Honey Mustard Chicken

Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken

This recipe for Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful combination of tender chicken breast pieces bathed in a luxurious honey and mustard sauce. It’s a dish that offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite for many. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 40 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Preparation and Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 600g (21oz) of uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into cubes.
• Carrots: 250g (9oz), sliced.
• Onion: One, finely chopped.
• Mustard: Four teaspoons of wholegrain Dijon mustard, and one to two teaspoons of yellow American mustard.
• Honey: One tablespoon.
• Cream Cheese: 180g (6.3oz) of low-fat cream cheese (not quark).
• Chicken Stock: 360ml (1.5 cups), hot.
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped.
• Seasoning: Salt and black pepper to taste.
• Cooking Oil Spray: I used avocado oil spray.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Carrots:

• Begin by slicing the carrots. Place them in a steamer pan over boiling water and steam until they are slightly tender. This usually takes a few minutes. Once done, drain the carrots and immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water to halt the cooking process. This step ensures that the carrots maintain a slight crunch and do not become too soft in the final dish.

1. Cook the Chicken and Onions:

• Spray a frying pan with cooking oil spray. I prefer using avocado oil spray for its high smoke point and health benefits, but you can use any oil spray you like. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and begins to turn golden brown.
• Add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Cook the chicken pieces until they are browned on all sides. This step is crucial for locking in the flavors and juices of the chicken. The browning process also adds a depth of flavor to the final dish.

1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce:

• In a jug, whisk together the hot chicken stock, low-fat cream cheese, honey, and both types of mustard (wholegrain Dijon and yellow American). Ensure that all the ingredients are well combined to create a smooth sauce. The hot chicken stock helps to melt the cream cheese, making it easier to incorporate into the sauce.

1. Combine and Simmer:

• Pour the prepared honey mustard sauce into the frying pan with the chicken and onions. Stir well to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce. Slowly bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
• Add the steamed carrots to the pan, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the dish. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken slightly. If you find that the sauce becomes too thick, you can stir in a little more chicken stock to reach your desired consistency.

1. Season and Garnish:

• After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.

1. Serving Suggestions:

• This creamy honey mustard chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. I served it with steamed rice and sautéed zucchini (courgette). The rice soaks up the delicious sauce, and the zucchini adds a nice, light contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Other great side options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. The versatility of this dish means you can easily customize the sides to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Nutritional Benefits:

This dish is a nutritious option, providing a good balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken breast is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to overall health. The use of low-fat cream cheese keeps the dish lighter without sacrificing the creamy texture. Mustard and honey add not only flavor but also some health benefits; mustard seeds are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and honey offers antibacterial benefits.

Cooking Tips:

• Cutting Chicken Evenly: To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly, try to dice the chicken breast into similar-sized cubes. This will help in achieving uniform browning and tenderness.
• Steaming Carrots: Steaming the carrots before adding them to the dish helps in maintaining their vibrant color and crunchy texture. If you prefer softer carrots, you can skip the cold water bath after steaming.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick during simmering, don’t hesitate to add more chicken stock a little at a time. This will help maintain the creamy consistency without diluting the flavors.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or a mix of mushrooms. Both options will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
• Different Proteins: This recipe can also be adapted using other proteins like turkey, pork, or even shrimp, depending on your preference.
• Spicy Twist: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the honey mustard sauce.

Conclusion:

This Creamy Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that combines ease of preparation with rich, comforting flavors. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering. The balance of sweetness from the honey and tanginess from the mustard creates a sauce that complements the tender chicken and vegetables perfectly. Try this recipe and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.