Ready in: 1 hour 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
For a flavorful and juicy meal, marinate chicken breasts in a sweet and tangy honey mustard mixture, grill until perfectly cooked, and serve with your favorite sides.
Living in New York City, I'm always on the lookout for easy and delicious recipes that can transition from casual weeknight dinners to festive holiday gatherings. This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that encapsulates the warmth of family meals, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a summer barbecue or a cozy holiday feast.
A Crowd-Pleasing Grill Favorite
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients.
- The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Perfect for summer grilling or any cozy family gathering.
- Versatile dish that can be served with salads, vegetables, or in wraps.
- Leftovers make for delicious next-day meals.
Ingredients
This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken recipe uses simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch.
For the Marinade
- ½ cup Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish (optional)
How to Make Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken (Step-by-Step)
This step-by-step guide will help you create the most delicious Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken.
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until you achieve a glossy, smooth mixture. The combination of honey's sweetness and the tangy Dijon is truly delightful!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight. This gives the flavors time to infuse deeply into the chicken. As it marinates, the chicken absorbs all that umami goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. If using a charcoal grill, let the coals ash over until they are glowing red.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and place it on the grill. For perfectly grilled chicken breasts, cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, until golden brown, before flipping. The key is to leave it undisturbed so those lovely grill marks can form. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes on the other side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent.
Step 6: Serve
Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if using. Pair with a seasonal salad, or perhaps some roasted vegetables for a dish that sings "family gathering" not just during Thanksgiving and Christmas, but any day that calls for warmth and comfort.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Marinade Time: A minimum of one hour is key for flavor development. Don't rush it!
- Not Checking Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer; overcooked chicken can be dry and unappetizing.
- Overcrowding the Grill: If you're grilling multiple pieces, leave space between each for even cooking.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Try adding a dash of paprika to the marinade for a smokier flavor.
- Grilled honey mustard chicken also works wonderfully sliced over a fresh green salad for a light, healthy lunch.
- Leftovers can be easily made into scrumptious sandwiches or wraps.
Variations
- Substitute apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a sweeter taste.
- Add fresh herbs like oregano or cilantro to the marinade for extra flavor.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness profile.
- Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
How to Serve
- Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme.
- Pair with a seasonal salad for a refreshing meal.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before for maximum flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover grilled honey mustard chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture may be affected.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
While testing this recipe, I discovered just how transformative a simple marinade can be-turning plain chicken into a flavor-packed centerpiece. The balance of honey and mustard is not just delicious; it's versatile enough to suit any seasonal occasion.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 30g protein · 10g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Juicy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until you achieve a glossy, smooth mixture.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally, overnight.
- Heat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice the chicken and garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme if using. Pair with a seasonal salad or some roasted vegetables.
Notes
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
A minimum of one hour is essential for flavor development, but ideally, marinate the chicken overnight for the best results.
What is the best way to check if the chicken is cooked through?
The best method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure it's safely cooked.
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. However, the cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on the internal temperature.
