Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken

Creamy honey mustard chicken is a delicious and easy dish that combines savory, tangy, and sweet flavors. The creamy sauce is perfect for making the chicken juicy and flavorful. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for extra tang)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using).
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the Dijon mustard and honey, stirring to combine.
• Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add a little lemon juice for extra tang or more honey if you like it sweeter.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the honey mustard sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat the chicken and warm through.

5. Serve:

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. You can serve the creamy honey mustard chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

how long does Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken last

reamy honey mustard chicken can last for a few days when stored properly:

In the Refrigerator:

• Storage: Place the cooked chicken in an airtight container.
• Duration: It will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Tip: To maintain the creaminess of the sauce, store the chicken and sauce together in the same container.

In the Freezer:

• Storage: You can freeze the creamy honey mustard chicken, though the sauce may slightly change in texture once thawed. Store the chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Duration: It will last 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Thawing: To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce.

what to serve with Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken

1. Rice (White, Brown, or Pilaf)

• Why: Rice is an excellent side because it soaks up the creamy honey mustard sauce, making every bite even more delicious.
• Variation: Try a lemon herb rice or a pilaf with toasted nuts and dried fruits for extra flavor.

2. Mashed Potatoes

• Why: The creamy potatoes work perfectly with the rich sauce, adding a comforting, velvety texture.
• Variation: Garlic mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes would be a great twist.

3. Roasted Vegetables

• Why: Roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add a nice earthy flavor that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
• Variation: Try a medley of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions tossed with olive oil and herbs.

4. Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans

• Why: Lightly cooked green vegetables like asparagus or green beans provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the richness of the chicken.
• Variation: Sauté them with a little garlic and lemon juice for extra flavor.

5. Side Salad

• Why: A fresh, crunchy salad will balance the richness of the chicken.
• Variation: Serve a simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette, or a Caesar salad for more indulgence.

6. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

• Why: Soft, warm bread is always a good choice to mop up the creamy honey mustard sauce.
• Variation: Serve with buttery garlic bread or soft dinner rolls for extra comfort.

7. Roasted Potatoes

• Why: Crispy, golden roasted potatoes pair beautifully with creamy chicken, offering a satisfying texture.
• Variation: Try rosemary or thyme roasted potatoes, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor.

8. Couscous or Quinoa

• Why: Light, fluffy couscous or quinoa makes for a healthy, quick side that complements the flavors without being too heavy.
• Variation: Add herbs, lemon zest, or dried fruits for added flavor.

9. Sautéed Spinach or Kale

• Why: Lightly sautéed greens add a nutritious, slightly bitter note that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Variation: Add a squeeze of lemon and garlic to elevate the flavor.

10. Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Why: Sweet grilled corn provides a smoky, slightly sweet contrast that pairs well with the honey mustard sauce.
• Variation: Add a bit of chili powder and lime for a Mexican-style twist.

Conclusion:

These sides offer a mix of textures and flavors that complement the creamy and tangy honey mustard chicken. Would you like a recipe for any of these sides, or tips on preparing them?

When reheating, you can gently warm it on the stove or microwave, being careful not to overcook the chicken so it stays juicy. Would you like some tips on reheating the chicken for the best results?

This dish is rich, flavorful, and super easy to make! Would you like to try a variation or need ideas for sides to go with it?