Picture yourself in a cozy kitchen as the sun sets. The aroma of herbs and chicken fills the air, making your mouth water. This herbed honey mustard chicken is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides elevates the experience. Think fluffy rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Each option complements the dish’s richness.
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Why This Recipe Works for You
This recipe is a gem. It combines the tangy brightness of Dijon mustard with the sweetness of honey. You’ll love the subtle complexity brought on by fresh herbs. Not to mention, it’s easy to whip together on a busy weeknight or for a fancy dinner with friends. Cooking this dish envelops your kitchen in an inviting warmth that’s enticing. And let’s not forget: it’s satisfying without feeling heavy.
My Journey with the Ingredients
I’ve often been in search of meals that are both delightful and uncomplicated. The moment I decided to craft this herbed honey mustard chicken, I found joy in selecting each ingredient. The Dijon mustard? A staple that always adds a zesty kick. The fresh rosemary? A fragrant reminder of summer dinners. And oh, the honey—who knew such a small dollop could bring so much pleasure?
I carefully choose my chicken breasts, ensuring they’re plump and free of additives. The shallot adds sweetness to the mix, while the dry white wine gives it a sophisticated edge. And let’s be real: thickening the sauce with a bit of cream? Total game changer. Each ingredient serves a purpose, playing together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients for Herbed Honey Mustard Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to get this culinary adventure started:
¼ cup Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ cup dry white wine
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 shallot, finely chopped
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon pure honey
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 ½ cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Zest of ½ lemon
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
¼ cup heavy cream
How to Make Herbed Honey Mustard Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Let’s start by mixing the marinade. In a bowl, combine ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, rosemary, parsley, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This tangy mix sets the stage for a flavor explosion. Think of it as the conductor of a delectable orchestra for your chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade. Make sure every inch is covered with this tasty concoction. Seal it in a bag or cover it in a dish. Place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. If you have the time, let it sit overnight! The longer it sits, the more robust the flavors develop.
Step 3: Sauté the Shallots
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil warms, add the finely chopped shallots. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant. This step adds a lovely base flavor.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Carefully add each piece to the skillet, browning them for about 5 minutes per side. You want a nice golden crust. Cooking is like art; the browning process adds depth and character.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Once the chicken is browned, pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; that’s flavor packed! Next, add the chicken broth, lemon zest, and thyme. Bring it to a boil before reducing the heat. Simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
After the chicken is cooked through, stir in the heavy cream. This addition creates a luxurious sauce that binds the meal together. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the sauce is just right, it’s time to serve! Plate the chicken, spoon the creamy sauce over it, and garnish with more herbs if you like. As you bring the dish to the table, prepare for applause.
Nutrition Information
Recipe Notes
Dijon Mustard: This adds tanginess. Not all mustards have the same kick; find one that you love.
Rosemary and Thyme: Fresh herbs shine here, but dried can do in a pinch. Use half the amount if using dried herbs since they’re more concentrated.
Honey: It balances the mustard’s sharpness. Pure honey is best for flavor.
Chicken: Look for organic, free-range chicken. It makes a difference in taste.
Heavy Cream: Thickens the sauce, making it smooth. You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
White Wine: A dry white adds acidity. Avoid sweet wines as they could overpower the dish.
Recipe Variations
Add Vegetables: Consider adding spinach or mushrooms when sautéing the shallots for extra nutrition and flavor.
Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes can bring a bit of heat to the dish.
Citrus Twist: Experiment with adding orange or lime zest instead of lemon; it provides a refreshing change.
Herb Substitutes: Feel free to swap in different herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique flavor twist.
Grill Instead of Sauté: If grilling is more your style, marinate the chicken and then grill it for a smoky flavor.
Make it a Casserole: Add pasta or quinoa and bake it for a one-pot meal.
Herbed Honey Mustard Chicken
Equipment
- Bag, Skillet
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 shallot finely chopped
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon pure honey
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- Zest of ½ lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves chopped
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Let’s start by mixing the marinade. In a bowl, combine ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, rosemary, parsley, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This tangy mix sets the stage for a flavor explosion. Think of it as the conductor of a delectable orchestra for your chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade. Make sure every inch is covered with this tasty concoction. Seal it in a bag or cover it in a dish. Place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. If you have the time, let it sit overnight! The longer it sits, the more robust the flavors develop.
Step 3: Sauté the Shallots
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil warms, add the finely chopped shallots. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re translucent and fragrant. This step adds a lovely base flavor.
Step 4: Brown the Chicken
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Carefully add each piece to the skillet, browning them for about 5 minutes per side. You want a nice golden crust. Cooking is like art; the browning process adds depth and character.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
- Once the chicken is browned, pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pan; that’s flavor packed! Next, add the chicken broth, lemon zest, and thyme. Bring it to a boil before reducing the heat. Simmer for about 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens.
Step 6: Finish with Cream
- After the chicken is cooked through, stir in the heavy cream. This addition creates a luxurious sauce that binds the meal together. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the sauce is just right, it’s time to serve! Plate the chicken, spoon the creamy sauce over it, and garnish with more herbs if you like. As you bring the dish to the table, prepare for applause.
Notes
Rosemary and Thyme: Fresh herbs shine here, but dried can do in a pinch. Use half the amount if using dried herbs since they’re more concentrated.
Honey: It balances the mustard’s sharpness. Pure honey is best for flavor.
Chicken: Look for organic, free-range chicken. It makes a difference in taste.
Heavy Cream: Thickens the sauce, making it smooth. You can substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
White Wine: A dry white adds acidity. Avoid sweet wines as they could overpower the dish.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Once cooled, store in an airtight container. It keeps well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
2. What sides pair best with herbed honey mustard chicken?
Roasted veggies, garlic bread, or even a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette work wonders. You can’t go wrong with mashed potatoes either.
3. Is this dish healthy?
This meal strikes a nice balance. It has lean protein from the chicken and beneficial fats from olive oil. Paired with healthy sides, it can fit well in a balanced diet.
4. Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
Definitely! The marinade works just as well with pork chops or salmon. Adjust cooking times as needed depending on your choice.
5. How long does this dish take to prepare?
Including marinating time, plan on about an hour and a half. However, hands-on time is around 30 minutes.
6. How can I make the sauce thicker if I want?
To thicken the sauce further, let it reduce for a bit longer or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in while simmering.
Conclusion
Herbed honey mustard chicken encapsulates flavor, ease, and warmth. It stands out on the dinner table, making it perfect for any occasion. I hope this recipe finds its way into your kitchen, warming hearts and filling bellies. Whip it up, share with friends, and watch it become a beloved dish in your home, just like it has become in mine!
