There’s something truly special about the combination of sweet and spicy, and that’s exactly what you get with Hot Honey Mustard Chicken. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. It was one of those busy weeknights when I needed something delicious but quick to prepare. As I whisked together the honey, dijon mustard, and hot sauce, I could already envision their delighted faces as they took their first bites. The aroma filled the kitchen, and I couldn’t help but feel excited for dinner. This recipe quickly became a family favorite, packed with flavor and the right amount of kick, making it perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Skillet, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Hot Honey Mustard Chicken Shines

It’s Sweet and Spicy

One of the things I absolutely adore about Hot Honey Mustard Chicken is the flavor profile. The sweetness from the honey perfectly balances the sharpness of the dijon mustard, and the hot sauce adds just the right amount of heat. It’s an irresistible combination that leaves everyone wanting more.

Versatile Cooking Methods

You can prepare this dish in various ways, whether you prefer grilling, baking, or cooking it on the stovetop. Each method brings out different textures and flavors, so you can choose what suits your mood or occasion best. I love the smoky char from the grill, but the oven method is just as delightful.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another reason I love this dish is that it’s fantastic for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it super convenient for busy weekdays. Just let it sit in the marinade for at least an hour, and when you’re ready to eat, it’s practically done!

Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe is always a hit at gatherings. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive barbecue, Hot Honey Mustard Chicken impresses everyone with its vibrant flavors. I often serve it at potlucks, and it’s always one of the first dishes to disappear.

Adaptable to Your Taste

You can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add a little more hot sauce or use a spicier variety. If you prefer it milder, simply reduce the amount. This flexibility makes it a great option for everyone!

Perfect Pairings

Finally, what I love most is how well Hot Honey Mustard Chicken pairs with a variety of sides. From a fresh garden salad to roasted veggies or even rice, the options are endless. You can create a balanced meal that caters to all preferences.

What to Gather for Hot Honey Mustard Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to create a harmonious dish. The combination of flavors in Hot Honey Mustard Chicken is what makes it truly special. Each ingredient contributes to a wonderful balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, making every bite a delight. Here’s what you’ll need:

1/2 cup honey: This adds a natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts the mustard’s tang.
1/2 cup dijon mustard: The key ingredient that brings sharpness and depth to the marinade.

1/3 cup hot sauce: For that spicy kick that elevates the entire dish.
2 lb boneless, skinless chicken: The perfect canvas for absorbing all those delicious flavors.

Making This Hot Honey Mustard Chicken

Cooking Hot Honey Mustard Chicken is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the cooking process!

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, dijon mustard, and hot sauce until well combined. This mixture is the heart of your marinade, so make sure it’s blended nicely.
Pour the marinade over the chicken in a large zip-top bag or dish. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for the best flavor.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, but for the best results, let it sit overnight. This helps the flavors penetrate the chicken.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, prepare your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. If grilling, place it directly on the grill and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If you prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 425ºF. Sear the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium heat for around three minutes on each side to give it a lovely color.

Transfer the chicken to a baking pan and place it in the oven. Bake for approximately 6 minutes or until cooked through.
Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken.
Slice and serve the Hot Honey Mustard Chicken with your favorite sides. Enjoy the sweet and spicy goodness!

Things Worth Knowing

Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality honey and mustard for the best flavor.
Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.

Leftover Marinade: Do not reuse marinade unless it’s boiled first to eliminate any harmful bacteria.

Recipe Notes about Hot Honey Mustard Chicken

Making Hot Honey Mustard Chicken is a breeze, but here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about three days.

Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
Pairing: This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Flavor Boost: Add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.

Garnish: Drizzle some extra honey on top before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Cooking Variations: Experiment with different mustards or hot sauces to find your perfect flavor balance.

What Goes Well With This Hot Honey Mustard Chicken

Fresh Salad: The crispness of a fresh salad complements the sweetness of the chicken beautifully.

Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection pair wonderfully, adding a hearty touch.
Rice Dishes: Serve this chicken over fluffy rice or with a side of quinoa for a filling meal.
Sandwiches: Shred any leftovers and add them to a sandwich with leafy greens and avocado.

Summer Barbecues: This dish is perfect for warm-weather gatherings, adding a unique twist to your barbecue fare.
Picnics: Cold servings of this chicken are ideal for outdoor picnics; it’s just as tasty at room temperature!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and type of chicken you choose. Make sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

The spice level of Hot Honey Mustard Chicken can be adjusted to your liking. The recipe calls for hot sauce, which you can scale back if you prefer a milder dish. Conversely, feel free to add more hot sauce if you’re looking to crank up the heat. It’s all about finding that perfect balance for your palate.

Yes! In fact, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day or two in advance and just cook it when you’re ready to eat. It also holds well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it a great option for leftovers or meal planning.

There are so many delicious options! I love serving Hot Honey Mustard Chicken with roasted vegetables, a simple garden salad, or even some fluffy rice. You could also do a grain salad with quinoa or couscous for something a bit different. The combination of the sweet and spicy chicken pairs wonderfully with fresh, crisp sides.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that truly captures the essence of sweet and spicy flavors. It’s an easy recipe that not only tastes incredible but also brings excitement to your dinner table. I encourage you to try it for your next meal. You won’t regret it!

Hot Honey Mustard Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Hot Honey Mustard Chicken is a delicious blend of sweet and spicy. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Frying Pan
Skillet
Whisk
Baking Sheet
Oven

Ingredients

1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup dijon mustard
1/3 cup hot sauce
2 lb boneless, skinless chicken

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, dijon mustard, and hot sauce until well combined.
Pour the marinade over the chicken in a large zip-top bag or dish.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour.

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven. If grilling, prepare your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
If grilling, place it directly on the grill and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side.

If you prefer to use the oven, preheat it to 425ºF.
Transfer the chicken to a baking pan and place it in the oven. Bake for approximately 6 minutes.
Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes.

Slice and serve the Hot Honey Mustard Chicken with your favorite sides.

Notes

Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months.

Pairing: This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Flavor Boost: Add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
Garnish: Drizzle some extra honey on top before serving for a beautiful presentation.