Are you ready to whip up a meal that’s quick, tasty, and easy to clean up? Let me introduce you to One-Pan Honey Mustard Chicken & Rice! This delightful dish combines juicy chicken with soft, flavorful rice, all cooked in one pan. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dinner the whole family will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and start cooking up this delicious meal!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for One-Pan Honey Mustard Chicken & Rice
To make this tasty dish, gather these main ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
These items create a balanced meal with protein and carbs.
Spices and Seasonings
The spices in this recipe add layers of flavor. You will need:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
These spices enhance the chicken and rice, making them more tasty.
Optional Garnishes
Garnishes can make your dish look great. Consider these:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Sprinkling parsley on top gives your dish a fresh look and extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Chicken and Marinade
First, gather your chicken and marinade ingredients. You need four boneless, skinless chicken thighs. In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup honey, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Add salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until smooth. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Pour half of the marinade over them. Toss well to coat. Let it sit while you heat the skillet.
Searing the Chicken in the Skillet
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes. Look for a nice golden brown color. The chicken will not be cooked through yet. This step adds flavor and texture. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside.
Cooking the Rice and Combining Ingredients
In the same skillet, add 1 cup of long-grain rice. Stir it around to soak up the chicken juices. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This step gives the rice a rich flavor. Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and stir. Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice. Make sure everything is evenly spread out.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil. Place it in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check that the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. After baking, take the skillet out of the oven. Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. Cover again and let it sit for 5 minutes. This allows the peas to heat through. Finally, fluff the rice with a fork. Drizzle the remaining honey mustard sauce over everything and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfectly Sear Chicken
To get a nice sear on chicken, heat your skillet first. Use medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Place the chicken in the skillet without crowding it. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step seals in the juices. Make sure not to move the chicken too much while it cooks. Let it form a crust before flipping.
Achieving Fluffy Rice
For fluffy rice, rinse it under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping. When adding the rice to the skillet, stir it well to coat in chicken juices. Use the right amount of chicken broth, which helps the rice absorb flavor. Cover the skillet tightly while baking. This keeps steam in and helps the rice cook evenly.
Best Practices for Serving
Serving straight from the skillet adds a rustic touch. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains. Drizzle the extra honey mustard sauce over the chicken and rice for added flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives a pop of color. For a special touch, serve with a side of crusty bread.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can switch the chicken for other meats. Try boneless turkey thighs for a leaner option. Pork chops also work well and add a different flavor. For a plant-based choice, use firm tofu or tempeh. Just ensure they soak in the honey mustard marinade before cooking.
Different Grain Options
Rice is great, but you can try other grains. Quinoa adds a nutty taste and cooks quickly. Barley is hearty and gives a chewy texture. Couscous cooks fast and absorbs flavors well. Each grain brings its own unique taste to the dish.
Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Boost nutrition by adding veggies to the mix. Carrots give a sweet crunch when diced small. Bell peppers add color and sweetness. Spinach wilts nicely and packs nutrients. Just toss them in with the rice for extra flavor and health benefits.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
To store your One-Pan Honey Mustard Chicken & Rice, let it cool first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Make sure to store it in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat leftovers, reheat them in the oven or on the stove. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and rice in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes. On the stove, use medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to avoid drying it out. Stir occasionally until hot.
Freezing One-Pan Honey Mustard Chicken & Rice
To freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label them with the date. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious meal anytime!
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs. They add flavor and moisture. Just increase the cooking time. Bone-in thighs may need about 10 more minutes in the oven. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
You can use yellow mustard if you want a milder taste. Honey mustard is also a great choice. If you want zest, try spicy brown mustard. Each will change the flavor a bit. Adjust the honey in the recipe if your substitute is sweeter.
Is there a gluten-free option for the rice?
Yes, you can use gluten-free rice. Look for brands labeled as gluten-free. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are also good swaps. They keep the meal healthy and tasty. Ensure the broth you use is gluten-free too.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C). You can also cut into the thickest part. The meat should be white, not pink. Juices should run clear. These tips will help you serve safe and delicious chicken.
You learned how to make one-pan honey mustard chicken and rice. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for success. Remember, perfect searing and fluffy rice make all the difference. You can also switch proteins or add veggies to fit your taste.
Store leftovers properly to enjoy later or freeze for convenience. With your new skills, impressing family and friends is easy. You now have a delicious recipe that ticks all the boxes for flavor and fun. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
