This easy grilled honey mustard chicken is an absolute winner! Juicy chicken breasts get a tasty boost from a sweet and tangy honey mustard marinade. Yum!
Sometimes, I can’t resist licking the marinade off the spoon! 😂 Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’re in for a delicious dinner. It’s so simple to make, you’ll want to whip it up every week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here for quick cooking and easy serving. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Dijon Mustard: This is the base of your marinade. If you want less tang, choose yellow mustard instead. For a spicier kick, opt for spicy brown mustard.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness. You can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if you want a vegan option. Both work well, but the flavors will differ slightly.
Whole Grain Mustard: This adds texture. If you don’t have it, just use more Dijon mustard; the flavor will still be delightful.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Lemon juice is a great substitute if you’re out of vinegar. Both add a nice acidity to the marinade.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but juicy results are achievable with the right techniques! Start by marinating your chicken to enhance moisture and flavor. Here’s how:
- Always allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer if possible – up to 4 hours.
- Preheat your grill well; a hot grill sears the chicken quickly, keeping it juicy inside.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too soon; let it rest on the grill for 6-7 minutes until it gets good grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (74°C) is the perfect internal temperature.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, giving you a more tender bite!
Easy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Once it’s on the grill, it takes about 15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Grab a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Place the chicken breasts inside and pour the honey mustard marinade over them. Make sure each piece is coated thoroughly. Seal or cover and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 4 hours for more flavor!
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F / 190-205°C). Use a paper towel or cooking spray to lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they have nice grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and, if you like, drizzle a little extra honey over the top for added sweetness.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your juicy honey mustard grilled chicken immediately with your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or grilled veggies. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute the Chicken Breasts for Another Kind of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more flavorful option. Alternatively, pork chops or even tofu can be marinated and grilled following the same recipe for a delicious variation!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes for a quick flavor boost, but for the best results, marinate for up to 4 hours. Avoid marinating it for more than 24 hours, as the acids can make the chicken mushy.
What Should I Do With Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads, or reheat it gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the honey mustard marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it, as the ingredients may separate over time. This makes meal prep even easier!
