complements the chicken perfectly.

Mastering Honey Mustard Chicken

Perfecting Results

To master Honey Mustard Chicken, focus on achieving the right sauce consistency and flavor balance. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not so thick that it overpowers the chicken. It’s all about that perfect balance between sweet and tangy.

Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly with the sauce. This step ensures every bite is infused with the honey mustard flavor, offering a delightful taste experience.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your sauce is too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer until it reaches the desired thickness. If it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up. For a variation, try adding a touch of heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

For those who enjoy a more robust flavor, consider enhancing the dish with a touch of wholegrain mustard, adjusting the quantity to your preference. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the sauce.

Serving and Storing Your Honey Mustard Chicken

Serving/Presentation

Presentation plays a significant role in the dining experience. Serve your Honey Mustard Chicken over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the sauce to seep into the mash, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s freshness.

Pair this dish with a simple salad to add a refreshing contrast. The crispness of the greens balances the richness of the chicken, creating a well-rounded meal. For more inspiration, check out our One Pot Honey Garlic Chicken and Noodles.

Pairings/Storage

When storing leftovers, place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors even after the meal is over. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the chicken’s tenderness.

For a delightful twist, use the leftover chicken as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. The honey mustard sauce acts as a flavorful spread, making it a versatile option for quick meals. Explore more creative dishes with our Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken is a testament to the power of simple ingredients in creating a dish that delights the senses. The delicate balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal, perfect for any occasion. This recipe not only offers a delectable taste experience but also the joy of sharing a delicious homemade meal with loved ones.

With its ease of preparation and versatility, Honey Mustard Chicken is a recipe that every home cook should have in their repertoire. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or impressing guests with your culinary skills, this dish is sure to become a favorite. For more inspiration on chicken dishes, explore our Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken Lo Mein.

FAQs – Honey Mustard Chicken