Nothing beats the warm, comforting flavors of the Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe. This dish brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a tangy and sweet honey mustard sauce, accompanied by perfectly roasted asparagus that adds just the right crunch. A sprinkle of melty mozzarella cheese on top takes this meal to another level, balancing textures and boosting flavor with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to be a new favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the zesty Dijon mustard that adds a punch of flavor to the honey’s natural sweetness balancing it perfectly. The fresh asparagus brings vibrancy and crunch, while the cheese adds a creamy, indulgent touch that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking and juicy results.
- 1/4 cup honey: Natural sweetness that balances the mustard’s tang.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that’s the star of the sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the chicken and roast the vegetables for a nice golden finish.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: A hit of acidity to brighten the entire dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Gives subtle, savory depth without overpowering the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed: Tender yet crisp, adding fresh green color and texture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For roasting the asparagus evenly.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional): Melts perfectly atop the chicken for a cheesy finish.
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the asparagus will roast perfectly while you’re cooking the chicken. Preparing a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light grease will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the sauce is smooth and well combined. This sauce is the heart of the Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe, offering the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors you’ll love.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in the juices before the sauce coats the chicken, keeping every bite tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Roast the Asparagus
While the chicken cooks, toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on your prepared baking sheet. Spread the asparagus evenly, then roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until tender with slightly crispy tips. This roasted vegetable brings a fresh, green pop of color and texture that complements the richness of the chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and pour the honey mustard sauce over them, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Let the chicken simmer on low heat for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and cling to the meat, creating that irresistible glaze you’ll want to savor.
Step 6: Top with Cheese (Optional)
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the glazed chicken breasts. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes. This optional cheese topping adds a creamy, gooey layer to the dish, making the Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe even more delightful.
Step 7: Serve
Plate the chicken breasts alongside the roasted asparagus. Drizzle any extra honey mustard sauce over the chicken and add more cheese if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy every warm, flavorful bite at its best.
How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a vibrant green touch and fresh aroma that lightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. For an extra tang, a thin lemon wedge on the side invites guests to add a bright burst of citrus.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy rice pilaf, or a simple quinoa salad. These sides absorb the honey mustard sauce well, making every mouthful a perfectly balanced experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, slice the chicken breasts into medallions and fan them out on the plate over the roasted asparagus. Drizzle extra sauce artistically around the plate and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top to elevate the dish for company or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and asparagus in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate, if possible, will prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.
Freezing
This dish freezes well. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers. Frozen Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe keeps for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken and asparagus gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or chicken broth helps maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the asparagus crisp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! Cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even parmesan work wonderfully to add different flavor profiles while still melting nicely over the chicken.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe without dairy?
Yes, simply skip the cheese topping to keep the dish dairy-free. The honey mustard sauce and roasted asparagus still deliver delicious flavors on their own.
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?
You can, but bone-in chicken breasts will require longer cooking times. Be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
How do I know when the asparagus is perfectly roasted?
Asparagus is done when it’s tender but still has a slight snap, with tips that have turned slightly crisp and golden brown—roasting it at 400°F ensures this perfect texture.
Can this be made on a grill instead of the stove and oven?
Yes! Grill the chicken over medium heat until cooked through and grill the asparagus, turning often until tender and slightly charred. Toss the asparagus in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling for flavor.
Final Thoughts
Once you make the Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe, it’s easy to see why it stars in so many dinner rotations. It’s simple, packed with flavor, and feels special enough for any night of the week. Give it a try, and watch how this cozy, vibrant dish wins over your family and friends with every delicious bite.
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Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese is a flavorful and wholesome meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are pan-seared and then simmered in a tangy honey mustard sauce, complemented by crisp, oven-roasted asparagus topped optionally with melted mozzarella cheese for added richness.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Asparagus
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prepare for roasting the asparagus.
- Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Cook the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Roast the Asparagus: While cooking the chicken, arrange the trimmed asparagus on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly. Place in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes until tender and slightly crisp at the tips.
- Combine the Chicken and Asparagus: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the same skillet. Pour the honey mustard sauce evenly over the chicken, coating all pieces. Simmer on low heat for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and infuse the chicken with flavor.
- Top with Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast if desired. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes until gooey and bubbly.
- Serve: Plate the chicken breasts alongside the roasted asparagus. Drizzle any remaining honey mustard sauce from the skillet over the chicken. Garnish with extra cheese if using, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking if they vary greatly in size.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce.
- Asparagus tips can be trimmed or snapped off naturally at the bend for the best texture.
- Leftover chicken and asparagus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a low-fat version, skip the cheese topping or use a reduced-fat alternative.
