Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Favorites
I absolutely love whipping up this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet on busy weeknights. The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a delicious glaze that infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it incredibly juicy. In just 30 minutes, I can serve a satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Plus, the one-skillet method means minimal cleanup, making it my go-to when I want something quick yet impressive. You'll never want to order takeout again after trying this simple, mouth-watering dish!
When I first tried this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet, I was amazed by how quickly it came together. The key is to sear the chicken to achieve a golden-brown crust before adding the honey mustard glaze. It caramelizes beautifully and enhances the overall flavor. I recommend having all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking for a seamless experience.
As I perfected the recipe, I learned that using Dijon mustard gives it the perfect tang without overpowering the sweetness of the honey. This balance is crucial, and a splash of apple cider vinegar adds a nice acidity that brightens the dish. Pair it with some fresh veggies or rice, and you have a wholesome meal in no time!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Sweet and tangy glaze that elevates chicken to new heights
- One skillet means easy cleanup and minimal fuss
- Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner without sacrificing flavor
Mastering the Perfect Glaze
The glaze is what truly sets this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet apart. The balance of honey and Dijon mustard not only enhances the chicken's flavor but also forms a sticky coating that caramelizes beautifully while cooking. To achieve that glossy finish, make sure to simmer the chicken in the glaze for a full five minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and cling to the meat, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. This will introduce an exciting layer of flavor without overwhelming the sweetness. Just 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne can add a surprising depth that complements the honey’s sweetness beautifully, making it a standout dish for guests.
Tips for Cooking Chicken Breasts
Cooking chicken breasts can sometimes lead to dry meat if not handled properly. For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your chicken is fully cooked while remaining juicy. Also, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking; this helps them cook uniformly and reduces the risk of the edges drying out while the thick part finishes cooking.
Another tip is to let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each piece is tender and flavorful. Keeping the skillet covered during this time also helps retain warmth while you prepare your sides.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Once you have these ingredients ready, you can start cooking your Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your dish.
Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken.
Simmer and Glaze
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.
Serve
Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey mustard glaze. This will bring a delightful heat that complements the sweetness beautifully!
Storage and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, this Honey Mustard Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, opt for gently warming it in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of water to the pan to help maintain moisture during reheating.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you're ready to enjoy it again. The glaze may separate during freezing, but simply reheating it on the stove will help bring everything back together.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, which will balance the richness of the glaze. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider pairing it with quinoa or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious honey mustard sauce.
For a fun twist, try serving the honey mustard chicken in tacos. Shred the cooked chicken and combine it with slaw, avocado, and extra sauce in soft tortillas. This lets you enjoy the same great flavors in a new and exciting way, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook through, so ensure it's fully cooked to a temperature of 165°F.
→ What are some good side dishes for this chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the honey mustard glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just sear the chicken and glaze it when you're ready to serve.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free mustard, this recipe is entirely gluten-free.
Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
I absolutely love whipping up this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet on busy weeknights. The combination of tangy mustard and sweet honey creates a delicious glaze that infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it incredibly juicy. In just 30 minutes, I can serve a satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Plus, the one-skillet method means minimal cleanup, making it my go-to when I want something quick yet impressive. You'll never want to order takeout again after trying this simple, mouth-watering dish!
Created by: Serena Whitaker
Recipe Type: Weeknight Quick Meals Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until well combined. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer in the glaze for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.
Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey mustard glaze. This will bring a delightful heat that complements the sweetness beautifully!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g