Snack On Meat

You are here: Home / All RECIPES / Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice

Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice

Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is a delightful dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a fragrant blend of honey, mustard, and spices, then cooked until golden brown and slightly caramelized. The honey adds a gentle sweetness, while the mustard provides a zesty kick that makes every bite irresistible.

Served with fluffy, aromatic rice, this meal is comforting, satisfying, and beautifully harmonious. The rice soaks up the flavorful sauce, making each mouthful full of richness and depth.

Best of all, it’s quick, easy, and family-friendly — perfect for busy weeknights or as a simple yet impressive dinner for guests. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a wholesome, restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & easy: Ready in about 30 minutes — ideal for busy days.
  • Sweet & tangy: The honey-mustard combo is the perfect flavor balance.
  • Juicy chicken: Marinating keeps it tender and flavorful.
  • Versatile: Swap rice for quinoa, noodles, or couscous.
  • Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
  • Healthy & balanced: Packed with protein and carbs.
  • Kid-approved: Mild, flavorful, and loved by the whole family.
  • Great leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day.
  • Flexible cooking: Works with chicken, tofu, or even oven-baked variations.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Total time: 30 minutes
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: approx. 450–500 kcal per serving

🧂 Ingredients

For the Honey Mustard Chicken:

  • 500 g (about 1 lb) chicken breast, sliced into strips
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp mustard (mild or sweet, to taste)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  • 1 tsp paprika powder
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

For the Rice:

  • 250 g (1 ¼ cups) basmati or jasmine rice
  • 500 ml (2 cups) water
  • 1 tsp salt

🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  1. Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Bring water and salt to a boil in a pot, then add the rice.
  3. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes until tender.
  4. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, and fluff with a fork.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, soy sauce, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add chicken strips and mix well to coat.
  3. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add marinated chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Pour any leftover marinade into the pan and simmer briefly to thicken and glaze the chicken.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Divide the rice onto plates.
  2. Spoon the honey mustard chicken on top.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy!

🥗 Serving Ideas

  • With a fresh green salad on the side.
  • Add a splash of lime juice for brightness.
  • Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for crunch.
  • Pair with steamed veggies like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
  • Serve in a rice bowl topped with avocado slices for a modern twist.
  • Add chili flakes for extra heat.
  • Enjoy with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

💡 Tips & Tricks

  • Marinate longer: For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  • Extra sweetness: Add a touch of maple syrup for a richer glaze.
  • Make it spicy: Stir in a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili powder.
  • Crispier texture: Lightly coat chicken in flour before cooking.
  • Creamy sauce: Add a splash of cream at the end for a silky finish.
  • Vegan option: Substitute chicken with tofu or seitan.
  • Healthy twist: Use brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
  • Meal prep friendly: Stores well and reheats beautifully.

🍱 Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store chicken and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2–3 months in sealed freezer bags.
  • Reheat:
    • Stovetop: Warm with a splash of water or broth over medium heat.
    • Oven: 150–180°C (300–350°F) for 10–15 minutes.
    • Microwave: 1–2 minutes on medium, covered.

🥣 Variations

  • Spicy Honey Mustard Chicken: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
  • With Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
  • Sweet & Fruity: Add pineapple chunks for a tropical touch.
  • Nutty Finish: Sprinkle with toasted cashews or almonds.
  • Herb Marinade: Add rosemary or thyme for an earthy flavor.
  • Coconut Rice Twist: Cook rice with coconut milk and lime zest.
  • Oven-Baked: Bake chicken at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes.
  • Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

❓ FAQ – Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Chicken breast or fillet cooks quickly and absorbs the sauce well. Thighs can be used for extra juiciness.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan and prepare the same way.

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Absolutely. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20–25 minutes until golden.

What type of rice works best?
Basmati, jasmine, or even brown rice all pair beautifully with the honey mustard sauce.

How can I thicken the sauce?
Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 2 tsp water and stir it into the sauce, simmering briefly until thickened.

🍯 In Summary

This Honey Mustard Chicken with Rice is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory — a quick and comforting meal that feels special without the effort. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and maximum flavor make it a weeknight winner every time.