Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

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🍯 Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

Description

This Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese is a flavorful, comforting, and wholesome dish that brings together sweet, tangy, and savory notes in perfect harmony. Juicy, golden-browned chicken breasts are glazed with a luscious honey mustard sauce and paired with tender roasted asparagus topped with melted cheese. It’s quick enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining.

📝 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 tablespoons honey

  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional for texture)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

For the Roasted Asparagus:

  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese (or a mix)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or thyme

  • Lemon wedges for serving

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Sear the chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

  3. Pour the honey mustard sauce over the chicken and coat evenly.

4. Roast the Asparagus

  1. On a baking sheet, toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

  2. Place the asparagus around the chicken (if using the same pan) or on a separate tray.

  3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the asparagus.

5. Bake

Transfer everything to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus is tender.

6. Serve

Drizzle the pan sauce over the chicken, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 4

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 35 minutes

🧀 Notes & Tips

  • Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it stays juicy.

  • Make it creamy: Stir 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or Greek yogurt into the sauce before baking for a creamier flavor.

  • Cheese options: Try gouda, fontina, or cheddar for a different cheesy note.

  • Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed almonds before serving.

  • Meal prep tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

🧡 Health Benefits

  • Chicken breast provides lean protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.

  • Asparagus is rich in fiber, folate, and vitamins A, C, and K, promoting digestive and immune health.

  • Honey and mustard offer antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Cheese adds calcium and healthy fats (in moderation).

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values)

  • Calories: 390 kcal

  • Protein: 38 g

  • Carbohydrates: 16 g

  • Sugars: 11 g

  • Fat: 18 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Sodium: 520 mg

  • Calcium: 160 mg

❓ Q & A Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
✅ Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully—just adjust baking time (about 5 minutes longer).

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
✅ Yes. You can marinate the chicken in the honey mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

Q3: What can I serve it with?
✅ Great sides include roasted potatoes, quinoa, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
✅ Absolutely. Simply skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Q5: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
✅ Yes! The sweetness from honey makes it appealing to children while still being balanced in flavor.

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