Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Skillet Cooking · Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, sweet-savory sauce that's perfect for any holiday gathering.
Introduction: As the cool breeze of autumn sweeps through New York City, I find myself craving cozy meals that not only warm the soul but are also suitable for upcoming gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Enter the star of the season: Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken. This dish embodies the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, and it's become a favorite of mine for dinner parties and holiday feasts alike.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will delight your taste buds.
- Quick to prepare and cook, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
- Comforting and creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.
- Simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to serve at dinner parties.
- Leftovers taste just as good, making it a great meal prep option.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken:
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Honey: ¼ cup of pure honey
- Dijon Mustard: ¼ cup of Dijon mustard
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup of heavy cream
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped thyme or parsley for garnish
How to Make Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken (Step-by-Step)
This Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken is easy to make and packed with flavor. Follow these steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients. I love using a sharp chef's knife to mince the garlic; the aroma is just divine! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), a crucial step to ensure your chicken has that perfect, mouthwatering sear.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances flavor but also creates that enticing golden crust when seared.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In a large 10-inch cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The smell wafting from the skillet will have your mouth watering.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
Step 5: Combine Liquid Ingredients
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the honey and Dijon mustard, stirring until they are well blended. The mixture becomes glossy and fragrant very quickly. Pour in the heavy cream slowly, whisking continuously until the sauce has thickened slightly - about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Skillet
Place the chicken back into the skillet, making sure to coat each piece in that velvety sauce. Let it simmer for an extra 2-3 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
Step 7: Finish in the Oven
If your skillet is oven-safe, you can place the entire skillet in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. This gives the chicken a chance to soak up even more sauce while ensuring it's cooked evenly throughout.
Step 8: Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish your Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with freshly chopped thyme or parsley and serve hot. I love pairing this elegant dish with roasted vegetables or a fluffy mashed potato on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the searing step: This step creates a flavorful crust that enhances the dish. Don't rush it!
- Using imitation honey: Opt for pure honey; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid dryness. It should be tender and juicy with a slight jiggle in the center when done.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an added layer of flavor, experiment with different mustards or add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce.
- This recipe is fantastic for meal prep; just double the ingredients and freeze leftovers for busy weeknights.
- Serve your chicken with a side of crusty bread to soak up that incredible sauce.
Variations
- Try using maple syrup instead of honey for a unique twist.
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate different herbs like rosemary or tarragon for variation in taste.
How to Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped thyme or parsley for a pop of color.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
- Serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting side.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, store separately, and combine before serving.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: The dish can be frozen for later use; simply thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
In testing this recipe, I discovered that the quality of ingredients truly shines through. Using fresh herbs and pure honey elevates the dish in ways you wouldn't expect. This creamy honey mustard sauce has quickly become my go-to for impressing guests during the holiday season!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 35g protein · 10g carbs · 30g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken for Cozy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add honey and Dijon mustard, then stir in heavy cream, whisking until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coat in sauce, and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- If skillet is oven-safe, place in the oven for 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with sides of choice.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They will add a richer flavor and tend to be juicier.
2. What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter option.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure the Dijon mustard you use is gluten-free as some brands may contain gluten.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and reheat it before serving. Just avoid baking it until you are ready to serve.
5. What side dishes pair well with Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
