Introduction to Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
When the clock strikes dinner time and you're scrambling for something satisfying yet simple, creamy honey mustard chicken is here to save the day! This dish seamlessly combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, velvety honey Dijon sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent but doesn't require a culinary degree.
Why Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken is a Weeknight Winner
- Quick and Easy Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time, which is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup: This recipe only uses one skillet, which means you can spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: The basic ingredients—chicken, honey, and mustard—are pantry staples that you likely already have. Feel free to experiment with different sides like roasted vegetables or rice to elevate your dish.
If you’re ready to make weeknight dinners easier and tastier, stick around for this delicious recipe! For more healthy alternatives, check out guides on meal prep here.
Ingredients for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Creating the perfect creamy honey mustard chicken starts with a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish:
- 2 large chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are the star of the show. Opt for boneless and skinless for ease.
- Salt & pepper: Seasoning is essential for enhancing your chicken's natural flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: A pinch adds a lovely depth to the sauce and chicken.
- Flour for dredging: This helps achieve that wonderful golden crust when sautéing the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for cooking the chicken to juicy perfection.
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided): Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- ⅓ cup chicken broth: This enhances the dish's savory notes while keeping it moist.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: A key player that brings a delightful tang to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the dish perfectly, creating a lovely balance.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: This is what transforms the mixture into a luscious creamy sauce.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to whip up a delicious meal that’s sure to impress even on the busiest nights! Need tips on selecting quality chicken broth? Check out this handy guide.
Preparing Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Creating a dish like Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken at home doesn’t have to be daunting! Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. Let’s dive into the preparation.
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by cutting your large chicken breasts in half lengthwise, giving you four smaller, manageable cutlets. This technique not only reduces cooking time but also ensures that they cook evenly. Sprinkle the cutlets with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder for flavor. Coat them lightly in flour; this will help create a deliciously crispy crust when seared. Make sure to shake off any excess flour so that your chicken doesn’t become overly heavy.
Step 2: Sear the chicken to perfection
Next, it’s time to sear those chicken cutlets. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. The oil and butter combination will give you that rich flavor and golden color. Once the pan is hot, add your chicken cutlets. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Don’t be afraid to adjust the heat if the pan starts to splatter; you want a good sear without making a mess!
Step 3: Create the delicious honey mustard sauce
Once the chicken is seared to perfection, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan (don’t clean it, you want all that flavor!), add the remaining two tablespoons of butter, followed by chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and honey. Stir well to combine and make sure the mustard dissolves completely. This velvety sauce is a game-changer for your chicken.
Step 4: Combine and simmer
Return the pan to medium heat and add heavy cream to your sauce mixture. Let it come to a gentle bubble, which allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. Now it's time to add back in your chicken. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This step ensures your chicken is cooked through and infused with that rich, creamy flavor.
Step 5: Final touches and serving
Give your dish a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. When you’re ready to serve, consider garnishing your Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
With these straightforward steps, you’ll impress everyone around the dinner table with your cooking prowess and delightful flavors. Enjoy your homemade creamy honey mustard chicken!
Variations on Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Different Proteins
If you're looking to mix things up, consider using turkey or chicken ham in place of traditional chicken. Both options deliver a deliciously juicy bite and will soak up that luscious honey mustard sauce beautifully. For those feeling adventurous, try beef. Just ensure the cook time matches the protein you choose. You’ll enjoy a delightful twist on this classic recipe.
Additions for a Veggie Boost
Enhancing your creamy honey mustard chicken with veggies not only adds color but also increases nutritional value. Try tossing in some fresh spinach, roasted broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms for that perfect veggie boost. Not only will this make your meal more vibrant, but it’s also an easy way to sneak in some extra fiber. Looking for more ideas? Check out EatingWell's guide to healthy recipe additions.
