This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli is a game-changer for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet and tangy honey mustard marinade transforms ordinary chicken thighs into something extraordinary, while the simple grilled broccoli makes the perfect accompaniment. It’s a complete meal that comes together in under an hour, with most of that time being hands-off marinating!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Incredible Flavor Combination: The sweet honey and sharp dijon mustard create a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the grill.
  • Efficiency at Its Best: Everything cooks on the grill at the same time, meaning fewer dishes and a faster dinner on the table.
  • Nutritionally Balanced: This recipe gives you protein and vegetables in one go, making meal planning simpler.
  • Versatile: Works beautifully for everything from casual family dinners to weekend gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chicken Thighs: Boneless thighs stay juicy and tender on the grill, with more flavor than breast meat. They’re practically impossible to overcook!
  • Dijon Mustard: Provides that delicious tangy kick that forms the backbone of the marinade. Choose a good quality dijon for the best flavor.
  • Honey: Balances the mustard’s sharpness with natural sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelization on the grill.
  • Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and carries the flavors of the marinade into the meat.
  • Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors in both the chicken and broccoli.
  • Broccoli Florets: Choose bright green, firm florets that will hold up well on the grill.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds depth to the broccoli without the risk of burning that fresh garlic might have on the grill.
  • Chives: A fresh, mild oniony finish that brightens up the final dish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

  • Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade for some heat.
  • Herb-Enhanced: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for an aromatic twist.
  • Vegetable Swap: Not a broccoli fan? Try cauliflower, zucchini, or bell peppers using the same grilling method.
  • Citrus Infusion: Add lemon or orange zest to the marinade for a bright, citrusy note.

How to Make Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Combine ⅓ cup dijon mustard, ¼ cup honey, and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a bowl and whisk well. Place chicken thighs in a container or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight will give you the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare for Grilling

Preheat your grill to high heat. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 20 minutes before cooking to take the chill off. This helps it cook more evenly. Mix another 2 tablespoons of honey with 3 tablespoons of dijon for basting during grilling.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

Toss broccoli florets with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil, a good pinch of salt and pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Spread them on a grill pan in a single layer. If you don’t have a grill pan, create a makeshift tray with 2-3 layers of aluminum foil with the edges folded up.

Step 4: Grill Time

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last few minutes, brush with the reserved honey-mustard mixture for an extra flavor boost. Meanwhile, place the broccoli on the other side of the grill, closing the lid between tosses. The broccoli should be done in about 10 minutes, with nice char marks and a tender-crisp texture.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove everything from the grill. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving (this keeps it juicy). Arrange on plates with the broccoli and garnish with fresh chives.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Invest in a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken every time, aim for 165°F in the thickest part.
  • Don’t Rush the Marinade: Even 30 minutes makes a difference, but overnight is when the magic really happens.
  • Control the Heat Zones: Keep one side of your grill slightly cooler for the broccoli to prevent burning while still getting those beautiful grill marks.
  • Watch for Flare-ups: The honey in the marinade can cause flames. Have a spray bottle of water handy to control any flare-ups.

How to Serve

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ways to elevate your presentation:

Simple Pairings

Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice to soak up the delicious juices from the chicken.

Fresh Touch

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a refreshing side dish.

Sauce it Up

Offer extra honey mustard sauce on the side for dipping both the chicken and broccoli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making for a fantastic next-day lunch.

Freezing

This chicken freezes beautifully after cooking. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. The broccoli doesn’t freeze as well, as it can become mushy when reheated.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in a 300°F oven covered with foil until warmed through (about 15 minutes). This prevents it from drying out. The broccoli can be reheated quickly in the microwave or in a hot skillet.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, but they cook more quickly and can dry out easier than thighs. Reduce the cooking time to about 4-5 minutes per side and be vigilant with your meat thermometer to ensure they don’t overcook. You might also want to pound them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I make this indoors?
Yes, this recipe adapts beautifully to indoor cooking. You can use a grill pan on the stove over medium-high heat for the chicken. For the broccoli, roasting in the oven at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes will give you a similar charred effect. Just toss the florets with the same seasonings before roasting.

Is there a substitute for dijon mustard?
While dijon gives the best flavor, you could substitute whole grain mustard for a different texture, or even yellow mustard in a pinch. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile. For a more complex taste, try a mix of dijon and whole grain mustards.

Can I prepare the chicken marinade in advance?
Definitely! The marinade can be made up to 3 days ahead and kept refrigerated. This makes weeknight meal prep even easier – just combine the chicken and marinade the night before, and you’re set for a quick dinner the next day.

This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli recipe proves that delicious, home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The sweet-tangy glaze on the juicy chicken paired with the slightly charred, garlicky broccoli creates a meal that feels special despite its simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or entertaining friends on the weekend, this dish delivers on flavor and presentation every time. Give it a try next time you fire up the grill – I promise you’ll add it to your regular rotation!

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Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken and Broccoli Recipe

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Description

A perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this grilled honey mustard chicken pairs beautifully with charred broccoli for a protein-packed, nutritious meal that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for entertaining.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
  • 1/3 cup + 3 tablespoons dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 to 3 tablespoon olive oil
  • Kosher salt and pepper
  • 4 cups broccoli florets
  • Garlic powder
  • Chives, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Whisk together the ⅓ cup dijon, ¼ cup honey and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Pour it over the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or even overnight. Keep it covered in the refrigerator while marinating to ensure food safety and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
  2. Prepare for Grilling: When ready to grill, preheat the grill to high. Remove the chicken about 20 minutes before grilling to take the chill off. In a small bowl, whisk together another 2 tablespoons of honey and 3 tablespoons of dijon, for basting the chicken while grilling. This extra step creates a delicious caramelized glaze on the chicken that enhances both flavor and appearance.
  3. Season the Broccoli: Place the broccoli florets in a bowl and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle on a big pinch of salt and pepper and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Toss well to ensure even coating. Spread the florets on a grill pan in a mostly single layer. If you don’t have a grill pan, create a makeshift tray with 2-3 layers of aluminum foil with the edges folded up.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill. Grill for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken registers at 165 degrees F. During the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the honey mustard mixture to create a beautiful glaze without burning the sugars.
  5. Grill the Broccoli: While the chicken is grilling, place the broccoli on the other side of the grill, either on a grill pan or foil. Grill with the lid closed, tossing the broccoli every few minutes until it’s charred and golden to your preference. This typically takes around 10 minutes, and the closed lid helps cook the broccoli through while still achieving nice char marks.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken and broccoli from the grill. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in more tender chicken. Garnish with fresh chives and serve the chicken alongside the grilled broccoli for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For best results, allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor penetration.
  • You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying out.
  • The honey mustard basting sauce can be doubled and served on the side as a dipping sauce.
  • If you don’t have a grill, this recipe works well with a grill pan on the stovetop or even in a 400°F oven.
  • Leftover chicken makes excellent sandwiches or salad toppers the next day.
  • For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 385
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 107mg

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