Quick Honey and Mustard Chicken

This quick honey and mustard chicken recipe perfectly illustrates how a delicious, stress-free dinner can come together effortlessly, even on the busiest evenings. The secret lies in clever preparation: while the chicken cooks quickly in the pan, the rich sauce is whisked up with just a few simple ingredients, creating a beautiful balance of sweet and savoury. It requires no lengthy marinating or complex techniques, just a few effective steps that maximise flavour in minimal time. This dish proves that fast cooking never has to compromise on taste or quality, offering a warm, comforting, and practical meal that’s ready in around half an hour. It’s the ultimate solution for quick weeknight dinners.

Quick Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) chicken breast, cut into strips or bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Honey and Mustard Sauce:
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey (blossom or acacia)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 1 tbsp hot water
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 finely chopped garlic clove)
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnishing (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into strips or bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-1.5 inches (2-3 cm). Season evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same frying pan, over a medium-low heat, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and hot water. Whisk vigorously to combine the ingredients well and dissolve the honey.
4. Add Flavourings: Stir the garlic powder (or fresh chopped garlic) into the sauce. Allow to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened and has a syrupy consistency.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the sauce. Gently stir to ensure every piece of chicken is well coated. Heat for another minute to warm through.
6. Garnish: Serve immediately, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired, for a touch of colour and freshness.

Serving & Leftovers

This Quick Honey and Mustard Chicken is excellent served with a side of basmati rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a complete and balanced meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a frying pan over a low heat or in the microwave, adding a tablespoon of water if the sauce appears too thick.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portions.

One Last Thing

Having a repertoire of quick, reliable recipes like this is fundamental for a balanced and delicious eating routine. Our approach to cooking prioritises efficiency without compromising flavour, transforming meal preparation from a chore into a manageable pleasure. Ensure there’s always room for a nutritious, satisfying home-cooked meal.