Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Chopped fresh parsley

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Delights

I love making Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet for dinner because it's a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that keeps my family coming back for more. The combination of honey and mustard creates a delicious glaze that pairs wonderfully with tender chicken. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also uses just one skillet, which means less cleanup for me! I enjoy serving it with a side of roasted vegetables to complete the meal and make it even more satisfying.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-02-07T23:08:37.153Z

When I first experimented with honey mustard chicken, I was astounded by how simple ingredients could transform into something truly delightful. The first time I made it, the aroma filled the kitchen, and it turned out to be a family hit. I learned that searing the chicken until golden brown before adding the sauce really enhances the flavors and gives a beautiful color to the dish.

The beauty of this skillet dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. I often adjust the honey and mustard ratios to suit my family's taste, ensuring it's just the right blend of sweetness and tang. Using fresh herbs at the end adds another layer of freshness that elevates the entire meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously balanced flavor of sweet honey and tangy mustard
Quick, one-skillet recipe that makes cleanup a breeze
Versatile dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining

Mastering Chicken Cooking

Cooking chicken breasts to perfection can be a challenge, but there are a few key tips to ensure they stay juicy and flavorful. When searing, make sure the skillet is adequately heated before adding the chicken; this creates a nice crust and locks in moisture. Look for a golden-brown color on both sides, which typically takes about 6-7 minutes per side at medium-high heat. If your chicken seems to be browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning.

If you find that your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them lightly with a meat mallet to ensure even cooking. This technique allows for consistent doneness throughout, so you won’t end up with dry edges and raw centers. Alternatively, you can butterfly thicker pieces for similar results.

The Perfect Honey Mustard Sauce

The balance of sweet and tangy in the honey mustard sauce is crucial for achieving that mouthwatering flavor that makes this dish irresistible. Using a good-quality Dijon mustard is essential, as it adds depth and a slight heat that complements the sweetness of honey. If you prefer a spicier flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

When simmering the sauce, aim for a slightly thickened consistency, which usually takes around 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure an even mix of flavors. Look for a glossy finish that indicates the sauce is ready to coat the chicken beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet with roasted vegetables is a fantastic choice, but you can also pair it with grains like quinoa or rice for a heartier meal. Try adding a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad topped with a light vinaigrette to enhance the overall dining experience. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped nuts can add an additional layer of texture.

For a twist on the original recipe, feel free to experiment with the main protein. This sauce works well with pork chops or salmon, simply adjust the cooking times based on the protein used. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, tofu or tempeh marinated and cooked in the same honey mustard sauce can provide a delightful flavor complement.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced

For Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.

Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it in the honey mustard sauce. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2 minutes so the chicken absorbs the flavors.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm with your choice of sides.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard mixture for a few hours before cooking. This enhances the taste and keeps the chicken moist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is straightforward—just warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage. Alternatively, microwave for short intervals, checking often to ensure even heating.

For those looking to make ahead, you can prep the chicken and sauce separately. Marinate the chicken in the seasoning overnight, and prepare the sauce in advance. When ready to serve, simply cook the chicken and warm the sauce, which allows the flavors to meld even further.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable if you're cooking for a crowd. Simply multiply the quantities, keeping in mind that it’s best to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the skillet can result in steaming rather than searing, which will prevent that beautiful golden crust from forming.

When scaling up the sauce, keep the ratios consistent. A good rule of thumb is to maintain a 1:1 ratio of honey to Dijon mustard for the best balance. Always taste the sauce as you go; adjusting as needed will help maintain that perfectly balanced flavor regardless of the batch size.

Common Troubleshooting

If your sauce ends up too sweet, a splash of apple cider vinegar can help balance the flavors. Adding a bit more mustard can also bring the tangy profile back into play. Taste frequently as you adjust to avoid overpowering the dish with acidity or sweetness.

Should your chicken end up overcooked and dry, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the skillet when reheating. This will help reintroduce moisture. Always make sure your chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, using a meat thermometer for accuracy to avoid under or overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well too, they may require a longer cooking time.

→ Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard?

You can use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard as alternatives.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat before serving.

→ What sides go well with Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet?

Roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad pair nicely with this dish.