Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice – Sweet, Tangy, and Comforting

If there’s one combination that never fails to impress, it’s honey and mustard. The balance of sweet and tangy flavors transforms simple chicken and rice into something truly special. This Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice brings together golden-seared chicken breasts, a silky honey mustard glaze, and perfectly tender rice—all made in one pan for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that tastes like comfort in a bowl.

It’s the kind of dish that feels both homey and indulgent: the sweetness of honey mingles with the sharpness of Dijon, a little garlic for depth, and a hint of butter for richness. As the sauce soaks into the fluffy rice, every bite becomes a perfect harmony of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet goodness.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this meal has that restaurant-quality feel with easy weeknight effort. Plus, it reheats beautifully—so it’s as practical as it is delicious.

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Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice (long-grain or basmati)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions:

1. Sear the Chicken:
   Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown (it will finish cooking later). Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Make the Honey Mustard Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and bubbly.
3. Add the Rice:
   Stir the uncooked rice directly into the sauce, coating it well so every grain gets a bit of that honey mustard flavor.
4. Add the Broth:
   Pour in the chicken broth and smoked paprika. Stir gently to combine, then place the seared chicken breasts on top of the rice.
5. Simmer & Cook:
   Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 18–22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Finish & Serve:
   Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice, drizzle the chicken with the remaining honey mustard sauce from the pan, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

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Tips & Tricks

• Use chicken thighs for an even juicier texture and richer flavor.
• Don’t rush the sear: getting that golden crust adds tons of flavor to the final dish.
• Add veggies: stir in peas, spinach, or chopped broccoli during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a balanced one-pan meal.
• Adjust the sweetness: if you prefer less sweet, use 3 tablespoons honey instead of 4.

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Variations

• Creamy Version: Add ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, velvety sauce.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Baked Version: Assemble everything in an oven-safe skillet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes covered, then uncover for the last 5.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple garden salad.
• Garnish with lemon slices or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra brightness.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of iced tea for a refreshing balance.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Add a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the rice, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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FAQ

Can I use brown rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the broth to 3 ½–4 cups and cook for about 35–40 minutes instead.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely—replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

What type of mustard works best?
A mix of Dijon and whole-grain mustard gives the best balance of tang and texture.

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History / Fun Facts

Honey mustard as a flavor pairing dates back to ancient Rome, where mustard seeds were ground with honey and vinegar to make sauces for meats. Over time, the combination became beloved worldwide for its harmony of sweet and tangy. This modern dish brings that tradition into your kitchen—easy, hearty, and full of love.

The combination of rice and chicken is found in cuisines all over the world, from Mediterranean to Asian, making this dish a comforting and familiar meal with a delicious twist of honey mustard flair.