Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

Description

Tender, juicy chicken breasts baked in a creamy honey mustard sauce, topped with melted cheese, and served alongside roasted asparagus. This dish brings together sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in perfect harmony — ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy special meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Honey Mustard Sauce

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard

• 2 tbsp whole grain mustard (optional for texture)

• 3 tbsp honey

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)

• ¼ cup chicken broth

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for richness)

For the Roasted Asparagus

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden (don’t fully cook).

4. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, lemon juice, and chicken broth.

2. Pour half the sauce into a baking dish. Place the chicken on top and brush the remaining sauce over it.

Step 3: Roast the Asparagus

1. Arrange asparagus around the chicken in the same baking dish (or on a separate tray if needed).

2. Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.

3. Sprinkle cheese over both the chicken and asparagus.

Step 4: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to brown the cheese, if desired.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve hot with roasted asparagus on the side and drizzle any extra sauce over the top.

• Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Notes & Tips

• For a creamier sauce, stir in 2 tbsp of Greek yogurt or heavy cream before baking.

• You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts — just increase baking time slightly.

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

• Avoid overbaking to keep chicken tender and juicy.

• Make it low-carb by reducing honey to 1 tbsp and using a sugar-free substitute.

Servings

• Serves 4 people (1 chicken breast + asparagus portion each).

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Values may vary slightly depending on portion sizes and cheese type.)

Health Benefits

• High protein: Supports muscle repair and fullness.

• Rich in antioxidants: Asparagus and mustard offer vitamins A, C, and K.

• Balanced nutrition: Healthy fats, lean protein, and complex flavors.

• Anti-inflammatory: Olive oil, mustard, and garlic help reduce inflammation.

• Supports metabolism: Honey and lemon juice boost digestion and energy.

Q&A Section

Q1: Can I use honey mustard dressing instead of making the sauce?
👉 Yes, but homemade is healthier and less sugary. Use ½ cup of dressing and reduce added honey.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
👉 Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: What cheese works best?
👉 Mozzarella melts beautifully; cheddar adds a sharper flavor. Parmesan gives a salty kick.

Q4: Can I cook it on the stovetop?
👉 Yes, simmer covered for 15–20 minutes on low heat until chicken is cooked through.

Q5: What sides go well with this?
👉 Mashed cauliflower, brown rice, or a simple green salad complement it perfectly.