Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Summer is a time for outdoor gatherings, family barbecues, and flavorful meals that don’t take all day to prepare. If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious option to please the whole family, look no further than Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken. This recipe is not only simple, but it also features a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. In just 20 minutes, you can grill tender chicken breasts drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. Pair it with seasonal veggies or a light salad, and you have a complete meal.
What Is Summer Dinner Ideas: Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken in 20 Minutes?
Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is a versatile dish perfect for summer evenings. The chicken is marinated in a vibrant mixture of honey, mustard, and spices, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill, providing a succulent texture and a tantalizing taste. This dish caters to busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings alike, as it satisfies cravings without consuming your day. The cooking is quick, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of friends and family while fostering a festive atmosphere.
Why You’ll Love This
There are countless reasons to love this Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken. First, the marinade is incredibly simple to prepare and uses pantry staples. In addition to being a crowd-pleaser, it’s a healthier alternative to other barbecue fare. The marinade not only provides flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during grilling. It’s great for meal prep too; you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and have it ready for grilling whenever you are. With its irresistible flavors and speedy preparation, this dish will quickly become a go-to for summer dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the star of the dish. Chicken breasts cook quickly on the grill and become juicy when infused with the marinade.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness to the dish while helping to caramelize the chicken on the grill.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Provides a robust flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the chicken from sticking to the grill and adds flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness that complements the grilling process.
How to Make
- Begin by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined. This will create a flavorful blend that will both marinate and glaze the chicken.
- Next, place the chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag tightly and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes—up to an hour for even better flavor development.
- While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This allows for a good sear on the chicken, locking in the juices and ensuring they remain tender.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice grill marks. Enjoy the enticing aroma as they cook!
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Variations & Substitutions
Lemon Herb Variation: For a refreshing twist, substitute the honey with fresh lemon juice and incorporate herbs such as thyme or rosemary in the marinade. The citrusy flavor will brighten the dish, making it perfect for a summer evening. The herbs add an aromatic fragrance that complements the grilling process beautifully.
Spicy Mustard Variation: If you prefer a kick, try adding a tablespoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the marinade. This will give your Honey Mustard Chicken an exciting heat that balances out the sweetness of the honey. Keep in mind that spicy and sweet can wonderfully complement each other, leading to a delightful culinary experience.
Vegetarian Alternative: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini. Use the same marinade and grill until tender. The smokiness from the grill will elevate the vegetables, making them a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of. One mistake is marinating for too long; while marinating enhances flavor, doing so for more than an hour can lead to a mushy texture due to the acidity in mustard. Be sure to keep a close eye on the grilling time as well—chicken can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quickly on high heat. Another misstep is not allowing the chicken to rest after grilling, which can result in dry chicken. Giving it just a few minutes to rest will ensure a juicy and flavorful meal.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Proper storage can significantly extend the life of your grilled honey mustard chicken. To store, simply place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3-4 days when stored correctly. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, avoid using the microwave if possible as it can rubberize the chicken. Instead, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it on a grill for a few minutes to restore some of that original grilled flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can certainly use bone-in chicken pieces. However, they will take longer to cook than boneless breasts. Make sure to adjust your cooking time and check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) at the bone.
What can I serve with grilled honey mustard chicken? This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, seasonal grilled vegetables, or a light pasta dish tossed in olive oil and herbs. For a heartier option, rice or quinoa can also complement the flavors.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time? Yes! The marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before use. This is a fantastic time-saver for busy nights when you’d like to minimize prep time.
Is it healthy? Grilled honey mustard chicken is a healthy option, especially when compared to fried alternatives. Chicken is a great source of lean protein while the marinade contains natural ingredients. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of honey to lower the sugar content if desired.
Can I grill this chicken indoors? Although grilling outdoors is preferred for that smoky flavor, you can achieve similar results using a grill pan on the stove. Just be sure to heat the pan thoroughly before adding the chicken, and keep an eye on the cooking time.
Conclusion: If you’re searching for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dinner idea, Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is the perfect choice. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish captures the essence of summer dining while creating delightful memories around the table. Try it out, and watch it become a staple in your summer menu!
