Are you ready to whip up a dish that’s easy and tasty? This Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet combines juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet-tangy sauce in one pan. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting meal. Plus, you can enjoy a burst of flavor with fresh veggies and spices. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that’s sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and halved
– ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
The key to a great Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet is in the ingredients. First, the chicken gives us protein. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook fast and stay juicy.
Next, we add brown rice. It has a nuttier flavor than white rice. Plus, it adds fiber to our meal. Rinsing the rice helps remove extra starch, making it less sticky.
Now, let’s talk about the honey mustard sauce. I mix honey and Dijon mustard. This mix offers a sweet and tangy taste that pairs perfectly with chicken.
For seasoning, I use garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. These spices add depth and warmth. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors.
Fresh green beans brighten the dish. They add color and crunch. Finally, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It gives a fresh taste and makes the dish look pretty.
Using quality ingredients makes this dish shine. Each element plays a part in creating a tasty, balanced meal. You can find the full recipe above to guide you through each step.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Prepare chicken and seasoning: Start with 1 pound of boneless chicken. Cut it into small pieces. In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Coat the chicken with this spice mix. Make sure each piece gets covered well.
– Rinse and toast the rice: Measure 1 cup of brown rice. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. In your skillet, add the rinsed rice. Stir it for 1-2 minutes to toast it slightly. This brings out the nutty flavor.
Cooking Process
– Sauté chicken: Now, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook it for 5-7 minutes, stirring often. The chicken should turn light golden and be fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
– Combine ingredients and cook rice: In the same skillet, add 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Pour in 3 tablespoons of honey and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Stir well to mix. Add the toasted rice into the broth mixture. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
– Add green beans and finish the dish: After 20 minutes, check the rice. If it’s tender and the liquid is absorbed, add 1 cup of trimmed and halved green beans. Stir them in and re-cover the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes. Finally, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix gently. Heat everything for 2-3 more minutes.
This simple process leads to a warm, tasty meal that brings joy to any table. If you want a detailed recipe, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– How to avoid overcooking chicken: To keep chicken juicy, cook it until it reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for best results. This will ensure the chicken stays tender and full of flavor. Avoid cooking it too long, as it can dry out quickly.
– Tips for perfectly cooked rice: Rinse your brown rice well before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps it cook evenly. Use the right amount of broth; too much can make rice mushy. Follow the simmer time closely, and let it rest covered after cooking for a fluffy texture.
Serving Suggestions
– Plating options: Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a rustic look. If you prefer, plate the chicken and rice in bowls. Drizzle extra honey on top and garnish with parsley for a beautiful finish. This adds a nice touch and enhances the dish’s appeal.
– Ideal sides to pair with the dish: This meal pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. A light cucumber salad adds crunch and freshness. Alternatively, some crusty bread can round out the meal, soaking up any extra sauce. Enjoy the mix of flavors and textures!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can tweak this recipe for your taste.
– Brown rice alternatives: If you want a quicker cook time, use white rice or quinoa. They both absorb flavors well and cook faster. Just remember to adjust the liquid and cooking time.
– Chicken substitutes: Try turkey breast or tofu for a different protein. Both options work well with the honey mustard sauce. They absorb flavors nicely and provide a tasty change.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding some extra elements can give your dish a fun twist.
– Additions for extra flavor: Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes. These will add a nice zing and a bit of heat. A tablespoon of soy sauce can also deepen the flavor profile.
– Switching up vegetables: Feel free to swap in other veggies. Peas, bell peppers, or carrots work great. They add color and nutrients while keeping things fresh and exciting.
For the full experience, check the Full Recipe and explore more ways to enhance your cooking!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken and rice fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the flavors may fade, and the rice may dry out.
Reheating Instructions
For the best way to reheat, use a skillet. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. Heat it over medium-low heat. This helps keep the chicken moist. Stir often to avoid sticking. You can also use a microwave. Just cover the dish with a lid or wrap to trap steam. Heat in short bursts, checking to keep it warm. This helps you maintain both flavor and texture. Enjoy your meal just as much as when it was fresh!
FAQs
Common Questions
How long does it take to cook?
It takes about 35 minutes to cook Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time.
What can I serve with Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet?
You can serve this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad pairs well, adding freshness to the meal.
Recipe-Specific Clarifications
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead. Cook it fully, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. This makes for quick dinners!
Is it possible to freeze Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just cool the dish completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
Nutritional Information
Caloric content per serving
Each serving of Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet has about 400 calories. This can vary based on portion sizes and ingredients used.
Dietary modifications for the recipe
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rice and ensure your mustard is gluten-free. You can also replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian meal.
In this post, we explored a tasty Honey Mustard Chicken and Rice Skillet recipe. I shared key ingredients like chicken, rice, and honey mustard sauce. You learned how to prepare, cook, and season this dish for the best flavors. We also discussed tips for cooking and ways to store leftovers.
As you try this recipe, remember to enjoy your cooking journey. Feel free to make it your own with different ingredients or spice levels. I hope your meal is great and brings joy to your table.
