Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the tangy flavors of mustard with the sweetness of honey, enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe features tender chicken breasts that are cooked to perfection, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The chicken breasts are pounded to ensure even cooking, while the combination of Dijon and yellow mustard provides a complex flavor profile. Honey adds a touch of sweetness, while heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that brings everything together. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable to suit your taste preferences.

What Goes In

2 (12 oz) chicken breasts, halved through the thickness and pounded even
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 1/2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 1/2 Tbsp yellow mustard
3 Tbsp honey
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
3/4 cup + 1 Tbsp low-sodium chicken broth, plus more to thin if desired
1 1/2 tsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 1/2 tsp minced fresh thyme
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 Tbsp minced fresh parsley (optional)

What’s in the Gear List

Meat mallet or rolling pin – For pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
Skillet – A large skillet works best for searing the chicken and making the sauce.
Whisk – Essential for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula – For flipping the chicken and stirring the sauce.

Step-by-Step: Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures they cook evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Spread the all-purpose flour on a plate. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour to prevent a heavy coating.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in the Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, honey, cayenne pepper, and chicken broth.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet along with the minced thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Add Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Return the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional minute until everything is heated through.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the minced fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

Dietary Customizations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta or rice.
Vegan: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative.

Pro Tips & Notes

Ensure the chicken is pounded evenly to avoid overcooking or undercooking parts of the breast.
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of mustard and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to your liking.
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Common Qs About Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken

Can I use other types of mustard?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over pasta for a hearty meal.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you enjoy a kick, consider adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat and add the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

The Last Word

Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken is a wonderfully creamy, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. With its combination of sweet and tangy flavors, it brings a touch of gourmet to your weeknight dinners without requiring hours in the kitchen. Each bite is a delicious blend of taste and texture, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own adaptations, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds!