Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
Highlighted under: Clean Eating Kitchen
I absolutely love preparing healthy meals that are both satisfying and simple, and this Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner checks all the boxes! The blend of fresh vegetables and the sweet yet tangy honey mustard glaze creates a delightful harmony of flavors. It's the perfect weeknight dinner option when I want to enjoy something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-pan concept makes for easy cleanup, leaving more time to relax!
When I first tried making the Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. The sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce not only coats the chicken but infuses the veggies with a wonderful taste. I use a mix of seasonal vegetables, which elevates the dish while ensuring freshness and color on my plate!
I learned that letting the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes really enhances the flavor and keeps the meat juicy during cooking. It’s a little step that makes a big difference, and it’s something I always do now. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick prep and easy cleanup make it perfect for busy nights
- Sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce elevates classic chicken
- Packed with nutritious vegetables for a well-rounded meal
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing it with flavor. The combination of honey and Dijon mustard not only provides sweetness and tang but also helps to tenderize the meat. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature for a quick prep, but if time allows, refrigerating it for up to 2 hours enhances the flavor significantly. Make sure every piece is completely coated for even seasoning.
For those looking to decrease sugar content, you can substitute honey with a sugar-free syrup while maintaining the same proportions. If you're a fan of heat, consider adding a touch of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick. Just remember to adjust the salt accordingly, as some sauces can be salty.
Choosing and Preparing Vegetables
When it comes to selecting vegetables, feel free to get creative based on the season or your personal preferences. While broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers offer a great mix of textures and flavors, green beans or zucchini could also work beautifully. Just ensure that all veggies are cut to similar sizes for even cooking. Keep in mind that denser vegetables like carrots may require slightly more cooking time.
To ensure even roasting, toss the vegetables thoroughly in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Visual cues such as light caramelization around the edges indicate perfect roasting. If you prefer an extra crunchy texture, add delicate vegetables like asparagus or snap peas to the baking sheet later in the cooking process, about 10 minutes before the dish is done.
Serving Suggestions
This Honey Mustard Chicken can be served on a bed of whole grains like quinoa or brown rice for a filling meal. Alternatively, a fresh green salad on the side can complement the dish nicely, providing a cool contrast to the warm, roasted elements. I also love adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top right before serving to brighten the flavors.
For meal prep, consider making a double batch of the chicken and vegetables. After baking, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, and if you have leftover honey mustard sauce, drizzle it over the top for an added flavor boost.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, chunked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix the ingredients well and let it marinate.
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they're well-coated. Allow to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
Prepare the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Assemble Everything
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated chicken in the center and scatter the vegetables around it in a single layer.
Bake the Dish
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can brown the chicken slightly by broiling for the last 2-3 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Honey Mustard Chicken!
Make sure to keep an eye on the vegetables to prevent overcooking.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, once the dish has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This will keep the chicken moist while preventing the vegetables from becoming too soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish; it can last up to three months in the freezer. Just be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
When you're ready to enjoy frozen leftovers, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture. For convenience, you can also warm it up straight from frozen, just increase the oven time by 10-15 minutes.
Dietary Adjustments
For a low-carb option, you can replace the honey with a sugar substitute and use thinner cuts or filets of chicken to reduce cooking time. Additionally, swap out the starchy vegetables with leafy greens or a medley of cruciferous veggies to keep the dish light yet nutritious.
If you're following a gluten-free diet, make sure that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten as an ingredient. This recipe is inherently gluten-free when these substitutions are made.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use bone-in chicken instead?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the vegetables a day ahead for quick cooking.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard, this recipe is free from gluten.
Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner
I absolutely love preparing healthy meals that are both satisfying and simple, and this Honey Mustard Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner checks all the boxes! The blend of fresh vegetables and the sweet yet tangy honey mustard glaze creates a delightful harmony of flavors. It's the perfect weeknight dinner option when I want to enjoy something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-pan concept makes for easy cleanup, leaving more time to relax!
Created by: Olivia Barrett
Recipe Type: Clean Eating Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, chunked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they're well-coated. Allow to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a separate bowl, toss the broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated chicken in the center and scatter the vegetables around it in a single layer.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can brown the chicken slightly by broiling for the last 2-3 minutes.
Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Honey Mustard Chicken!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 290mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 30g