Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet

Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I absolutely love making this Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet when I want something quick yet delicious. The sweet and tangy sauce combines perfectly with tender chicken, all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. It’s a crowd-pleaser that my family always enjoys, with flavors that make it seem more complex than it really is. In just 30 minutes, we’re sitting down to a meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s my go-to option for busy weeknights when flavor matters but time is tight.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:02:35.537Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could yield such bold flavors. The combination of honey and mustard really elevates the chicken, making it irresistible. I remember cooking this dish for a last-minute dinner party, and the compliments kept pouring in.

To achieve that perfect caramelization, I recommend not overcrowding the pan. This way, the chicken gets a beautiful sear while soaking up all that sweet mustard glaze. Trust me, it makes the world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess from honey and mustard
Quick preparation time makes it ideal for busy weekdays
All-in-one skillet cooking minimizes cleanup

Why Chicken Breasts Work

Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts in this recipe ensures a quick cooking time, making it ideal for those busy weeknights. They cook evenly, allowing for the honey mustard sauce to infuse its sweet and tangy flavors deeply. When sautéed correctly, they develop a golden-brown crust, enhancing not only the dish's visual appeal but also its flavor profile.

One key to achieving tender chicken is not to overcrowd the skillet. This allows proper browning and prevents steaming. If you have to cook in batches, keep the first batch warm in a low oven until all chicken breasts are done. This will maintain their juiciness and temperature.

Perfecting the Honey Mustard Sauce

The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates an ideal glaze for this dish. The honey brings sweetness that balances the sharpness of the mustard, creating a harmonious flavor. If you're looking for a spicier kick, try using whole grain mustard or adding a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

To ensure the sauce thickens appropriately, let it simmer for a couple of minutes after pouring it over the chicken. Keep a close eye on it; the goal is to achieve a glossy consistency that clings to the chicken without becoming overly sticky or caramelized. Adjust the simmering time if necessary to suit your desired thickness.

Serving and Storage Tips

When serving, a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a pop of fresh flavor that complements the rich sauce. Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up any leftover sauce, creating a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent yet is quick to prepare.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, and reheating in the microwave or a skillet will keep the chicken moist. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in portions for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started with your Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure everything is ready and within reach before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet.

Prepare the Chicken

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard. Pour the mixture over the cooked chicken in the skillet.

Heat the Sauce

Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and coat the chicken.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm, enjoying the delicious flavors.

Enjoy your meal with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with steamed vegetables or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work as a substitute, though it will be less tangy and a bit milder in flavor. For a twist, consider using a honey mustard blend or even mixing in a bit of apple cider vinegar to achieve that tanginess while retaining the sweetness of honey.

Anyone needing a gluten-free option can confirm that Dijon mustard is typically gluten-free, but always check labels. Additionally, for a lower-sugar version, use sugar-free honey alternatives or a mix of agave syrup to get a similar effect without the added sugars.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up for a larger gathering is simple; just increase the quantity of chicken and sauce ingredients proportionally. For a family of six, for example, you can use 6 chicken breasts and double the sauce ingredients. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure each piece is cooked through by using an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F.

If you're cooking for a small group, don’t hesitate to halve the recipe. The cooking times will be fairly similar, and you can always use leftover sauce to jazz up simple sides like steamed broccoli or rice.

Final Touches

To elevate your Honey Mustard Chicken further, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the skillet after cooking the chicken, scraping up the flavorful brown bits from the bottom. This addition can help create a more complex sauce and adds moisture when spooned over the chicken before serving.

For a more savory touch, incorporating sautéed garlic or shallots right before adding the sauce can add depth to the overall flavor. This step is a great way to enhance the dish without much additional effort, making it feel even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will add more flavor to the dish.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then reheat before serving.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.