Introduction
There are some dishes that become instant family favorites from the very first bite. This Easy Honey Mustard Crusted Chicken is definitely one of them. Whether you’re someone who cooks daily or only steps into the kitchen when needed, you will appreciate how quick and satisfying this recipe is. It combines a golden crunchy crust with a juicy and flavorful inside. The taste is rich but balanced thanks to the sweet honey and tangy mustard mixture that clings beautifully to every bite of chicken.
What makes this dish especially appealing is that it works well in so many situations. You can make it for a cozy weeknight dinner, serve it to guests when entertaining, or include it in your meal prep rotation. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. It uses simple pantry staples and comes together in under an hour. There’s no need for deep frying or fancy equipment. All you need is an oven and a baking tray.
In this article, we’ll go through the ingredients in detail along with a calorie breakdown, easy-to-follow cooking instructions, tips to adjust the recipe to your liking, nutritional facts, and ideas for how to serve it. If you’re looking for a no-fuss dish that still delivers on flavor and texture, this honey mustard crusted chicken deserves a place in your weekly meal plan.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe uses basic ingredients that you may already have at home. The combination of sweet honey and sharp mustard creates a beautiful glaze while the breadcrumb crust adds that crave-worthy crunch. Below is a table showing everything you’ll need, including the approximate calories per ingredient so you can stay informed if you’re watching your intake.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) | 4 (6 oz each) | 165 per piece |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons | 30 |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons | 130 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 8 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup | 110 |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup | 110 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | 1 tablespoon | 1 |
Most of these ingredients are flexible. If you’re out of Parmesan, for example, you can still make the dish with just breadcrumbs. If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can reduce the amount or skip it. The flavor will still come through beautifully.
Read More: Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the ideal temperature to help the crust turn golden and crispy while cooking the chicken evenly. Use a baking tray and either line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and olive oil. Stir this mixture until it’s smooth and evenly blended. This will serve as your glaze, and it’s what gives the chicken its signature tangy sweetness.
In a separate shallow dish or bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. This dry mixture is what forms the crisp coating on the outside of the chicken.
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps the glaze stick better and prevents excess moisture from softening the crust. Brush each chicken breast generously with the honey mustard mixture, making sure to coat all sides.
Next, press each piece of glazed chicken into the breadcrumb mixture. Coat it thoroughly, patting the crust onto the surface so it sticks well. Once all pieces are coated, place them on your prepared baking tray.
Put the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of your chicken. To be sure it’s cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once it’s done, remove the tray from the oven and let the chicken rest for about five minutes. This helps the juices settle and keeps the meat moist. Before serving, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
Read More: Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast for Dinner
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
There are plenty of ways to make this recipe your own without losing the flavor or texture. If you want to add a little heat, try mixing in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika with the breadcrumbs. It adds a warm depth of flavor that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the honey.
If you’re not a fan of Dijon mustard, you can substitute it with spicy brown mustard or whole grain mustard for a different texture and taste. You could even experiment with honey barbecue sauce or sriracha if you like bold flavors.
To make this dish gluten free, replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten free breadcrumbs or even crushed rice crackers. You can also swap out the Parmesan for a dairy-free cheese substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
For a quicker version, this recipe works well in the air fryer too. Simply set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the chicken for around 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of honey mustard crusted chicken contains around 380 to 400 calories, depending on exact portion sizes and ingredient brands. Here is a more detailed nutritional breakdown per serving:
Calories: 380 to 400
Protein: 36 grams
Carbohydrates: 20 grams
Sugars: 8 grams
Total Fat: 16 grams
Saturated Fat: 4 grams
Cholesterol: 95 milligrams
Sodium: 450 milligrams
Fiber: 1 gram
This dish is high in protein and relatively low in carbs, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. If you’re preparing meals ahead of time, this chicken holds up well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Honey mustard crusted chicken is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a well-rounded plate, pair it with roasted vegetables such as carrots, green beans, or brussels sprouts. You can also serve it with a scoop of garlic mashed potatoes or a side of fluffy rice.
If you’re keeping things lighter, a fresh green salad with vinaigrette goes really well with the flavor of the chicken. Another great idea is to slice the chicken and use it in a wrap or sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a little extra mustard sauce.
It also makes a great protein for meal prep. Just pack it with cooked quinoa or brown rice and some sautéed greens for a nutritious and filling lunch option during the week.
Read More: Easy Pan Fried Potatoes and Onions
Conclusion
This Easy Honey Mustard Crusted Chicken is everything a home-cooked meal should be. It’s flavorful, easy to prepare, and uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish is sure to please even picky eaters. The crispy coating and sweet mustard glaze create a delicious contrast that makes each bite unforgettable.
You don’t need hours in the kitchen or fancy tools to make a meal that feels special. Try this recipe once and it might just become your go-to chicken dish. With room for creativity and options for customization, this is a reliable recipe you’ll turn to again and again.