This delightful dinner recipe combines tender chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and tangy honey-mustard sauce, accompanied by a medley of roasted root vegetables. It’s a balanced meal perfect for dinner, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the vegetables:

1 cup cubed butternut squash
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup cubed parsnip
1 cup cubed sweet potato
1 red onion, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the chicken:

¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
½ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

Directions

Prepare the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a large baking sheet in the oven to warm it up. In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, carrots, parsnip, sweet potato, and red onion. Add olive oil, rosemary, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper to the vegetables. Stir to coat them evenly. Carefully remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven and spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on it. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Stir them and continue roasting until they are tender, about 15 more minutes.
Prepare the chicken: While the vegetables are roasting, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, thyme, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper in a bowl until the mixture is smooth. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the honey-mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Cook the chicken: After the vegetables have roasted for about 30 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Place the coated chicken breasts on top of the roasted vegetables. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, approximately 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition Facts Per serving:

Calories: 350
Protein: 50g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 600mg

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

One of the main highlights of this dish is the honey-mustard sauce. The blend of Dijon mustard and honey creates a complex yet harmonious balance of flavors. The mustard provides a slight tanginess and depth, while the honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the chicken. The addition of fresh garlic and thyme enhances the overall taste, giving it a fragrant and savory kick. Roasting the vegetables alongside the chicken not only makes the cooking process more convenient but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. As the vegetables cook, their natural sugars caramelize, creating a deep, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the honey-mustard glaze. The warmth of roasted root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips adds a comforting, homey touch to the dish.

A Nutrient-Packed Meal

This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. The chicken breasts serve as an excellent source of lean protein, making this a satisfying meal that supports muscle growth and repair. Meanwhile, the root vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. Sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A and is essential for eye health. Carrots are loaded with antioxidants, while parsnips contribute fiber to aid digestion. The addition of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme provides not just flavor but also added health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Another health benefit of this dish is that it is relatively low in unhealthy fats while providing a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Using olive oil in the roasting process adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which help support cardiovascular health. The honey used in the glaze provides a natural source of sweetness without the need for processed sugars, making this a healthier alternative to many store-bought sauces.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Honey-Mustard Chicken with Roasted Vegetables is its versatility. It is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a meal-prep option for busy weekdays, or even an elegant dish for entertaining guests. The combination of flavors is universally appealing, making it a great option for people of all ages. Additionally, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Another advantage of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Everything is cooked on a single baking sheet, minimizing the cleanup process and making it an excellent choice for home cooks who want a stress-free cooking experience. The recipe can also be easily adjusted to suit personal preferences. For example, those who enjoy a little heat can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey-mustard sauce, while others may opt to include additional vegetables such as Brussels sprouts or bell peppers for more variety.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. For a more complete meal, it can be served with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to the warm, roasted flavors. A serving of brown rice or quinoa can also complement the dish, adding more fiber and nutrients. For those who enjoy wine with their meals, a light white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the honey-mustard glaze. The acidity in these wines helps to balance out the sweetness of the honey while enhancing the savory depth of the mustard and roasted vegetables. Alternatively, a crisp apple cider can be a great non-alcoholic option that complements the dish’s flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Honey-Mustard Chicken with Roasted Vegetables is also an excellent choice for meal prepping. The leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a great option for those who want to prepare meals in advance. To store, simply place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container. When reheating, using an oven or air fryer is the best way to retain the crispiness of the roasted vegetables. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If using a microwave, covering the dish with a damp paper towel can help prevent the chicken from drying out. For those who want to freeze this meal, it’s best to store the cooked chicken separately from the roasted vegetables. The vegetables may become slightly mushy after freezing, but they can still be enjoyed if reheated properly in the oven. Freezing the honey-mustard glaze separately is also a good idea, as it can be used later to add a fresh burst of flavor to the reheated dish.

Conclusion

Honey-Mustard Chicken with Roasted Vegetables is a well-rounded, flavorful, and nutritious dish that suits a variety of occasions. Its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, combined with its ease of preparation, makes it an ideal choice for busy individuals, families, and even those who enjoy entertaining guests. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. The roasted vegetables add an extra layer of richness and texture, while the honey-mustard glaze enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Whether you are looking for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, a meal-prep option, or a dish to impress guests, Honey-Mustard Chicken with Roasted Vegetables is a recipe worth trying. Its combination of flavors, health benefits, and ease of preparation makes it a standout meal that will quickly become a household favorite.

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