Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

There’s something about the sizzle of chicken hitting a hot grill that signals the start of something good. For me, that sound is tied to summer evenings in the backyard, the smell of charcoal in the air, and the promise of a meal that’s both effortless and incredibly satisfying. This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is the recipe I turn to when I want that perfect balance—a dish that feels special enough for weekend guests but is simple enough for a busy Tuesday. The sweet, tangy marinade does all the heavy lifting, clinging to the chicken and creating a gorgeous, caramelized glaze with just the right amount of char. It’s a recipe that has never let me down, and I’m confident it will become a staple in your grilling rotation, too.

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Ingredients

This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken recipe comes together with a handful of simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. The magic is in how they combine to create a marinade that’s sticky, savory, and packed with flavor.

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Smart Swaps: If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard works in a pinch, though the flavor will be sharper. For a deeper, richer taste, try using whole grain mustard. Maple syrup or agave can stand in for honey if needed. If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice provides that same bright acidity.

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Timing

• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 4 hours marinating)
• Cook time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 22-25 minutes (plus marinating)

Compared to many grilled chicken recipes that require lengthy brining or complicated steps, this version is remarkably straightforward. The active prep time is minimal, letting the marinade do the work for you.

Step-by-Step Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Instructions

Making this honey mustard chicken recipe is a simple process that yields impressive results. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time.

1. 
   

   Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and emulsified.

   
   
2. 
   

   Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour about two-thirds of the marinade over the chicken, reserving the remaining portion for basting later. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. Pro tip: Don’t marinate for longer than 4 hours as the acidity can begin to break down the chicken texture.

   
   
3. 
   

   Preheat the Grill: While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.

   
   
4. 
   

   Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the used marinade. Place chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side for breasts, or 7-8 minutes per side for thighs, until internal temperature reaches 165°F. In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the reserved fresh marinade over the chicken to create a beautiful glaze.

   
   
5. 
   

   Rest and Serve: Transfer grilled chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

   
   

If you love this approach to grilled chicken, you might also enjoy my best ever grilled chicken marinade for another flavor variation.

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 16g

This healthy chicken dinner provides an excellent source of lean protein while the honey offers natural energy. The garlic and apple cider vinegar contain beneficial compounds that support immune health and digestion.

Equipment Needed for Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

You don’t need specialized equipment to make this easy grilled chicken recipe succeed.

• Grill (gas, charcoal, or indoor grill pan)
• Tongs
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Shallow dish or resealable plastic bag for marinating
• Basting brush
• Instant-read thermometer

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Recipe

This honey mustard chicken recipe has earned its place as a fan favorite for several compelling reasons.

• Effortless Elegance: It transforms simple ingredients into a meal that looks and tastes gourmet with minimal effort.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It reheats beautifully and can be used in salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.
• Versatile Foundation: The basic recipe adapts easily to different dietary needs and flavor preferences.
• Quick Cooking: Once marinated, the chicken cooks in under 15 minutes, ideal for quick weeknight meals.

Healthier Alternatives for Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

This recipe is already quite healthy, but you can easily adjust it to meet specific dietary preferences or health goals.

• Lower Sugar: Replace honey with sugar-free maple syrup or reduce the amount by half and add a teaspoon of orange zest for brightness.
• Paleo/Whole30: Use compliant mustard and substitute honey with date paste or omit the sweetener entirely for a savory version.
• Spicy Variation: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade for some heat.
• Creamier Marinade: Mix in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture that still clings well to the chicken.

For another delicious sweet and savory grilled chicken option, try these pineapple chicken kabobs that feature a similar balance of flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides, making it adaptable to any season or occasion.

• Summer Cookouts: Serve with corn on the cob, potato salad, and a fresh green salad.
• Light Meals: Slice over a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Comfort Food Pairings: Accompany with roasted sweet potatoes, steamed green beans, or creamy polenta.
• Grain Bowls: Flake the chicken over quinoa or brown rice with roasted vegetables for an easy lunch.
• Family Style: Present the whole chicken breasts on a platter surrounded by grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.

If you enjoy glazed chicken dishes, you might also love this grilled citrus chicken with glaze that offers a different but equally delicious flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

Even simple recipes can have pitfalls. Avoid these common errors for the best results.

• Skipping the Marinating Time: While you can cook the chicken immediately, the flavor truly develops with at least 30 minutes of marinating.
• Using All the Marinade for Basting: Always reserve some fresh marinade before adding the raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
• Overcooking: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly. Use an instant-read thermometer and remove from heat at 165°F.
• Grilling on Dirty Grates: Clean, oiled grates prevent sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks.
• Slicing Immediately: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling keeps it juicy and tender.

Storing Tips for Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

This grilled chicken stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep and leftovers.

• Refrigeration: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Place fully cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
• Repurposing Leftovers: Shred or slice the chicken for salads, sandwiches, wraps, or pasta dishes throughout the week.

For another fantastic grilled chicken option with a different flavor profile, check out this Easy Applebee’s Fiesta Lime Chicken copycat that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen.

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Conclusion

This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken truly earns its place as a go-to grilling recipe for good reason. It delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, satisfies various dietary preferences, and adapts to countless serving situations. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual weekend barbecue, this recipe won’t let you down. The perfect balance of sweet and tangy with that beautiful caramelized glaze makes it feel special without being complicated.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you. Did your family go back for seconds? Did you discover a new favorite way to serve it? Share your experience in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more marinade inspiration, don’t miss my go-to grilled chicken marinade that’s another reader favorite. Happy grilling

FAQs about Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

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