Introduction
If you love the perfect balance of sweet and savory, this Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal! 🍯
Tender, juicy chicken simmered in a creamy honey mustard sauce and served over fluffy rice — it’s comforting, protein-packed, and ready in under 40 minutes.
This dish has quickly become a family-favorite worldwide, combining the flavor depth of Dijon mustard with the subtle sweetness of honey. According to food trend data, honey mustard chicken recipes have seen a 65% rise in home searches over the past year — and for good reason!
Ingredients List
For 4 servings
Chicken
- 1 ½ lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional for extra texture)
- ÂĽ cup honey
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
For Serving
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, jasmine, or brown)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Flavor Tip: Dijon mustard provides sharpness, while honey adds balance — adjust the ratio to your taste!
Timing ⏰
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
➡️ A 30-minute restaurant-quality meal you can make any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
Remove from the pan and set aside.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, don’t move the chicken too early — let it sear to develop that caramelized crust.
Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, honey, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth and bubbling.
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Chef’s Secret: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice adds brightness and balance to the sauce.
Step 3: Combine & Simmer
Return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the sauce.
Simmer for another 3–5 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 4: Serve
Spoon the creamy honey mustard chicken over warm rice.
Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh thyme for a burst of color and aroma.
Optional: Serve with roasted vegetables or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 490 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 33 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 630 mg |
Nutrition Insight: This dish provides a balanced mix of lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats — great for meal prep or post-workout dinners.
Healthier Variations 🥗
- Low-Fat: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream.
- Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream for coconut milk for a subtle tropical twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or wild rice blend.
- Add a side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
- Pair with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Perfect with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Overcooking chicken: It becomes dry — always check temperature.
- Adding cream too early: Can curdle if boiled; add at the end over low heat.
- Using only yellow mustard: It lacks the depth of Dijon; blend both for balance.
- Skipping the sear: That golden crust is key for flavor!
Storage & Reheating 🧊
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 2 months (store sauce separately if possible).
- Reheat: Gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore smoothness.
Conclusion
This Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors — comfort food that feels gourmet. 🍯🍗
It’s fast, foolproof, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing. Whether for a cozy dinner or a meal prep favorite, this dish never disappoints.
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