Grilled Herb Mustard Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful way to elevate your weeknight dinners, this Grilled Herb Mustard Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the tangy bite of Dijon mustard with the aromatic blend of herbs that I find truly transforms plain chicken breasts into something special without hours in the kitchen. Whenever I make this, it’s like inviting a little restaurant magic right into my backyard grill.
This grilled herb mustard chicken recipe works wonderfully for casual family meals or when you want something quick but impressive to serve friends. The balance of dried herbs and mustard creates a vibrant crust that locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy while packing in that bold flavor punch. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll find a new staple in your grilling lineup!
Why This Recipe Works
- Flavor-Packed Coating: The Dijon mustard and herb mix creates a tangy, aromatic crust that amps up simple chicken breasts.
- Juicy and Tender: Grilling with a mustard base helps seal in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy after cooking.
- Quick and Easy: From prep to table in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy days.
- Adaptable and Friendly: Uses pantry staple herbs, and works great with any grill—charcoal, gas, or even indoor grill pan.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient in this grilled herb mustard chicken recipe plays a key role in creating depth and balance. I like that you probably have most of these herbs and spices on hand, making this dish both accessible and special.
- Dijon Mustard: Acts as a flavorful glue holding the herbs and spices to the chicken, while also tenderizing the meat slightly.
- Dried Parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery note without overpowering the dish.
- Dried Oregano: Provides a warm, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with mustard.
- Dried Basil: Lends a subtle sweetness and herbaceous depth.
- Paprika: Offers a mild smoky undertone and vibrant color.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps in moisture retention.
- Black Pepper: Gives a mild heat kick that balances the tanginess.
- Water: Thins the mustard mixture just enough for easy brushing and coating.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The lean protein base that soaks up all the herbaceous and tangy goodness.
Tweak to Your Taste
I love playing around with this grilled herb mustard chicken recipe to keep it fresh every time I make it. Don’t hesitate to swap or add herbs you love or even toss in a bit of heat if that’s your jam.
- Spicy Kick: Sometimes, I throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mustard mixture for a smoky-spicy edge that wakes up the palate.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, like thyme or rosemary, chop them finely and mix in to boost brightness and nuance.
- Different Mustard: For a milder mustard flavor, you can swap Dijon for whole grain mustard for a bit of texture and less tang.
- Marinate Longer: While the recipe works great as-is, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes or up to a few hours (in the fridge) amps the flavors even more.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Herb Mustard Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Herb Mustard Sauce
Start by mixing the Dijon mustard with dried parsley, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, pepper, and water in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. I always stir this well so the herbs get evenly distributed and that lovely tang hits every bite.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Slather a thick layer of the mustard herb sauce all over your chicken breasts. I like to use my hands for this step so I can really feel every nook covered—plus it helps the sauce adhere better. Reserve a little sauce for basting later.
Step 3: Fire Up Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat—about 350°F to 375°F works great. Place the chicken directly on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes total, flipping once halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juicy perfection.
Step 4: Baste and Finish
During the last few minutes on the grill, brush the reserved sauce on both sides of the chicken generously. This step doubles down on that herb-mustard flavor and keeps the surface glossy and appetizing.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Herb Mustard Chicken Recipe
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before applying the sauce, dry your chicken with paper towels for the best grill sear and less steaming.
- Watch the Heat: Medium heat is key to cook through evenly without burning the mustard crust.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: I always rely on one to avoid overcooking and ensure juicy chicken every time.
- Rest Before Serving: Let chicken rest 5 minutes off the grill so juices redistribute and the crust sets beautifully.
How to Serve Grilled Herb Mustard Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
I like to finish this chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives right before serving—it adds a pop of color and fresh herb aroma that complements the dried herbs perfectly. A lemon wedge on the side is also great for squeezing a hit of bright citrus.
Side Dishes
My favorite sides alongside this grilled herb mustard chicken recipe are grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini, a light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, or even a creamy potato salad to balance the tangy chicken. It’s pretty versatile, so you can pick whatever mood your meal is in!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, I’ve served this chicken sliced over a bed of mixed greens topped with toasted almonds and shaved parmesan, drizzled with a simple balsamic glaze to elevate it. It turns the humble herb mustard chicken into an elegant plate fit for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover grilled herb mustard chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and it usually lasts 3-4 days. It stays juicy and flavorful, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
Freezing works well for this recipe too. I slice the chicken before freezing so I can grab individual portions. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer warming the chicken gently in the oven at 300°F wrapped in foil to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving if possible since it can dry out the mustard crust. A quick 10-15 minutes usually does the trick.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this grilled herb mustard chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer darker meat. Just adjust the grilling time since thighs tend to take a bit longer to cook through—usually about 15-18 minutes over medium heat. The herb mustard marinade pairs wonderfully with the richer flavor of thighs.
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How do I prevent the mustard from burning on the grill?
Great question! Mustard can burn if the grill is too hot. Keeping your grill at medium heat and flipping the chicken only once helps prevent this. Also, brushing the sauce on toward the end of grilling rather than right at the start gives it enough flavor without charring.
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Can I make the grilled herb mustard chicken recipe indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop or even a broiler. Just make sure to watch the chicken closely to avoid burning the mustard crust and cook until it reaches 165°F internally. An indoor grill pan will give you nice char marks and a similar flavor.
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Is it necessary to use dried herbs, or can I use fresh?
You can definitely swap dried herbs for fresh ones, but you’ll want to use about three times as much fresh herb to get the same intensity (for example, 1 tablespoon dried oregano equals about 3 tablespoons fresh). Fresh herbs will give a brighter, lighter flavor which can be a nice variation.
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What sides complement this grilled herb mustard chicken recipe best?
I love pairing it with grilled vegetables, a bright salad, or a creamy potato side. It’s versatile enough to match both light, fresh veggies and hearty starches, depending on what you’re craving or what’s in season.
Final Thoughts
This grilled herb mustard chicken recipe holds a special place in my rotation because it’s just so darn easy and reliably delicious. I always feel like I’m serving up something that tastes like effort went into it — without needing a ton of time or fancy ingredients. Give it a try next time you want a fast, tasty meal that hits all the right notes. I promise, once you grill it up, it’ll be one you come back to again and again.
PrintGrilled Herb Mustard Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and easy Grilled Herb Mustard Chicken recipe featuring a tangy Dijon mustard and herb marinade that perfectly complements juicy boneless skinless chicken breasts. Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons water
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, stir together Dijon mustard, dried parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, pepper, and water until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Coat the chicken: Generously coat each boneless skinless chicken breast with a thick layer of the prepared mustard herb sauce, reserving some sauce for basting later.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium heat, making sure it’s properly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even grilling.
- Baste during cooking: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken breasts with the reserved mustard herb sauce to add extra flavor and moisture.
- Check doneness and serve: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For juicier chicken, marinate the chicken in the mustard herb sauce for 30 minutes to 2 hours before grilling.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or bake in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Fresh herbs can be substituted for dried, using about three times the amount.
- Serve with your favorite side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg