This homemade Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced with warm spices. The smooth blend of mustard and honey coats chicken, salmon, or veggies beautifully, giving every bite a rich, flavorful finish. A touch of apple cider vinegar brings brightness. Olive oil adds richness. This combination creates a delicious glossy coating that caramelizes as it cooks.
Garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cayenne add deeper layers of flavor without overpowering the classic honey-mustard taste. It’s quick to mix, incredibly versatile, and made with simple pantry staples. This recipe is perfect for easy weeknight meals. You can marinate proteins with it. It’s also great for glazing roasted vegetables or using it as a dip.
Ingredients for Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
- ▢ 4 pieces chicken breast about 1 lb
- ▢ ⅓ cup mustard
- ▢ ¼ cup honey
- ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
- ▢ 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ▢ 1 teaspoon paprika
- ▢ ½ teaspoon each, salt & pepper
- ▢ ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions for Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
- Add (mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper) into a small bowl. Mix the ingredients well.
- Place the chicken and marinade into a ziploc plastic storage bag. Squeeze out all of the air. Seal it securely.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken for a minute or two.
- For best results allow the chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Suggestions:
- After marinating, grill, bake, airfry or pan-sear the chicken to perfection. Serve it with fresh vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful meal!
- Enjoy your delicious, tropical-inspired Honey Mustard chicken!
Notes
This marinade makes roughly 11 tablespoons or ⅔ cup of marinade. I’m using two chicken breasts weighing 1 pound. But this marinade easily accommodates 1 ½ pounds of chicken. Use ½ cup of marinade per pound of chicken.
Flattening chicken breasts is best for quick and even cooking on the grill. Put your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic cling film. Use a meat mallet or tenderizer to pound them with the flat side. Start at the center of the chicken breast and work your way toward the edges.
Serving suggestions for Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade recipe:
- With roasted or steamed vegetables: Toss carrots, broccoli, or green beans with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Serve them alongside the glazed chicken.
- Over rice or quinoa: Drizzle extra honey mustard sauce. Use it over fluffy white, brown, or wild rice. You can also use a bed of quinoa for a wholesome meal.
- With mashed or roasted potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or crispy roasted potato wedges complement the sweet-tangy glaze perfectly.
- In sandwiches or wraps: Slice the cooked chicken. Layer it in a wrap or sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and extra honey mustard. This makes for a quick lunch.
- With a fresh salad: Serve the chicken atop a crisp green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
- As a dipping choice: Reserve a little sauce to serve as a dip for chicken bites, fries, or roasted veggies.
Grilling Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
Grilling Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is an excellent method to infuse that smoky flavor. It keeps the meat juicy and tender. Here’s how to grill the marinated Honey Mustard Chicken to perfection:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). Make sure the grates are clean.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can brush the chicken lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through. Check that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Create Grill Marks: Avoid flipping the chicken too often. Let it sear for a few minutes on each side to develop nice grill marks.
- Optional Glazing: Brush the chicken with any remaining marinade during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Make sure the marinade has been cooked. This step adds extra flavor.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil and serve with sides like rice, naan, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the smokey, spiced flavor of your grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade!
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
- Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the grill temperature. Too high can cause the marinade to burn before the chicken cooks through.
- Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures you cook the chicken to the perfect internal temperature.
Grilling adds a delightful char. It enhances the flavors of your Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade. This makes it a favorite at summer barbecues or family dinners!
Baking Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
Baking Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is an excellent way to achieve tender, flavorful meat. This method keeps the cooking process simple and hands-off. Here’s how to bake your marinated Honey Mustard Chicken to perfection:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly while allowing the marinade to caramelize slightly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken out of the Ziploc bag. Place the pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. You can brush a little olive oil over the top of the chicken. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 – 35 minutes. The exact baking time depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Chicken breasts typically take about 25 – 30 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to confirm accuracy. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Broil for Extra Color (Optional): Switch the oven to the broil setting. This will give the chicken a nice golden color. Do this for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
- Rest: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy with rice, naan, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
- Even Cooking: If using different cuts of chicken, try to use pieces of similar size to guarantee even cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish. Roast them alongside the chicken for a full meal.
- Cover If Necessary: If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will allow it to cook through without burning.
Baking your Honey Mustard Chicken enhances its rich flavors. It also allows easy preparation for a delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion! Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen as it bakes.
Sautéing Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
Sautéing is a quick and flavorful method for cooking Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade. It allows the spices to bloom. This method ensures the spices fully infuse the meat. Here’s how to sauté your marinated Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade for a delicious meal:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Add Aromatics (Optional): If using onions or bell peppers, add them to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. They will become fragrant.
