Prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion! If you’re looking to up your grilling game this summer and wow your friends and family, you’ve come to the right place. Honey mustard grilled chicken breasts are a crowd-pleasing classic that’s easy to make yet impressive.
What’s the secret to the most delectable honey mustard chicken fresh off the grill? A perfect blend of tangy Dijon mustard, sweet honey, aromatic spices, and some pro tips to ensure your chicken is juicy and tender every time. Fire up those coals, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour in the honey mustard mixture. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Oil the grates well.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If desired, bast with additional honey mustard sauce during the last few minutes.
- Transfer the chicken to a platter and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Pro Tips
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating to ensure they cook evenly.
- Oil your grill grates well to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness—it’s the most reliable way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time. - Let the chicken rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
- Double the recipe for larger crowds or to have leftovers for salads and sandwiches throughout the week.
Substitutions & Variations
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for even more flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Swap the honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Grill lemon wedges alongside the chicken and squeeze the charred lemon over the finished dish for a bright, tangy accent.
- Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of grilling for a honey mustard BBQ fusion.
Storage
Store any leftover grilled honey mustard chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold on top of salads or in sandwiches and wraps.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the honey mustard marinade ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk together the marinade ingredients and store the mixture in the refrigerator for up to 5 days before using it to marinate the chicken. - How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, but no longer than 2 hours. If left too long, the mustard’s acidity can start to break down the meat fibers. - Can I use this honey mustard marinade on other proteins?
Absolutely! This marinade would be delicious on pork chops, pork tenderloin, salmon, shrimp, and even hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant.
The Juicy Conclusion
There you have it – the secrets to grilled honey mustard chicken perfection! With this easy recipe and expert tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to being crowned the king or queen of the barbecue this summer. Serve up this succulent chicken at your next cookout and watch your guests’ eyes light up with pure joy after the first bite. But be warned – they may start requesting an invite to all your future BBQs!
Ready to take your grilling skills to the next level? Check out our other foolproof recipes for the grill, from “Steak Marinade 3 Ways” to “Grilled Vegetable Medley That’ll Make You Forget Meat Exists.” Happy grilling!