Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice: A Delicious and Simple Recipe
Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is a delightful meal that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. This dish features juicy chicken breasts coated in a sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce. Served over a bed of fluffy rice, it makes for a satisfying dinner that your family will love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want to impress guests without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice. First, it is incredibly easy to prepare. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this dish. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can put together a delicious meal in under an hour.
Second, the flavor combination of honey and Dijon mustard offers something unique and tasty. The sweetness of the honey balances perfectly with the tanginess of the mustard, creating a sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Finally, this dish is not just tasty; it is also nourishing. Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for a balanced diet. Plus, when served with rice, this meal provides energy to keep you going throughout the day.
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice
Making Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is straightforward. Follow the steps below and enjoy a delicious homemade dish.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the sauce. The mixing should be done until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. This sauce is the heart of your dish, so make sure it tastes good!
Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. You want enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet lightly. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure it cooks evenly.
Cook the Chicken: Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook the chicken until it is golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5-6 minutes for each side. You want a nice brown color for a flavorful crust, but be careful not to overcook it.
Add the Sauce: After cooking both sides of the chicken, pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken. This will infuse the chicken with flavor. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. The cover helps steam the chicken, so it stays moist and tender.
Check the Temperature: It is essential to ensure that the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). This is important for food safety. Once cooked, serve the chicken over the cooked rice, and garnish with chopped parsley if you like. The greenery adds a nice touch to the dish and enhances the presentation.
How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice
Serving Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is simple. Place a portion of rice on each plate, then top it with a chicken breast. Drizzle some extra honey mustard sauce from the skillet over the top, ensuring that each bite is flavorful.
For added color, sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken and rice. This not only looks good but also adds a fresh flavor to the dish. You can serve this meal with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad to make it even more nutritious.
How to Store Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice
If you have leftovers (which is often the case since this dish is so yummy!), storing them is easy. Let the chicken and rice cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days.
If you want to keep the meal for a longer time, consider freezing it. Wrap the chicken and rice tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe bags. When properly stored, they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy your leftovers, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice
Marinate for More Flavor: If you have the time, consider marinating the chicken in the honey mustard sauce for a few hours or overnight. This extra step will make the chicken even more flavorful.
Cook with Bone-in Chicken: If you enjoy more flavor, try using bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. Cooking with the bone adds moisture and richness to the meat.
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce according to your taste. Add more honey for sweetness or more mustard for a spicier kick.
Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add some vegetables to the skillet while the chicken cooks. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work well and add great nutrition.
Use Leftover Chicken or Rice: If you have leftover chicken or rice from previous meals, use them to make this dish faster. Just heat everything through before combining it.
Variations
There are plenty of ways to make this dish your own. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: Instead of chicken, try this recipe with salmon fillets. The honey mustard sauce complements the rich flavor of the fish.
Spicy Mustard Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce for a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Marinate the plant-based protein in the same sauce and cook until golden brown.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
2. What can I serve with Honey Mustard Chicken?
You can serve it with a variety of sides. Steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread can balance the meal nicely.
3. Can I freeze Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice?
Absolutely! It freezes well. Just store it in a freezer-safe container. When you want to eat it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
In conclusion, Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is a wonderful dish that is simple to make and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a meal that your family and friends will rave about. Give it a try and enjoy a tasty dinner tonight!
Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Place a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil to coat the bottom.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken, cover, and cook for another 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving over cooked rice.