If you are craving a sensational weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, the Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe is here to become your new favorite. Combining the sweet richness of honey with the tangy zest of mustard, these skewers deliver juicy, tender chicken bites with a perfectly caramelized char from the grill. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this dish is simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. These essentials not only bring taste but provide the balance that makes these skewers irresistible.
- 2 large chicken breasts: Choose fresh, boneless chicken for tender, juicy bites perfect for skewering.
- 1/2 cup yellow mustard: This adds a bright, tangy base that cuts through the richness of the honey beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons liquid honey: For that natural sweetness that caramelizes on the grill, creating a sticky glaze.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Garlic adds a punch of aromatic depth, enhancing the savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that amplify all the other flavors and bring balance to the marinade.
How to Make Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Skewers and Chicken
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them for at least 30 minutes before assembling your chicken. This prevents burning on the grill and keeps things safe for handling. Meanwhile, cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, trimming away any fat or gristle to maintain perfect texture.
Step 2: Whip Up the Marinade
In a bowl, mix the yellow mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This simple marinade is the heart of the Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe, giving the chicken its irresistible flavor and glossy finish.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over your chicken pieces, making sure each piece is completely coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, although letting it rest for 2 or more hours (or even overnight) will infuse deeper flavor and tenderness.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
When ready to cook, oil your grill grate to prevent sticking and preheat it to high. Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers, then pour any remaining marinade over them for extra moisture and glaze.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Lower the heat to medium-high and grill the skewers for about 15 minutes total, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks. Close the grill lid while cooking to lock in heat and flavor, and keep an eye to avoid burning the marinade’s sugary glaze.
How to Serve Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro brighten the dish visually and add a fresh, green contrast to the sweet and tangy chicken. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds also adds delightful crunch and nuttiness that complements the skewers perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pairing these skewers with sides like a crisp garden salad, grilled vegetables, or fluffy rice helps create a balanced plate. Crunchy coleslaw or roasted potatoes also work exceptionally well, absorbing any extra honey mustard sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your skewers on a wooden board with lemon wedges for a rustic, inviting look. For a fun twist, try stacking them over a bed of couscous salad or poke bowls, turning a simple skewer into a full-on flavor journey. They also make fantastic finger food for parties, especially when paired with dipping sauces like ranch or a spicy aioli.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any skewers left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the chicken before sealing, and keep the marinade separate to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked skewers by wrapping them well in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep best for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your grilled honey mustard chicken skewers is in the oven or on the grill again to preserve that smoky char and avoid drying out the meat. Heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, turning once.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and tend to stay tender during grilling. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.
Do I need to soak the wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning or splintering on the grill, making both cooking and eating safer and easier.
Can this recipe be made without a grill?
Definitely! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan on the stove. Just keep an eye to avoid burning the honey in the marinade, and turn often to cook evenly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At minimum, 1 hour gives good flavor, but marinating for 2 hours or overnight is ideal for maximum tenderness and deeper taste.
What can I do with leftover marinade?
Since the leftover marinade has been in contact with raw chicken, it’s best to discard it or boil it briefly before using as a sauce.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about making and sharing the Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe, and how such simple ingredients come together to create magic on the grill. Once you try these skewers, I know they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe whenever you crave a blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. So grab your skewers and get grilling—you’re about to impress!
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Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers are a perfect blend of tangy mustard and sweet honey, marinated to perfection and grilled for a juicy, flavorful meal. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue, these skewers are simple to prepare and deliver a delightful balance of savory and sweet in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Wooden skewers (soaked for at least 30 minutes if using)
For the Marinade
- 1/2 cup yellow mustard
- 3 tablespoons liquid honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent splintering and burning during grilling.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into fairly small pieces, trimming off any fat or gristle. Place the pieces in a medium-to-large mixing bowl.
- Make Marinade: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, combine the yellow mustard, liquid honey, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth, then pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, stirring to coat them evenly.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken for at least one hour, preferably two or more hours for maximum flavor. You can also marinate overnight for best results.
- Preheat Grill: Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and preheat your grill or BBQ to high heat.
- Skewer Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, distributing the meat evenly across approximately five skewers. Pour any leftover marinade over the skewers.
- Grill Chicken: Reduce the grill heat to medium-high and cook the chicken skewers for about 15 minutes total, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Cook with the grill lid down if possible until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers is important to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances flavor and tenderness.
- You can adjust the amount of honey for a sweeter glaze or mustard for more tang.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
