Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast or chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons dijon mustard (grainy preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); Freshly ground salt and black pepper (to taste)

If you’re craving a dinner that's bursting with flavor but still light and healthy, this Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe is just what you need. Tender chicken bathed in a sweet-and-tangy honey mustard marinade—it's an absolute crowd-pleaser whether you grill or bake it!

The dish shows four grilled, orange-brown chicken pieces with a shiny, glazed texture, sprinkled with small green herb bits on top. The chicken is arranged closely on a white plate, resting on a bed of mixed salad leaves that include chopped green lettuce, shredded carrots, and bits of purple cabbage, adding splashes of green, orange, and purple colors around the chicken. To the side of the plate is a small clear glass bowl filled with a yellow-orange sauce that looks smooth and slightly thick. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I adore this honey mustard chicken because it’s both quick to throw together and packs a powerful flavor punch, no matter if you're doing a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.

Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything on hand, making it super convenient.
Flavorful Marinade: The honey and grainy Dijon mustard create the perfect sweet-and-tangy combo.
Versatile Cooking: Grill it for those smoky char marks or bake it for hassle-free cooking indoors.
Healthy and Paleo-Friendly: Great for those watching their fat intake or following a paleo lifestyle.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Before we get cooking, let’s talk about the ingredients that make this dish sing. I always opt for quality chicken and grainy Dijon because they add texture and depth, and the rest of the marinade ingredients come together for that classic honey mustard flavor you’ll want every week.

Flat lay of a fresh raw chicken breast, a small white ceramic bowl with golden honey, a small white ceramic bowl of grainy dijon mustard, a small white ceramic bowl filled with shiny olive oil, a single whole garlic bulb and a peeled garlic clove, a tiny white ceramic bowl containing bright red cayenne pepper powder, and a small white ceramic bowl with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chicken breast or chicken thighs: Choose boneless for easy skewering and quick cooking, thighs offer extra juiciness if you prefer.
Honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances the tang of the mustard.
Grainy Dijon mustard: Adds texture and a robust mustard flavor.
Olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the marinade coat evenly.
Garlic clove: Freshly minced garlic boosts savory notes.
Cayenne pepper (optional): Gives a subtle kick if you like a touch of heat.
Freshly ground salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.

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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.

Make It Your Way

This Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to put your own spin on it! Whether you like a bit more heat, want to swap up the marinade ingredients, or experiment with cooking methods, it’s all about tailoring it to your taste and lifestyle.

Spicy Kick: I love adding an extra pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist that wakes up the flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
Herb Infusion: Try tossing in some chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an herbal boost that's great in spring and summer.
On a Stick: Cutting the marinated chicken into bite-sized pieces and threading them onto skewers makes for fun, easy-to-eat honey mustard chicken skewers—perfect for parties or meal prepping.
Oven-Baked Option: Sometimes, weather or timing calls for baking instead of grilling. The baked version is just as juicy and delicious, baking at 400°F for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is perfectly cooked through.
Meat Choices: While chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, chicken thighs bring a richer flavor and extra tenderness if you prefer dark meat.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe

A clear glass bowl sits on a beige cloth over a white marbled surface, holding two raw light pink chicken pieces. A woman's hand is pouring a thick mustard sauce with visible mustard seeds over the chicken, covering it unevenly with textured brown and yellow specks. To the right of the bowl, a wooden honey dipper with golden honey rests on the white marbled surface, along with some garlic cloves that have a pinkish-white skin. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whipping Up That Perfect Marinade

Start by combining 3 tablespoons of honey, 3 tablespoons of grainy Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, one finely minced garlic clove, and a ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you like some heat. Add freshly ground salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything in a large bowl until you have a smooth, aromatic sauce. This blend is where the magic happens—it’s sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy to make your chicken sing.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Place 1 pound of chicken breasts or thighs into your bowl with the marinade. Stir thoroughly so every piece is well coated in that luscious honey mustard goodness. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour—this is the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken!

Step 3: Grilling the Chicken to Juicy Perfection

Preheat your grill to a steady 400 degrees Fahrenheit. When it’s ready, place the marinated chicken directly on the grill grates and close the lid—it’s important to keep the heat locked in. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on one side without moving it; this helps develop those gorgeous grill marks and keeps the chicken juicy. Then, flip each piece over just once with tongs and grill for another 6 to 8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F. Remember, less flipping means juicier chicken!

Step 4: Resting for the Ultimate Tenderness

Once your chicken is off the grill, transfer it to a plate or cutting board and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute through the meat, resulting in tender, moist chicken every time. Then slice, serve, and enjoy!

Step 5: Oven-Baking – A Handy Alternative

If you’re skipping the grill, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange your marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This method is super convenient and just as delicious, especially on busy days or when outdoor cooking isn’t an option.

Top Tip

These tips will help you achieve the most flavorful, juicy Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers every time — making your cooking experience smoother and your dinner unforgettable.

Marinate with Purpose: I always let the chicken soak in the honey mustard marinade for at least 30 minutes, but no more than an hour. This ensures the chicken is infused with flavor without breaking down the texture too much.
Flip Only Once: Through trial and error, I found that flipping the chicken just once during grilling helps keep it juicy and produces those beautiful grill marks we all love.
Rest Your Chicken: After cooking, cover your chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This simple step locks in moisture and makes a big difference in tenderness.
Mind the Heat: If you’re including cayenne pepper, start with the smallest amount and adjust to taste. I learned the hard way that a little heat goes a long way in balancing the sweet and tangy flavors.

How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe

The image shows several thick slices of grilled chicken arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. The chicken has a golden brown, slightly charred outer layer with bright yellow-orange sauce drizzled over it. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding contrast and texture. On the upper right side, there is a small glass bowl filled with more of the same yellow-orange sauce. The chicken slices show a juicy and tender white inside with a well-cooked grilled crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a fresh and colorful touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over your chicken skewers just before serving. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice brightens the dish beautifully. For a bit of contrast, some thinly sliced red onions or crunchy sliced almonds can add delightful texture and flavor layers.

Side Dishes

Pair these honey mustard chicken skewers with vibrant grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works perfectly. For something heartier, serve alongside fluffy quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, or cauliflower rice to keep things paleo-friendly and wholesome.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they’ll maintain their best quality for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat your leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to revive that lovely grilled flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving during cooking, making them a great option if you prefer darker meat.

Is it necessary to use grainy Dijon mustard, or can I use smooth mustard?

While grainy Dijon mustard adds a lovely texture and depth to the marinade, smooth Dijon mustard will also work just fine if that's what you have on hand.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes! You can mix the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just reserve some fresh marinade when you toss the chicken to ensure the freshest taste.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. When it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, the chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers Recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple, flexible dish that brings sweet and tangy flavors together with juicy, tender chicken — perfect for a weeknight dinner or your next cookout. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen and, hopefully, yours too. Happy cooking!