This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is a tasty treat! It combines juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze that you’ll love. Perfect for sunny days!
Honestly, the combo of flavors makes every bite a little joy! I often grill extra just to enjoy the leftovers in salads or sandwiches. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re looking for something different, try using chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even tofu for a plant-based option.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness that balances out the sharpness of the mustard. For a sugar-free alternative, you could use agave syrup or even maple syrup, though it will change the taste slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This gives your marinade a nice tang. If you don’t have Dijon, you can use yellow mustard, though it’s milder. A whole grain mustard can also add a nice texture.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps with marinating and keeps the chicken moist on the grill. You could substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be tough! First, marinate your chicken for a good amount of time; 2 hours gives great flavor. When grilling, keep an eye on the temperature and cook on medium-high heat. This helps sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Start by preheating your grill thoroughly and oiling the grates.
- Place the chicken on once it’s hot, and avoid flipping too early; wait for grill marks to form.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F); this prevents overcooking!
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for at least 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute for a succulent bite.
How to Make Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus a minimum of 30 minutes to marinate. You can let the chicken sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours for more flavor. Grill time is around 15 minutes, with an additional 5 minutes for resting. So overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour including marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed. This mixture will be your delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the honey mustard marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is covered well. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will really boost the flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
After marinating, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil. This is an important step!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade—it’s important not to reuse it for safety reasons. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, or until you see nice grill marks on it. Then flip the chicken over and cook for another 6-7 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Let it Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This lets the juices settle in the chicken for a juicier bite. Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a nice pop of color and flavor before serving. Enjoy your tasty Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and stay juicier than breasts. Just ensure they are trimmed and boneless. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, usually adding 1-2 minutes per side depending on thickness.
What Can I Use Instead of Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with yellow mustard for a milder flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, you might also try whole grain mustard, which will add both texture and taste to the marinade!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature to keep it moist. You can also slice it and add it cold to salads or wraps!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great option! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeper. Just remember to keep it refrigerated and use it within 24 hours for the best taste and safety.
