Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

Certainly! Here is a complete and detailed recipe for a flavorful and well-balanced dish: Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese.

Honey Mustard Chicken with Roasted Asparagus and Cheese

(🍯🍗🧀 A Sweet, Savory, and Cheesy Sheet Pan Dinner)

Introduction

This dish brings together the sweet and tangy richness of honey mustard chicken, the earthy flavor of roasted asparagus, and the indulgent melt of golden cheese for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and full of textures and flavor contrast — juicy chicken, crispy-cheesy asparagus, and a luscious glaze that ties it all together.

Origin of the Recipe

Honey mustard sauce has roots in American cuisine, born from the fusion of two popular condiments. Its versatility makes it a favorite for glazes, dressings, and marinades. Roasting asparagus with cheese is a technique popularized in modern European cooking, especially in French and Italian-inspired kitchens. This dish combines classic American flavors with elegant European presentation, all cooked simply on a single baking tray.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp whole grain mustard (optional)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Roasted Asparagus

• 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Ingredients

• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
• 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary (for an herbal twist)
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayo in marinade for added creaminess
• Lemon zest over asparagus before roasting for brightness
• Swap chicken for boneless pork chops or tofu

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Honey Mustard Marinade

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if using), honey, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place chicken in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat.
3. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
3. Place the chicken breasts on one side of the tray and spoon extra marinade over them.
4. Roast for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Asparagus

1. While chicken is baking, toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. After 15 minutes of roasting, add the asparagus to the other side of the tray.
3. Roast for another 10–12 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature and asparagus is tender.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil

1. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the asparagus.
2. Switch oven to broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
3. (Optional) Drizzle extra honey mustard sauce over the finished dish before serving.

Tips for Success

• Let chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor.
• Use thick asparagus spears to avoid overcooking.
• Broil carefully — cheese burns fast!
• Pound chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
• Save leftover honey mustard for dipping or salads.

Serving Recommendations

• Serve with:
  
  • Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
  • A simple wild rice pilaf
  • A side salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges

Nutrition Estimate

(Per serving, serves 4)

Nutrient	Approximate Value
Calories	450–500 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	15g
Sugars	10g
Total Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	8g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	500–600mg

Note: Values vary based on cheese and portion size.