Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

 

🍗 Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

✅ Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Juicy, golden chicken with a tangy-sweet honey mustard glaze

• Tender roasted asparagus with a cheesy, crispy top

• One-pan option for easy cleanup

• Great source of protein, fiber, and flavor

• Family-friendly and great for meal prep

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🧂 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• Salt & freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

Honey Mustard Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard (optional for texture)

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Asparagus:

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, woody ends trimmed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

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

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🍳 Instructions

🔪 1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Dijon mustard

• Whole grain mustard (if using)

• Honey

• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

• Apple cider vinegar

• Minced garlic

• Smoked paprika

Taste and adjust for more tang (add mustard or vinegar) or sweetness (add honey).

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🔥 2. Sear the Chicken

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Sear chicken for about 2–3 minutes per side, just until browned (they will finish cooking in the oven).

4. Remove from heat and place in a baking dish.

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🧴 3. Glaze the Chicken

• Pour or brush the honey mustard sauce generously over each piece of chicken.

• Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of sauce for serving (optional).

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🔥 4. Roast the Asparagus

1. On the same baking sheet or a separate one, lay out the trimmed asparagus.

2. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.

3. Arrange in a single layer and sprinkle cheese evenly on top.

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🔥 5. Bake Everything Together

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Bake chicken and asparagus side-by-side for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temp.

• If desired, broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese and glaze.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Spoon extra honey mustard sauce over the chicken when serving.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme for freshness.

• Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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🧊 Storage & Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the oven or microwave.

• The sauce may thicken slightly in the fridge — add a splash of warm water if needed.

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📝 Tips & Variations

• Use chicken thighs for juicier results.

• Add lemon zest to the sauce for a citrus punch.

• For low-carb: serve with cauliflower rice or a green salad.

• Swap asparagus with green beans or Brussels sprouts if in season.

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🌟 Final Thought

This Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese is a comforting, wholesome dish that checks all the boxes: flavor-packed, nutritious, and simple to prepare. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a family, this meal brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.