Cooking tips and notes for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Creating the perfect creamy honey mustard chicken is all about balancing flavors and ensuring tenderness. Here are some friendly tips to help you achieve delicious results:
- Chicken Prep: Using larger chicken breasts is key. When you cut them in half, you'll get even cooking and more sauce absorption. If you have smaller pieces, simply leave them whole.
- Sauce Consistency: Make sure to monitor the sauce as it cooks. You want it creamy, not overly thick. If it reduces too much, simply add a splash more chicken broth.
- Taste Tests: Don’t shy away from tasting the sauce before adding the chicken back in. Adjust the flavor with a hint more honey or mustard if necessary!
For further insights on chicken safety, check out resources from the USDA. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Pairing your creamy honey mustard chicken with the right sides can elevate this dish into a delightful meal. Here are some tasty suggestions:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve it over fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa to soak up that delicious mustard sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adding a side of roasted carrots, broccoli, or asparagus can bring a lovely crunch and balance the creaminess.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget some crusty bread on the side! It’s perfect for wiping your plate clean.
These combinations ensure satisfaction at every bite. For further ideas on sides, check out this guide on food pairings and meal preparation tips!
Time Breakdown for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Preparation time
This dish requires a brief 10 minutes for preparation. With just a few simple steps, you'll have everything ready to cook. Just make sure you have your ingredients and tools handy!
Cooking time
Once you're prepped, the cooking time is about 20 minutes. You'll enjoy watching the chicken sizzle to perfection while the creamy sauce comes together beautifully.
Total time
In just 30 minutes, your creamy honey mustard chicken will be ready to serve. Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence!
Give it a try—I promise this flavorful dish will quickly become a family favorite. For more time-saving tips and delicious recipes, check out this helpful resource and elevate your weeknight cooking game!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Calories
A serving of creamy honey mustard chicken contains approximately 490 calories, making it a satisfying choice for a main course without tipping the scale too far.
Protein
This dish is packed with protein, boasting around 35 grams per serving. That’s great for muscle maintenance and overall health, especially for active individuals looking to fuel their bodies.
Sodium
With about 800 milligrams of sodium, it’s a good idea to balance it out with fresh vegetables or a side salad. Opting for low-sodium chicken broth can help keep levels in check if you're watching your salt intake.
This delicious and creamy chicken dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a hearty dose of essential nutrients! Get started on this quick recipe to enjoy a meal that’s both wholesome and delightful. For more tips on healthy eating, check out Nutrition.gov.
FAQs about Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Can I use other types of mustard?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for Dijon mustard for its distinct flavor, you can experiment with other types. Yellow mustard will work in a pinch, but it may change the taste profile. If you prefer a milder kick, try using honey mustard. For a zesty twist, consider spicy brown mustard or grainy mustard varieties. Each will give your creamy honey mustard chicken a unique touch!
What can I serve with creamy honey mustard chicken?
Pair your chicken with simple sides like steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or rice. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad with a vinaigrette. A crusty baguette also complements the meal beautifully, perfect for soaking up that glorious sauce!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any creamy honey mustard chicken leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. You can also freeze it for up to a month; just be aware that the texture might change slightly upon reheating. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Conclusion on Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
In summary, creamy honey mustard chicken is a delightful and easy dish perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of succulent chicken and a rich, tangy sauce makes for a comforting meal. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a dinner that impresses without the stress! Enjoy!
Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts boneless, skinless
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Flour for dredging
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter divided
- ⅓ cup chicken broth low-sodium recommended
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare your chicken by cutting it in half lengthwise to create 4 smaller cutlets. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then coat in flour.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Reduce heat if splattering occurs, then set aside.
- Remove pan from heat and add remaining butter, chicken broth, Dijon mustard, and honey.
- Return the pan to medium heat and stir until the mustard dissolves, ensuring the liquid doesn't fully reduce.
- Add the cream. Once bubbling, return the chicken and cook for 5 minutes until fully cooked and sauce thickens to preference.
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