- Sauté the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, leaving enough space between pieces for even cooking. You need to do this in batches if your skillet is not large enough.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. Continue until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. If the chicken pieces are thick, reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pan to allow the insides to cook through. This prevents burning the outsides.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Finish Cooking: If desired, add a splash of coconut milk. You can also use some water to deglaze the pan. This will create a sauce. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor. Let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve your sautéed Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or vegetables for a full meal.
Tips for Perfectly Sautéed Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
- Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking. This will help to avoid some pieces being overcooked while others are still under cooked.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sauté. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving. You want to add a pinch of salt. Consider adding extra spices depending on your preference.
Sautéing Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is a quick and effective way to create a deliciously spiced dish packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful addition to your meal prep! Enjoy every bite of this savory delight.
Video
Air Frying Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
Air frying Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is quick and efficient. This method yields juicy, flavorful results. The chicken will have a crispy exterior. Here’s how to prepare your marinated Honey Mustard Chicken in the air fryer:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can lightly spray the chicken pieces with olive oil for a crispier texture.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd. If necessary, cook in batches to guarantee proper airflow and even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken:
- Cook the chicken for about 15 – 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
- For chicken breasts, check for doneness around the 15 -minute mark.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to guarantee accuracy. The exterior should be nicely browned and crispy.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your air-fried Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Tips for Perfectly Air-Fried Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
- Prevent Sticking: If your air fryer basket is prone to sticking, use parchment paper designed for air fryers. Alternatively, spray it lightly with oil.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Temperature: If you like a more intense char, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Do this for the last few minutes of cooking.
Air frying your Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is a healthier choice that requires less oil. It results in a deliciously tender and crispy meal. This cooking method is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests! Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite.
Frequently Asking Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes! It works great with pork chops, salmon, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian choice. Adjust marinating time according to the protein.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best flavor, marinate at least 30 minutes. You can go up to 4 hours in the fridge. Avoid overnight marination to prevent the acid from breaking down the chicken too much.
3. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! The marinade can be made 3–5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
4. Can I bake instead of pan-searing?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it. Bake for 20–25 minutes until fully cooked.
5. Can I use only one type of mustard?
You can, but using a mix of Dijon, yellow, and wholegrain mustards gives the dish its signature depth and flavor.
6. How do I make the sauce thicker?
After cooking the chicken, pour the pan juices into a small saucepan. Simmer the juices over medium heat for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Is this recipe spicy?
Not really — it’s mostly sweet and tangy. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you want some heat.
Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade
This homemade Honey Mustard Chicken Marinade is sweet, tangy, and perfectly balanced with warm spices. The smooth blend of mustard and honey coats chicken, salmon, or veggies beautifully, giving every bite a rich, flavorful finish. A touch of apple cider vinegar brings brightness. Olive oil adds richness. This combination creates a delicious glossy coating that caramelizes as it cooks.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken breast about 1 lb
- ⅓ cup mustard
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Add (mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper) into a small bowl. Mix the ingredients well.
- Place the chicken and marinade into a ziploc plastic storage bag. Squeeze out all of the air. Seal it securely.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken for a minute or two.
- For best results allow the chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Suggestions:
- After marinating, grill, bake, airfry or pan-sear the chicken to perfection. Serve it with fresh vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful meal!
- Enjoy your delicious, tropical-inspired Honey Mustard chicken!
Notes
This marinade makes roughly 11 tablespoons or ⅔ cup of marinade. I'm using two chicken breasts weighing 1 pound. But this marinade easily accommodates 1 ½ pounds of chicken. Use ½ cup of marinade per pound of chicken.
Flattening chicken breasts is best for quick and even cooking on the grill. Put your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic cling film. Use a meat mallet or tenderizer to pound them with the flat side. Start at the center of the chicken breast and work your way toward the edges.
Notes
- Use a mix of mustards for the best flavor. Dijon adds sharpness, yellow mustard adds sweetness, and wholegrain mustard gives texture and depth.
- Don’t over-marinate. Because of the vinegar, stick to 30 minutes–4 hours to keep the chicken tender without becoming mushy.
- Sear for extra flavor. Browning the chicken in a hot skillet before baking or simmering creates a richer, caramelized glaze.
- Fresh rosemary is recommended. It infuses a beautiful aroma, but if you don’t have it, use ½ teaspoon dried rosemary.
- Adjust sweetness easily. Add more honey for a sweeter glaze or reduce it slightly if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- Make extra sauce. Double the marinade ingredients and reserve half (uncooked) for drizzling after the chicken is done.
- Check internal temperature. The chicken is perfectly cooked at 165°F (74°C).
- Slice the chicken after resting. Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting to keep it juicy.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 121Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 276mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 2gSugar: 14gProtein: 6g
**Nutritional information on HRCookery is provided as a courtesy. We can't guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on the site. these figures should only be considered as estimates.
