A Meal That Brings Back Warm Memories
There’s something undeniably special about a dish that reminds you of home. For me, creamy honey mustard chicken takes me back to childhood dinners at my grandmother’s house. She had a way of making every meal feel like a celebration, even on the most ordinary of days. The aroma of sizzling chicken, crispy bacon, and the sweet tang of honey mustard would fill her kitchen, creating an irresistible warmth.
I remember sitting at her small wooden table, eagerly waiting as she finished stirring the creamy sauce. She would always let me have the first bite, a tradition I still cherish today. The combination of flavors—savory, sweet, and just the right amount of tang—felt like a hug in food form. It was a meal that made us slow down, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the simple joy of a homemade dish.
Now, whenever I make this recipe, it brings back those comforting memories. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the power of food to connect us with the past and create new traditions for the future. Whether you’re making this for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this creamy honey mustard chicken will quickly become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This creamy honey mustard chicken is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The seared chicken is juicy and tender, the honey mustard sauce is rich and velvety, and the crispy bacon adds a savory crunch. Here’s why you’ll love making this dish:
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of sweet honey, tangy mustard, and smoky bacon creates a depth of flavor that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Make: This dish looks and tastes like something from a restaurant, but it’s surprisingly simple to prepare at home.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe fits the bill.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild sweetness of the honey balances the mustard, making it a hit with both adults and kids.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken with Crispy Bacon
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- ⅓ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 1½ tablespoons minced garlic (approximately 3-4 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to season
- ½ cup diced bacon (approximately 4 small rashers, trimmed of rind and fat)
- ⅓ cup light cream (or reduced-fat cream; see notes for substitutions)
- 1 cup milk (skim, 2%, or full-fat; almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine honey, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated with the marinade. Set aside.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy.
- Once done, remove the bacon bits and set them aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Using the same skillet with the bacon fat, increase the heat to medium-high.
- Place the marinated chicken pieces in the skillet and sear each side until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once seared, remove the chicken and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium.
- Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Add the light cream and milk, stirring continuously.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the sauce.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the top.
- Allow the dish to simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
- Cream Substitutions: If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the light cream with coconut cream and use almond milk in place of regular milk.
- Mustard Variations: For a spicier kick, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Secrets to the Best Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken
To make this dish truly stand out, there are a few key techniques to keep in mind.
1. Choosing the Right Mustard
Not all mustards are created equal. The best honey mustard sauce has a combination of whole grain mustard and Dijon mustard. Whole grain mustard adds texture, while Dijon brings a smooth, tangy kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow mustard instead.
2. Searing for Maximum Juiciness
One of the secrets to juicy chicken is a good sear. Cooking the chicken in a hot skillet before adding the sauce locks in moisture and creates a beautiful golden crust.
3. Using the Right Cream for the Sauce
The sauce is the heart of this dish, so choosing the right cream makes a difference. Light cream keeps it rich without being too heavy, but you can substitute with full-fat cream for extra indulgence or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
4. Balancing Sweetness and Tang
Honey adds sweetness, but the mustard balances it out. If you prefer a stronger mustard flavor, reduce the honey slightly. For a more pronounced sweetness, add a touch more honey.
5. Crisping the Bacon to Perfection
Bacon adds a smoky depth to the dish. Cooking it until it’s crispy before adding it to the sauce prevents it from becoming too soft and enhances the overall texture.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Honey Mustard Chicken
This dish is rich and creamy, so pairing it with the right sides creates a well-balanced meal. Here are a few great options:
- Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add freshness and a touch of crunch.
- Rice or Quinoa: If you want a lighter option, fluffy rice or quinoa soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A light, zesty salad with a citrus vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good), here’s how to store and reheat them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To keep the chicken tender, reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can dry out the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
3. What’s the best mustard to use?
A combination of whole grain mustard and Dijon mustard works best for depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use yellow mustard.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the chicken fresh for the best texture.
5. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
If your sauce is too thin, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens.
6. What can I use instead of bacon?
If you don’t eat bacon, you can use turkey bacon or omit it entirely. Adding smoked paprika to the sauce can help replicate the smoky flavor.
Conclusion: A Recipe to Keep Coming Back To
Creamy honey mustard chicken is one of those recipes that you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, a romantic date night, or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints.
With the perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and creaminess, it’s a meal that brings people together and turns any night into a memorable one. So the next time you’re craving something hearty yet easy to make, give this recipe a try. One bite, and it just might become your new favorite comfort food.
Happy cooking!
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Creamy Garlic Honey Mustard Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This creamy honey mustard chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Juicy, pan-seared chicken is smothered in a rich, velvety honey mustard sauce, then topped with crispy bacon for an irresistible finish. This dish is easy to prepare and makes a comforting yet elegant meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (4)
- Honey (⅓ cup)
- Whole grain mustard (3 tablespoons)
- Minced garlic (1½ tablespoons, about 3-4 cloves)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (to taste)
- Diced bacon (½ cup, about 4 small rashers)
- Light cream (⅓ cup)
- Milk (1 cup, skim, 2%, or full-fat)
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon, mixed with 1 tablespoon water)
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the diced bacon until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- In a bowl, mix honey, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, and olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and coat it in this marinade.
- Using the same skillet with the bacon fat, sear the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Lower the heat and pour the remaining marinade into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the light cream and milk, then bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cornstarch slurry and stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coat it with the sauce, and let it simmer for 5 minutes or until cooked through.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon and fresh parsley over the top. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk for the cream and milk.
- Use Dijon mustard instead of whole grain mustard for a smoother sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying & Simmering
- Cuisine: American
