Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken: The Ultimate BBQ Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, juicy, and flavorful dish to impress your family and friends at your next BBQ, Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is the perfect choice! This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy mustard, creating a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken, including:

• Why This Recipe Works

• Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

• Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken

• Variations & Serving Suggestions

• Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

• FAQs About Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to fire up the grill and make the most delicious Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken you’ve ever tasted!

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Why You’ll Love This Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Recipe

There’s a reason why Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a favorite at BBQs and family dinners—it’s incredibly flavorful, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

✅ Perfect Flavor Balance – The combination of honey’s sweetness and mustard’s tanginess creates a delicious marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

✅ Quick & Easy – With just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of marinating, this dish comes together effortlessly.

✅ Juicy & Tender Chicken – The marinade helps keep the chicken moist while grilling, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

✅ Versatile – Serve it as a main dish, in salads, wraps, or sandwiches—it’s perfect for any occasion!

Now, let’s dive into the recipe!

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Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Ingredients

To make the best Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

▢ 2 lbs. Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless) – The star of the dish!
▢ 1/3 cup Mustard (Dijon, Stone Ground, Yellow, or a mix) – Adds tanginess.
▢ 1/3 cup Honey – Provides natural sweetness.
▢ 2-3 Tablespoons Olive Oil (or canola/vegetable oil) – Helps with moisture and grilling.
▢ 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor.
▢ 1 teaspoon Salt – Balances the sweetness.
▢ 1 teaspoon Pepper – Adds a slight kick.

Equipment Needed

• Measuring cups & spoons

• Mixing bowl set

• Large Ziploc bag (for marinating)

• Grill (or grill pan)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Follow these simple steps to make perfectly grilled Honey Mustard Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Place the chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag.

• Using a fork, pierce small holes in the chicken to help the marinade penetrate deeper.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Marinade

• In a small bowl, whisk together:

  • Mustard

  • Honey

  • Olive oil

  • Garlic powder

  • Salt & pepper

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

• Pour half of the honey mustard marinade into the bag with the chicken.

• Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken.

• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

• Heat your grill to medium or medium-high heat (about 375°F-400°F).

• Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess.

• Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

• Flip only once to ensure even cooking.

• Brush with the reserved marinade after flipping.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (use a meat thermometer).

• Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

• Brush with extra honey mustard sauce for extra flavor.

• Serve with grilled veggies, salad, or your favorite sides!

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The Perfect Marinade for Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

One of the key elements that make Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken so irresistible is the marinade. A well-balanced marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps keep it juicy and tender. In this section, we’ll break down the components of the perfect honey mustard marinade and how each ingredient contributes to the dish.

Why a Good Marinade Matters

Marinating chicken serves three main purposes:

1. Flavor Enhancement – The marinade penetrates the meat, adding depth and richness.

2. Tenderizing – Acids (like mustard) help break down proteins, making the chicken more tender.

3. Moisture Retention – Oil and honey help lock in juices, preventing dryness.

Key Ingredients in Honey Mustard Marinade

1. Mustard (The Tangy Base)

• Types of Mustard:

  • Dijon Mustard – Smooth and slightly spicy.

  • Yellow Mustard – Mild and slightly vinegary.

  • Stone Ground Mustard – Chunky texture with a robust flavor.

• Why It Works: Mustard contains vinegar, which tenderizes the chicken while adding a tangy kick.

2. Honey (The Sweet Counterbalance)

• Role: Balances the mustard’s acidity with natural sweetness.

• Caramelization Effect: When grilled, honey helps create a glossy, caramelized crust.

• Healthier Option: Unlike refined sugar, honey offers antioxidants.

3. Olive Oil (The Moisture Keeper)

• Function: Helps distribute flavors and prevents sticking on the grill.

• Alternative Oils: Canola or vegetable oil work too.

4. Garlic Powder (The Flavor Booster)

• Why Powder Over Fresh? Blends smoothly into the marinade without burning on the grill.

• Optional Additions: Onion powder or smoked paprika can enhance depth.

5. Salt & Pepper (The Essential Seasoning)

• Salt – Enhances natural flavors.

• Pepper – Adds a subtle heat.

How Long Should You Marinate?

• Minimum: 30 minutes (enough for flavor absorption).

• Maximum: 4 hours (longer can make the texture mushy due to mustard’s acidity).

Pro Tip: Reserve Some Marinade for Basting

Always set aside half of the marinade before adding raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination. Use it to brush the chicken while grilling for extra flavor.

