Some chicken dinners take planning—this one does not. Honey Mustard Chicken with Cheese is a simple one-skillet meal that turns everyday ingredients into something warm, creamy, tangy, and incredibly satisfying. The chicken is seared until lightly golden, then simmered in a sweet-and-tangy honey mustard sauce that thickens just enough to coat each piece. A layer of melty cheese finishes the dish, adding a smooth richness that brings everything together.

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This is the kind of dinner you keep in your weekly rotation because it’s quick, uses staple ingredients, and works for kids, adults, and picky eaters alike. The flavors are bold and comforting, and the entire meal—sauce included—is made in a single pan, making cleanup easy and stress-free.

Why This Honey Mustard Chicken Works

• Searing locks in moisture for tender, juicy chicken
• Dijon + honey builds a naturally balanced sauce
• Simmering gently prevents burning and improves flavor
• Cheese melts into the sauce for a creamy, restaurant-style finish
• One-skillet method keeps it efficient and weeknight-friendly

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Honey Mustard Sauce

• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional)
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp water

Finish

• 1 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or blend
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions

How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken with Cheese

Before You Begin

Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.

1. Season & Sear

Pat chicken dry, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Do not fully cook yet.

2. Make the Sauce

Whisk Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, honey, garlic, and water until smooth.

3. Simmer

Pour the sauce over the chicken. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

4. Add Cheese

Sprinkle cheese over the chicken. Cover for 2–3 minutes until melted and glossy.

5. Garnish & Serve

Finish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot with potatoes, rice, or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Buttered rice
• Roasted broccoli
• Green beans
• Garlic bread
• Cauliflower mash

Tips for Best Results

• Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
• Keep heat low once honey is added—prevents burning
• Broil briefly for a bubbly, browned top
• Let chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving

Variations

• Swap chicken for pork chops or turkey
• Add cayenne or hot honey for heat
• Stir in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
• Use dairy-free cheese to lighten the dish

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken—use a thermometer
• Burning the sauce—keep heat at a gentle simmer
• Uneven cheese—spread the cheese evenly
• Adding salt too early—mustard varies in saltiness

FAQ

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes. Boneless chicken thighs are an excellent choice because they hold moisture well and rarely become dry, even if cooked a few minutes longer. They may require an additional 3–4 minutes of simmering depending on thickness.

Can I double the sauce?
Absolutely. Many people enjoy extra honey mustard sauce for drizzling over rice or vegetables. Simply double the sauce ingredients and simmer for a few minutes longer to let it thicken naturally.

How do I thicken the sauce without adding cream or flour?
Simmer uncovered during the last few minutes of cooking. The honey reduces quickly and helps the sauce tighten without any added thickener. If it thickens too much, stir in a tablespoon of water or broth.

Why did my sauce burn?
Honey burns easily over high heat. If you notice browning too quickly, lower the heat and stir the sauce gently. Keeping the skillet at medium-low once the sauce is added prevents scorching.

What cheese tastes best with honey mustard?
Mild melting cheeses complement the sweet-and-tangy sauce well. Mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby Jack all work beautifully. Strong cheeses can overpower the honey mustard flavor.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate for 2–3 days. Cook the chicken fresh for the best texture. Leftovers reheat well on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

How do I reheat without drying the chicken?
Warm gently on low heat in a covered skillet with a tablespoon of water or broth. Avoid high heat or microwaving for long periods, as this can dry out the chicken.

Can I freeze this dish?
Freeze the cooked chicken before adding cheese for best results. Add fresh cheese after reheating.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken with Cheese is the kind of dinner that proves simple ingredients can create something truly comforting. The mustard and honey blend into a flavorful sauce, the chicken stays tender from gentle simmering, and the melted cheese adds richness that makes this dish feel special without requiring extra work. It’s a dependable recipe you can make on a busy night, but it’s still impressive enough for guests. Serve it with rice, potatoes, or roasted vegetables, and you’ll have a warm, complete meal that delivers consistent, satisfying results every time.

Recipe Card

Honey Mustard Chicken with Cheese
Author: Isaac Blogger

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Dish
Calories: ~430 per serving

Before You Begin

Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard (optional)
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear chicken in olive oil 3–4 minutes per side.
3. Whisk mustards, honey, garlic, and water.
4. Pour sauce over chicken; simmer 8–10 minutes.
5. Add cheese; cover until melted.
6. Garnish and serve warm.

Nutrition (per serving) approx.

Calories: 430
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 23g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 14g

Nutrition Disclaimer:
Nutrition information is provided as an estimate only and may vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.