Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Highlighted under: Clean Eating Favorites
I fell in love with this Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner because it’s not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish has become a staple in my weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a sweet tangy glaze makes every bite satisfying. I've enjoyed experimenting with different vegetables and spices, allowing me to customize it to my family's taste, making it as versatile as it is delicious!
One evening, I found myself with just a few chicken breasts and random vegetables, so I decided to create a one-pan meal. I mixed honey, mustard, and a few spices, and as it baked, the kitchen filled with such a wonderful aroma! It's amazing how simple ingredients can create a dish that feels gourmet and comforting.
I soon realized that not only did my family devour it, but it was also an easy way to sneak in healthy veggies. The chicken gets beautifully glazed, while the veggies become tender and flavorful. I often vary what I add to the pan, depending on the season. It's a recipe that’s truly adaptable!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep with minimal cleanup
- A delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors
- Packed with nutritious vegetables for a well-rounded meal
Chicken Preparation Tips
For this recipe, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is crucial because they cook evenly and absorb the honey mustard glaze beautifully. To ensure the chicken stays moist, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you find the chicken starting to dry out during baking, you can brush on a bit more glaze halfway through the cooking time for added moisture and flavor.
Brining the chicken in a simple saltwater solution for 15-30 minutes prior to cooking can enhance its juiciness and flavor. Just dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 4 cups of water, and soak the chicken before patting it dry and proceeding with the glaze. This helps build a firmer texture and keeps the chicken tender throughout the baking process.
Vegetable Customization
This recipe is incredibly adaptable when it comes to vegetables. While broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots lend a vibrant look and a sweet crunch, feel free to swap them based on seasonal availability or family preferences. For example, zucchini and asparagus are great alternatives that cook quickly and absorb the honey mustard glaze, adding a different flair to the dish.
When preparing the vegetables, cutting them into similar sizes ensures even cooking. Aim for pieces about 1-inch thick for optimal tenderness while still retaining some crunch. You can also add vegetables like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly, keeping an eye on them as they may need an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create the perfect chicken dinner:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your sheet pan dinner:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add in the chicken breasts and vegetables, tossing to coat everything evenly.
Arrange on Baking Sheet
Transfer the coated chicken and vegetables onto the lined baking sheet, spreading them out into a single layer.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy dinner!
Now you're ready to savor this delightful meal!
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding some chili flakes to the honey mustard mixture. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have available, like sweet potatoes or green beans, to keep it fresh and exciting.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken and vegetables the night before and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but also intensifies the flavors of the glaze, making it even more delicious when baked the next day. Just be sure to bake it within 24 hours for the best results.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed container. Reheat in the microwave for quick meals, or place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re freezing portions, let them cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers; they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
You can easily switch up the flavors in this meal by experimenting with different sauces. Consider using teriyaki or a balsamic glaze instead of honey mustard for a unique twist. Adding fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, can elevate the dish with fresh aroma and flavor. Just sprinkle them over the chicken and vegetables before baking for an added layer of taste.
For serving, this dish pairs well with a side of quinoa or brown rice, which soak up the extra sauce beautifully. You could also serve it over a bed of greens for a light, refreshing salad. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving brightens all the flavors, making it an even more enjoyable meal!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add more flavor!
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and vegetables and marinate them in the honey mustard sauce in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
→ What other vegetables work well in this recipe?
You can use zucchini, asparagus, or any other seasonal veggies that you enjoy.
Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
I fell in love with this Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner because it’s not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, this dish has become a staple in my weeknight dinners. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a sweet tangy glaze makes every bite satisfying. I've enjoyed experimenting with different vegetables and spices, allowing me to customize it to my family's taste, making it as versatile as it is delicious!
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Clean Eating Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add in the chicken breasts and vegetables, tossing to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the coated chicken and vegetables onto the lined baking sheet, spreading them out into a single layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy dinner!
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding some chili flakes to the honey mustard mixture. You can swap out the vegetables based on what you have available, like sweet potatoes or green beans, to keep it fresh and exciting.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 33g