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Dinner · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Cheesy Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

A golden-brown honey mustard chicken breast topped with melted, stretchy mozzarella cheese in a cast-iron skillet.
Prep
Cook
Total
Serves
4
Includes 5 min resting

Tips for success

For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a portion of the honey mustard sauce for 30 minutes in the refrigerator before searing. This infuses the meat with flavor, though you must be careful not to leave it in the fridge for too long, as the acidity in the mustard can change the texture of the chicken if left for several hours.

If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a small amount of cayenne pepper to the honey mustard sauce.

This provides a subtle kick that cuts through the sweetness of the honey and the richness of the melted cheese, creating a more dynamic flavor profile that balances the dish nicely for those who enjoy a hint of spice.

Variations

  • Garlic Honey Mustard: Whisk two cloves of freshly minced garlic into the honey mustard sauce before cooking. This adds a pungent, savory depth that perfectly complements the sweetness of the honey and the tangy mustard.
  • Herb-Crusted Chicken: Sprinkle the finished dish with fresh chopped parsley or chives after melting the cheese. The fresh herbs add a pop of color and a burst of brightness that cuts through the rich, cheesy topping.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely within 2 hours before refrigerating.
Freezer
Not recommended, as the cheese texture and sauce consistency will be compromised upon thawing and reheating.
Reheat
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water, or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature for no longer than 2 hours before placing it in the container.

When storing, try to keep the cheese layer as intact as possible, although it may soften during reheating. Properly stored, the flavors will remain vibrant and the chicken will stay relatively moist.

You can prepare the honey mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. The chicken can be trimmed and portioned ahead of time as well.

However, for the best texture and flavor, it is recommended to sear the chicken and add the cheese immediately before serving. This ensures the chicken remains tender and the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, rather than rubbery from being reheated multiple times.

Serving ideas

Serve the chicken directly from the cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation that keeps the meal warm. It pairs beautifully with simple side dishes that complement the sweetness of the glaze, such as roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a side of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the extra honey mustard sauce left in the bottom of the pan.

For a lighter meal, accompany the chicken with a crisp, refreshing green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad greens provides a nice contrast to the richness of the cheesy chicken.

You might also consider serving it with a side of crusty bread, which is perfect for wiping up any remaining glaze from the skillet once the chicken has been enjoyed.

Frequently asked questions

Can the chicken be cooked in the oven instead of a skillet?
Yes, you can sear the chicken in a skillet and then transfer it to a 400°F oven to finish cooking, adding the cheese in the final minutes. This is a great way to ensure the chicken is cooked evenly if the breasts are particularly thick.
Why is it important to let the chicken rest?
Resting the chicken for five minutes is crucial because it allows the internal juices, which migrate toward the center during the high-heat cooking process, to redistribute back throughout the meat. This ensures every bite remains tender and juicy rather than dry.
Can a different type of cheese be used?
While mozzarella is preferred for its excellent melting properties and mild flavor, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mild cheddar, or even a blend of white cheeses. Just ensure the cheese you choose is a good melter to achieve that signature gooey texture.
Recipe card

Cheesy Honey Mustard Chicken Skillet

Prep 10 minCook 20 minRest 5 minTotal 35 minServes 4
A golden-brown honey mustard chicken breast topped with melted, stretchy mozzarella cheese in a cast-iron skillet.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup dijon mustard
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and dijon mustard until fully combined and smooth. Ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry with paper towels to help with searing. Keep the raw chicken chilled in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts into the hot skillet. Sear the chicken until golden brown on one side, then flip. Pour the prepared honey mustard sauce over the chicken, coating each piece thoroughly. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cover the skillet briefly or place it under a broiler if necessary to melt the cheese until it is bubbly and slightly browned. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure tenderness.
Contains: milk, mustard

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories
420
Protein
32 g
Carbohydrates
28 g
Fat
18 g
Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.
Recipe by Clara Weller (pen name) · Allquickyrecipes · https://recipes.allquickyrecipes.com/cheesy-honey-mustard-chicken-skillet-2/part-3