This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is super tasty and easy to make! With its sweet and tangy sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
I love grilling this chicken on warm days. It gives such a nice flavor, and the sticky sauce is perfect for dipping. Plus, minimal cleanup means more time for fun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Honey: Honey is important for sweetness and sauce texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider agave syrup or maple syrup. Brown sugar also works in a pinch, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Dijon Mustard: This gives your marinade a rich, tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can be a substitute, though it’s not as smooth and spiced. Whole grain mustard is also great for added texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps keep your chicken moist while grilling. If you’re out of it, vegetable oil is an easy swap. For a unique flavor, try avocado oil too.
Fresh Herbs: Chives or parsley add a fresh touch as garnish. If you don’t have these, try other herbs like cilantro or basil for a different twist. Dried herbs can also work if fresh is not available.
What’s the Best Way to Marinade Chicken for More Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key for juicy, flavorful results. Allowing it to soak in the honey mustard mixture enhances taste. Here are steps for effective marination:
- Use a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish to allow maximum surface area for marinade contact.
- Make sure the marinade fully coats the chicken. Use your hands to massage it in if using a bag.
- For best results, let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better.
Remember to discard the marinade when you’re ready to grill for safety!
How to Make Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For Garnishing:
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled honey mustard chicken recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll also want to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). The grilling will take about 15 minutes, so in total, plan for around 25-30 minutes plus marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This sweet and tangy mixture is what gives the chicken its delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge. Aim to let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, letting it sit for 4 hours or overnight will give you even more tasty results!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to keep the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off (be sure to discard the leftover marinade). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken has nice grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle back in so your chicken stays juicy and tender. Slice the chicken, decorate with fresh chopped chives or parsley, and if you like, serve with additional honey mustard sauce. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken takes longer to cook—around 10-12 minutes per side depending on size. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No problem! You can use yellow mustard or a combination of yellow mustard and a bit of honey to mimic the flavor. If you prefer a different taste, try using whole grain mustard for added texture!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to keep it moist!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the honey mustard marinade a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, simply stir it again to combine before marinating your chicken!
