Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon thyme leaves (fresh or dried); Fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Instant Kitchen Favorites

I absolutely adore quick and flavorful meals, and Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet is one of my go-to recipes. The combination of sweet honey and zesty mustard creates a sauce that beautifully coats tender chicken, while simple ingredients come together in one pan for easy cleanup. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving something special without all the fuss. This dish is not only delicious but also beautifully colorful, making it a joy to serve to family and friends.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:25:36.070Z

When I first tried making Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet, I was amazed at how swiftly the delicious flavors meld together. The technique of searing the chicken is crucial; it locks in moisture and creates a beautiful crust. I find that using fresh herbs elevates the dish even further, so I often sprinkle some thyme or parsley before serving.

After experimenting with different mustards, I settled on a blend of Dijon and whole grain for a texture balance that adds a delightful bite. Each time I make it, I love how the sauce thickens, providing a glaze that perfectly clings to the chicken, making every bite satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy flavors
One-pan cooking means less cleanup
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights

The Role of Honey and Mustard

In this recipe, honey acts not just as a sweetener but also as a natural glaze, giving the chicken a beautiful caramelized exterior. The sugars in honey help create that glossy finish you'll want to achieve. Pairing it with Dijon and whole grain mustard introduces a complex tanginess that cuts through the sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. This balance is crucial for making each bite satisfying without feeling overwhelmingly sweet.

The choice of mustards is important; Dijon provides smoothness and a sharp flavor, while whole grain adds texture and bursts of flavor. If you're unable to find whole grain mustard, feel free to replace it with additional Dijon or a spicy brown mustard for a more pronounced kick, just keep in mind it will slightly alter the texture and depth of the sauce.

Cooking Techniques for Tender Chicken

Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, as they can easily become dry if overcooked. To avoid this, I recommend using a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). When cooking, look for a golden brown color on both sides, which indicates they're caramelizing properly. If you're cooking in batches, keep the initial chicken warm in a low oven while the rest cooks to maintain temperature without overcooking.

Additionally, letting the chicken rest for five minutes after cooking will help seal in the juices. This resting time also allows you to prepare your sauce. You can simply cover the chicken lightly with foil while you work on the sauce without losing heat, ensuring a juicy meat that won’t dry out when served.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Sauce

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon thyme leaves (fresh or dried)

For Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and thyme until well combined.

Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Also, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet for a complete meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet is not only quick to prepare but also a great candidate for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. This method retains the sauce's flavorful profile while ensuring the chicken doesn't dry out.

If you have leftovers, they can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This is a fantastic option for busy days when you want to have a homemade meal without the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the flavors of the Honey Mustard Chicken, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables. The caramelized edges of brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes pair beautifully with the sweetness of the honey in the dish. You can roast the vegetables in the oven while the chicken cooks to streamline the process.

For a lighter meal, serve the chicken over a bed of fresh greens dressed with a simple vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will enhance the flavors of the chicken while keeping the meal fresh and vibrant. A sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley on top not only adds color but also freshness that brightens the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great and may add extra flavor due to their higher fat content.

→ Is there a substitute for apple cider vinegar?

You can use white wine vinegar or lemon juice as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Just be sure to cool it completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.