Heart Healthy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 5/1/2026
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

Chicken breasts get a flavorful upgrade in this Heart Healthy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken. This healthy honey mustard chicken is a simple grilled chicken recipe that easily combines with a variety of side dishes for an effortless weeknight meal.

The mouthwatering honey dijon marinade makes this one of the easiest and tastiest low-fat, low-sodium, and low-cholesterol recipes you can make. Whether you are looking for a lean protein for meal prep or a quick family dinner, this zesty glaze provides maximum flavor without the extra salt or preservatives found in store-bought sauces.

While the grill is hot, check out all of our easy and healthy grilling recipes!

Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
4
Calories
164

What Makes This Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken Healthy

This recipe utilizes lean, boneless skinless chicken breast and a homemade marinade to keep saturated fat and sodium levels low. By using Dijon mustard and honey instead of creamy bases or high-sodium pre-packaged glazes, you get a heart-healthy meal that fits perfectly into diabetic and gluten-free dietary patterns.

Key Health Highlights

  • Lean Protein Source: Using chicken breasts provides a high-protein, low-fat base that supports muscle health and satiety.
  • Low-Sodium Marinade: By controlling the ingredients in the honey-dijon sauce, this recipe stays well within heart-healthy sodium limits.
  • Low-Cholesterol: This grilling method requires minimal added fats, making it ideal for managing cholesterol levels.
  • Diabetes-Friendly: The balance of lean protein with a measured amount of natural sweetener (honey) helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
  • Naturally Gluten-Free: All ingredients used in this zesty glaze are naturally gluten-free (always check your mustard label to be sure).

FAQs About Honey Dijon Chicken

For the best flavor, marinate for at least 2 hours. If you're in a hurry, 30 minutes will still provide a nice surface glaze, but longer is better.

Chicken is safe to eat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs. Note that they may take a few minutes longer to cook and will have a slightly higher fat content.

Most Dijon mustards are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label for any malt-based vinegars or thickeners if you have a strict gluten-free requirement.

Never use the marinade that has touched raw chicken as a dipping sauce unless you bring it to a full rolling boil in a small saucepan first.

More Heart Healthy Grilled Chicken Recipes

If you enjoyed this zesty dish, explore more heart-healthy grilled chicken recipes that prioritize lean protein and bold, low-sodium flavors.

Heart Healthy Pairings for a Complete Meal

Create a balanced dinner by pairing your honey mustard chicken with these heart-healthy sides that add essential nutrients and fiber to your plate.

Healthy Variations

  • Spicy Honey Mustard: Add ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the marinade for a heat boost.
  • Garlic Dijon Chicken: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the bag while marinating for a more savory profile.
  • Herb-Crusted: Add a tablespoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme to the honey mustard mixture before coating the chicken.

Ingredients

Recipe yields 4 servings

Helpful How-To Video

Directions

  1. Step 1

    In a small bowl, combine the honey, mustard, ginger, salt and pepper. Mix well and transfer to a large zip-top plastic bag. Add the chicken and shake to coat evenly with honey mustard sauce. Marinate for at least 2 hours, chilled.

  2. Step 2

    Preheat the grill to medium heat. Lightly coat a grill rack with nonstick cooking spray. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and cooked through.

  3. Step 3

    Let the chicken rest on a serving platter for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
4 oz chicken

164
Calories
1
g
Fat
66
mg
Cholesterol
329
mg
Sodium
1
g
Carbs
0
g
Sat. Fat
0
g
Fiber
26
g
Protein

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Oven Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Air Fryer: Place chicken in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Stovetop Grill Pan: If you don't have an outdoor grill, use a lightly greased grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • To Store: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • To Freeze: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • To Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or extra marinade to keep the chicken from drying out.
  • Meal Prep Idea: Slice the cold chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens or in a whole-grain wrap for a healthy lunch.

What to Serve With These Heart Healthy Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

This zesty grilled chicken pairs perfectly with light, fiber-rich sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad, roasted root vegetables, or a chilled grain salad to complete your heart-healthy meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Dijon, spicy brown mustard or stone-ground mustard work well, though they will slightly change the texture.

Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used in place of honey for a different flavor profile.

This marinade also works beautifully with turkey cutlets or even firm tofu for a plant-based heart-healthy option.

If you lack ground ginger, a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger will add a more pungent, zesty kick.

More Recipes Like Healthy Honey Mustard Chicken

Explore a variety of mouthwatering and healthy chicken recipes that are crafted from wholesome ingredients to please your palate while supporting a healthy lifestyle. They’re easy to make and family-friendly, too!