Honey-Mustard Chicken

Honey-Mustard Chicken Recipe with Cauliflower and Carrots

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Honey-Mustard Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is sure to impress your guests with its unique and tasty flavors.

History

The exact origins of Honey-Mustard Chicken are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in France, where mustard is a popular ingredient in many dishes. Over time, this recipe has evolved and been adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, resulting in the delicious dish we know today.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of all fat
0.5 tsp salt (optional)
0.25 tsp black pepper
2 tsp tub-style margarine, canola or corn oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 clove minced garlic
1.25 cup defatted chicken broth, divided
2 tbsp mild honey
2 tbsp lemon juice
0.25 tsp salt (optional), or to taste
1.5 cup cauliflower florets
1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
0.25 cup water
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp dijon-style mustard
1.25 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

How to prepare

Cut the chicken into small bite-sized pieces.
Sprinkle with 0.5 tsp of salt, if desired, and pepper.
In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, cook the chicken pieces over medium heat, turning frequently with a large wooden or plastic spoon, for 7 – 10 minutes or until they begin to brown and are cooked through.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside in a medium bowl.
In the same skillet, combine margarine, onion, garlic, and 3 tbsp of broth.
Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 6-7 minutes or until the onion is tender.
If the liquid begins to evaporate, add a bit more broth.
Add honey and lemon juice to the pan with the onions, and stir to combine well.
Stir in the remaining chicken broth and salt, if desired.
Stir in the reserved chicken, cauliflower, and carrot.
Bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the flavors are blended.
Meanwhile, cook the rice according to the package directions.
Combine water and cornstarch.
Stir the mixture into the simmering sauce and cook, stirring, until thickened.
Stir in mustard.
Simmer for an additional 1 or 2 minutes.
Arrange the rice on a large serving platter.
Top with the chicken and sauce.
Alternatively, serve individual portions over rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Add in different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through to ensure it is tender and juicy.

- Adjust the amount of honey and mustard to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables or spices to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey-Mustard Chicken over a bed of rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the chicken until browned and cooked through.

- Simmer the sauce with the vegetables until the flavors are blended.

- Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch mixture for a creamy and rich texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a different flavor profile.

- Swap out cauliflower for broccoli or zucchini for a variation in texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights. Store in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Honey-Mustard Chicken with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 7g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains mustard

Summary

Honey-Mustard Chicken is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Honey-Mustard Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its sweet and tangy flavors, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, this dish is a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Enjoy this recipe for a satisfying and flavorful meal that is sure to impress!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Honey-Mustard Chicken. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of honey and mustard wafting through the air.

Margaret was busy at the stove, basting a beautiful golden-brown chicken with a sticky-sweet glaze. I couldn't take my eyes off the dish as she explained to me how she made it. The combination of honey and mustard, she said, created the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors that coated the chicken in a deliciously sticky glaze.

I watched intently as Margaret demonstrated the process, from marinating the chicken in a mixture of honey, mustard, and spices to roasting it in the oven until it was perfectly cooked and caramelized. The result was a tender, flavorful chicken that practically melted in your mouth.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this recipe myself. Margaret graciously shared her recipe with me, along with some helpful tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. I couldn't wait to try it out in my own kitchen and share it with my family.

As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the honey-mustard marinade, I couldn't help but think back to that day in Margaret's kitchen. The memories of her warm hospitality and delicious cooking inspired me to put my heart and soul into making this dish just as she had.

The chicken sizzled in the oven, the sweet aroma filling the air and making my mouth water in anticipation. I carefully basted it with the remaining honey-mustard glaze, ensuring that every bite would be bursting with flavor.

Finally, the timer dinged, and I eagerly pulled the chicken out of the oven. The glaze had caramelized beautifully, creating a golden-brown crust that glistened in the light. I couldn't wait to dig in and savor the fruits of my labor.

As I sat down to enjoy my first bite of Honey-Mustard Chicken, I was transported back to that sunny afternoon in Margaret's kitchen. The flavors were just as I remembered – sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the friendships and experiences that had led me to this moment.

From that day on, Honey-Mustard Chicken became a staple in my recipe repertoire. Whenever I made it for my family or friends, I would think back to Margaret and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking. The recipe may have originated from her kitchen, but it had now become a cherished part of mine.

As the years passed, I continued to refine and tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touches and adaptations. Each time I made it, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down to me with love and generosity.

In the end, Honey-Mustard Chicken wasn't just a dish on my dinner table – it was a connection to the past, a reminder of the friendships and memories that had shaped me into the cook I was today. And for that, I would always be grateful.