Healthy Chicken With Honey Mustard Glaze
Highlighted under: Nutritious Creations
I’m always on the lookout for meals that are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. This Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze has become a staple in our home because it manages to tick all the boxes: it’s simple to prepare, packed with protein, and the sweetness of the honey perfectly balances the tangy mustard. After trying multiple combinations, I found that using Dijon mustard along with fresh herbs really elevates the dish. It’s become our go-to dinner for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Making Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze turned out to be one of those delightful kitchen experiments. I wanted something versatile and vibrant that pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables. Using a simple mixture of honey and Dijon mustard helped me achieve that balance of sweet and savory I was searching for. Trust me, this glaze adds a delicious depth to the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
What I discovered while preparing this dish is that letting the chicken marinate for even a short while really enhances the flavor. You don’t need hours; even 15 minutes in the fridge works wonders. I love serving it over a bed of quinoa, which adds extra texture and a healthy kick to the meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory sweetness from the honey-glaze blend
- Quick and easy preparation – perfect for a busy weeknight
- Packed with protein and nutrients, making it a wholesome choice
Mastering the Marinade
The marinade for this Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze is where the magic begins. Combining Dijon mustard with honey creates a harmonious blend of flavors that not only adds sweetness but also depth to the chicken. The olive oil ensures that the chicken remains moist during the cooking process. When mixing your marinade, make sure to whisk vigorously to emulsify the ingredients, which helps them adhere better to the chicken and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For those looking to amp up the flavor without adding too much time to the prep, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the marinade. This not only brightens the dish but also aids in tenderizing the chicken. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes is essential, but for even deeper flavor infusion, you can let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken
Baking the chicken at 375°F (190°C) is ideal, as this temperature allows the chicken to cook evenly while developing a lovely golden color on the outside. Keep an eye on the chicken for the last few minutes of baking; you'll know it's done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear. If you don't have a meat thermometer, a visual cue to look for is the chicken turning a light golden brown with slightly crispy edges.
When it comes to preventing dry chicken, letting the chicken rest post-baking is crucial. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite succulent. If you ever find that your chicken is a bit dry, don't fret; slicing it thin and drizzling with a little extra honey or a light chicken broth can enhance moisture before serving.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish
With these ingredients ready, you can move on to preparing your delicious dish!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze:
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
Serve
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.
Enjoy this tasty chicken dish with a colorful salad or steamed vegetables!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey if you prefer a different sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing your Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli can create a well-rounded meal. The natural sweetness of these vegetables complements the honey glaze beautifully. You can roast the veggies in the same oven at 375°F, ensuring you time them correctly to come out simultaneously with the chicken.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, which would soak up the delicious honey mustard sauce. You can also add a side salad with vibrant greens and a light vinaigrette to add freshness and crunch.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using the oven at 350°F (175°C) to ensure the chicken warms through without becoming dry. Covering it with foil can help retain moisture during this process.
If you want to freeze the chicken, it's best to do so before baking. Place the marinated chicken breasts in a resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as per the original instructions for a quick weeknight meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but the cooking time will increase. Make sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
→ How can I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
→ What are some side dishes that go well with this chicken?
Roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad make excellent companions for this dish.
→ Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives.
Healthy Chicken With Honey Mustard Glaze
I’m always on the lookout for meals that are not only healthy but also bursting with flavor. This Healthy Chicken with Honey Mustard Glaze has become a staple in our home because it manages to tick all the boxes: it’s simple to prepare, packed with protein, and the sweetness of the honey perfectly balances the tangy mustard. After trying multiple combinations, I found that using Dijon mustard along with fresh herbs really elevates the dish. It’s become our go-to dinner for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.
Created by: Rhea Bennett
Recipe Type: Nutritious Creations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Allow it to marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite sides.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also substitute maple syrup for honey if you prefer a different sweetener.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 30g