Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

A grilled chicken dinner can truly save a weeknight when you want something bold and comforting without fuss. This grilled honey mustard chicken is always a hit in my home – the juicy chicken picks up a just-charred flavor from the hot grill grates, while the generous basting of tangy honey mustard makes every bite bright and craveable. Whether you are meal prepping or firing up the grill for friends, this is a go-to that comes together fast.

I first tried making my own honey mustard sauce on a whim and realized it is so much better than anything from a bottle. Now this is one of my favorite grill recipes to repeat all summer.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breast: Ensures juicy tenderness on the grill Choose pieces of even thickness for best cooking
• Salt and pepper: Adds foundational seasoning Use fresh cracked pepper for a flavor boost
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Create a savory backbone in each bite Choose fresh spices for the best aroma
• Dried thyme and dried basil: Bring subtle herby complexity Make sure dried herbs are vibrant not faded
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness Raw local honey is an excellent option if available
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce Use melted butter for easy mixing
• Dijon mustard: Gives sharp spicy complexity Look for smooth and creamy Dijon
• Yellow mustard: Classic bright tang Select a good-quality yellow mustard for best flavor
• Wholegrain mustard: Offers texture and bursts of flavor Choose a jar with plenty of visible seeds
• Hot sauce optional: Brings a gentle kick and depth Use your favorite style or skip for mild eaters
• White vinegar: Balances the sweet with acidity Plain white vinegar is best for a clean finish
• Paprika: Gives color and smoky undertone Opt for sweet or smoked paprika as you like

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Grill:

Let your grill heat up to medium-high You want the grates nice and hot so chicken develops good caramelization Brush grates with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking

Season the Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels Sprinkle each piece generously with salt pepper garlic powder onion powder dried thyme and dried basil Gently rub seasonings into both sides for even coating Set the seasoned chicken aside while you make the sauce

Mix the Honey Mustard Sauce:

In a medium bowl whisk together the honey melted butter Dijon yellow mustard wholegrain mustard optional hot sauce white vinegar and paprika Whisk until totally smooth and glossy Remove about a quarter cup to use as basting sauce and set aside the remaining sauce for serving

Brown the Chicken:

Place chicken breasts onto the hot grill Let them cook for two minutes undisturbed Flip each breast over and grill another two minutes This initial browning gives the chicken color and locks in juices

Baste and Close the Grill:

Brush each chicken breast thoroughly with the reserved basting honey mustard Close the grill lid to trap heat and let the chicken cook for about seven minutes This step builds flavor as the sauce begins to caramelize

Flip and Finish Cooking:

Open the grill and flip the chicken breasts over again Give another generous brush of honey mustard Close the lid and grill five to six more minutes Chicken is ready when juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer reaches 165 degrees Keep in mind thicker breasts may need a few extra minutes

Rest and Serve:

Remove chicken from the grill Transfer to a clean cutting board Let the chicken rest for eight minutes before slicing to keep juices inside Slice and serve with the reserved honey mustard sauce for dipping

Pin

I absolutely love the rich sweetness that the honey brings out especially when it slightly caramelizes on the grill My kids always linger around the grill when the scent of this sauce fills the backyard and it has turned into a meal they request at every birthday or outdoor party

Storage Tips

Store any leftover grilled honey mustard chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To keep the chicken juicy slice only when ready to serve Warm leftovers gently in the microwave or use cold on salads Squeeze a little fresh lemon over leftovers to perk up the flavors

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs in place of breasts for an even juicier result If you are out of Dijon mustard swap in spicy brown or extra yellow mustard Skip the hot sauce for a kid-friendly version If you only have dried oregano in your pantry it will work well in place of thyme or basil

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is fantastic sliced over a green salad with toasted pecans or tucked into a sandwich with crisp lettuce and tomato It is also great as part of a platter with grilled vegetables and crusty bread For a summer cookout serve it alongside corn on the cob and a cold watermelon salad

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Cultural and Historical Context

Honey mustard sauce is a classic American flavor combination that has roots in barbecue culture It became popular in the eighties as a dipping sauce for chicken but homemade versions like this highlight what fresh ingredients can do The triple-mustard mix in this recipe makes every bite pop and brings together the best of sweet and tangy traditions

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best for grilling with honey mustard?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and soak up the flavors, but boneless thighs can also be used for juicier results.

→ How can I keep grilled chicken from drying out?

Marinate or season the chicken in advance, use a medium-high grill, and brush with sauce as it cooks to retain moisture and add flavor.

→ Can I substitute different mustards in the sauce?

Absolutely! Mix and match Dijon, yellow, or wholegrain mustard according to your taste or what you have on hand for unique flavors.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Check the thickest part with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

→ What side dishes pair well with honey mustard grilled chicken?

This dish pairs nicely with grilled vegetables, fresh salads, baked potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

→ Is it possible to make the honey mustard sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.