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 Mastering the Grill for Perfect Honey Mustard Chicken

Grilling chicken can be tricky—overcook it, and it becomes dry; undercook it, and it’s unsafe. In this section, we’ll cover grilling techniques to ensure your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken turns out juicy and perfectly cooked every time.

Choosing the Right Grill

You can use:

• Charcoal Grill – For smoky flavor.

• Gas Grill – For even, controlled heat.

• Grill Pan (Indoors) – Works if you don’t have an outdoor grill.

Preheating & Preparing the Grill

1. Clean the Grates – Use a grill brush to remove old residue.

2. Oil the Grates – Prevents sticking (use tongs and a paper towel dipped in oil).

3. Preheat to Medium-High (375°F-400°F) – Ensures proper searing without burning.

Grilling Time & Temperature

• 3-5 Minutes Per Side (depending on thickness).

• Internal Temp: 165°F – Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

• Rest for 5 Minutes – Lets juices redistribute.

Common Grilling Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Flipping Too Often – Flip only once for perfect grill marks.
❌ Pressing the Chicken – Squeezes out juices, making it dry.
❌ Grilling Cold Chicken – Let it sit at room temp for 10-15 minutes before grilling.

Basting for Extra Flavor

• First Baste: After the first flip.

• Second Baste: Right after removing from the grill.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Oven Baking: 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

• Air Fryer: 375°F for 12-15 minutes.

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 Serving & Pairing Ideas for Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Now that your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is perfectly cooked, let’s explore the best ways to serve it! This section covers side dishes, salads, sandwiches, and meal prep ideas to make the most of this versatile dish.

Best Side Dishes to Pair With

1. Grilled Vegetables

• Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers – Toss in olive oil, salt, and grill alongside chicken.

2. Starches & Grains

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and comforting.

• Grilled Corn on the Cob – Brush with butter and paprika.

• Quinoa or Rice Pilaf – For a healthier option.

3. Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad – Classic pairing.

• Spinach & Strawberry Salad – Sweet and tangy contrast.

Creative Serving Ideas

1. Chicken Wraps & Sandwiches

• Honey Mustard Chicken Wrap – Add lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich – Serve on a brioche bun with coleslaw.

2. Meal Prep & Lunches

• Chicken Bowls – Layer with rice, roasted veggies, and extra sauce.

• Salad Jars – Keep ingredients fresh for grab-and-go lunches.

Storing & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months.

• Reheating:

  • Oven: 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

  • Microwave: Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Expert Tips for the Best Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Want to take your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken to the next level? Try these pro tips:

🔥 Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.

🔥 Don’t Overcook – Chicken breasts dry out quickly, so remove them at 165°F.

🔥 Marinate Longer for More Flavor – For deeper flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours (but not too long, as the acid in mustard can start to break down the meat).

🔥 Baste While Grilling – Adding extra sauce while cooking enhances caramelization.

🔥 Let It Rest – Resting the chicken for 5 minutes keeps it juicy when sliced.

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Variations & Serving Suggestions

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Honey Mustard – Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat.

• Herb-Infused – Mix in 1 tsp thyme or rosemary for an earthy flavor.

• Smoky Twist – Add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for a BBQ touch.

Serving Ideas

• As a Main Dish – Pair with grilled asparagus, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob.

• In Salads – Slice and add to a spinach or Caesar salad.

• In Wraps/Sandwiches – Perfect for chicken wraps or burgers.

• Meal Prep – Great for weekly lunches with rice & veggies.

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Nutritional Benefits of Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also nutritious! Here’s the breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Health Benefits

✔ High in Protein – Great for muscle repair & growth.
✔ Low in Carbs – Fits into keto & low-carb diets (adjust honey if needed).
✔ Natural Sweetener – Honey provides antioxidants.

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FAQs About Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

1. Can I Bake Instead of Grill?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, basting halfway.

2. How Long Can I Marinate Chicken?

For best results, 30 minutes to 4 hours. Longer marinating can make the texture mushy.

3. Can I Use Chicken Thighs?

Absolutely! Adjust grilling time to 5-7 minutes per side (thighs take longer).

4. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

5. Can I Freeze Honey Mustard Chicken?

Yes! Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw & reheat before serving.

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Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe is a Must-Try!

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prep. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates an irresistible glaze that keeps the chicken juicy and delicious.