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This grilled honey mustard chicken is a straightforward weeknight staple that balances sweet and tangy flavors with juicy, tender chicken breasts. It livens up the dinner table without demanding too much prep time or fancy ingredients.
I first made this after craving something quick but satisfying and it quickly became our go-to for busy evenings. The marinade is so easy to mix up and the results never disappoint.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: are the star, choose plump, even-sized pieces for consistent cooking
- Fresh garlic: adds a punch of flavor, minced finely to avoid big chunks
- Honey: brings sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize on the grill, opt for a mild variety so it does not overpower
- Dijon mustard: lends the tang and a little sharpness, pick a quality brand for best flavor
- Olive oil: helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly and prevents sticking to the grill
- Low-sodium soy sauce: adds subtle umami without being too salty
- Fresh lemon juice: brightens the marinade, use fresh instead of bottled for a fresher taste
Instructions
- Marinate The Chicken:
- Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a medium bowl until everything is smooth and combined. Place the chicken breasts into a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you have more time, marinate it for up to 4 hours for even more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Prepare The Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature helps create a golden crust without burning the chicken before it's fully cooked on the inside.
- Grill The Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting any excess drip off but do not pat dry. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid cross-contamination. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side without moving it. Flip carefully and cook for another 6 to 7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.
- Rest And Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute making each bite moist. Slice against the grain and garnish with fresh herbs if you like, then serve with your favorite sides.
My favorite thing about this recipe is how the honey caramelizes on the grill giving the chicken a beautiful golden color and slightly crispy edges. This dish also brings back memories of summer cookouts with friends where everyone asked for seconds and the kids loved the sweet flavor.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It tastes great cold in sandwiches or warmed gently on the stove or microwave. If you want to store longer, freeze the cooked chicken tightly wrapped for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have Dijon mustard use yellow mustard but expect a slightly milder tang. Maple syrup can replace honey for a different sweetness profile. Tamari can substitute soy sauce for a gluten-free option. For cooking, if you do not have a grill you can use a grill pan or broiler to get similar charred flavor.
Serving Ideas
Serve this chicken sliced over mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette for a light meal or alongside grilled corn and roasted potatoes for hearty comfort food. Top with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and herbs on the side for a creamy contrast.
This grilled honey mustard chicken is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for quick family dinners any night of the week.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate, while up to 4 hours will deepen the taste and tenderness.
- → What internal temperature ensures the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook chicken until reaching 165°F internally to ensure juiciness and safe consumption.
- → Can I substitute Dijon mustard with another type?
Yellow mustard can be used, but Dijon provides a sharper, more balanced tang that complements the honey well.
- → What sides pair well with the grilled chicken?
Grilled vegetables, rice, or fresh salad make excellent accompaniments to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.
- → Should I discard or reuse the leftover marinade?
Discard the leftover marinade after removing the chicken to avoid contamination from raw meat.