Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos Recipe

Tacos are universally loved for their versatility, but what if we combined the zesty sweetness of honey mustard with the classic comfort of tender chicken? Enter Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos—a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors wrapped up in warm tortillas. Whether you’re hosting a taco night or seeking a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe will delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Profile: The honey mustard sauce gives these tacos a refreshing twist.
2. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish accessible.
3. Customizable: Adapt the toppings to suit your preferences.
4. Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and assemble when ready to serve.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Taste and Adjust: Add more honey for sweetness or mustard for tang, depending on your preference.

Step 3: Shred or Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or shred it using two forks. Toss the chicken in half of the honey mustard sauce, reserving the rest for drizzling or dipping.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or wrap them in foil and warm in a low oven.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

1. Layer the Toppings: Start by adding a layer of shredded lettuce to each tortilla.
2. Add the Chicken: Place a generous amount of honey mustard chicken on top of the lettuce.
3. Top It Off: Add diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, red onions, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
4. Drizzle with Sauce: Use the reserved honey mustard sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an optional squeeze of freshness.

Tips for Perfect Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lettuce, ripe avocados, and juicy tomatoes elevate the tacos.
2. Don’t Skip the Rest Time: Letting the chicken rest ensures it stays juicy when sliced.
3. Customize the Tortillas: Toasted tortillas add a slight crunch, while soft ones offer a traditional experience.
4. Control the Heat: Adjust cayenne pepper or add jalapeños for more spice.

Variations

Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

Take the chicken outdoors by grilling it for a smoky flavor. Baste with the sauce as it cooks.

Honey Mustard Shrimp Tacos

Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist. Cook shrimp until pink and toss in honey mustard sauce.

Vegetarian Option

Replace chicken with roasted chickpeas or grilled tofu for a plant-based version.

Spicy Honey Mustard

Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the honey mustard mix for a spicier kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Honey Mustard?

Yes, but making the sauce at home allows you to control the flavor and ingredients.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead?

Yes! Prep the chicken and sauce in advance. Assemble the tacos just before serving for the freshest experience.

What Pairs Well with Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos?

Try serving them with a side of corn salad, tortilla chips and guacamole, or a light coleslaw.

The Origins of Honey Mustard

Honey mustard is believed to have originated in European cuisine, combining two staple condiments: mustard and honey. Its tangy sweetness makes it a versatile addition to everything from salads to sandwiches. In this recipe, it shines as a marinade and sauce, transforming simple chicken tacos into a gourmet experience.

Serving Suggestions

1. Taco Bar: Set up a taco bar with all the toppings and let everyone assemble their own tacos.
2. As a Salad: Skip the tortillas and serve the honey mustard chicken over a bed of greens.
3. In a Wrap: Use large tortillas to make hearty wraps with the same ingredients.
4. As a Bowl: Create a taco bowl with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos bring together the best of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one irresistible package. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to customize and sure to impress.

Try this recipe today and watch as these tacos become a new family favorite!

Yield: 4

Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos Recipe

Print

Tacos are universally loved for their versatility, but what if we combined the zesty sweetness of honey mustard with the classic comfort of tender chicken? Enter Honey Mustard Chicken Tacos—a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors wrapped up in warm tortillas. Whether you're hosting a taco night or seeking a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe will delight your taste buds.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Tacos:
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional Toppings:
• Sliced avocado
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Hot sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Reduce the heat to low and pour the prepared honey mustard sauce over the chicken.
4. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce.

3. Warm the Tortillas

• Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side or wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Tacos

1. Place a generous scoop of the honey mustard chicken onto each tortilla.
2. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and red onion slices.
3. Garnish with cilantro and any additional toppings of your choice.

5. Serve

• Serve immediately with lime wedges for a fresh burst of citrus.

Notes

• Grill option: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet. Brush with honey mustard sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle with sriracha for a heat boost.