The first time my friend invited me over for dinner and served her “Unbelievable Chicken,” my taste buds were in for a delightful surprise. The chicken was tender, bursting with flavor, and perfectly charred from the grill. As I took my first bite, I couldn’t help but wonder how she created such a mouthwatering dish effortlessly. Turns out, it all comes down to a simple yet zesty mustard marinade that elevates ordinary chicken to something truly extraordinary.
With just a handful of ingredients, this grilled chicken with mustard sauce transforms into a family favorite that rivals any fast food meal. Whether you’re prepping for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend get-together, this recipe brings an irresistible combination of tangy, sweet, and savory notes that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). So, get ready to fire up the grill and impress your loved ones with just 44 minutes of your time—deliciousness awaits!
Why is Unbelievable Chicken a Crowd Favorite?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a few straightforward steps, you can create a culinary masterpiece that’s perfect for any skill level.
Zesty marinade: The unique blend of mustard, citrus, and spices infuses the chicken with layers of flavor that leave everyone wanting more.
Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is a time-saver for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile dish: Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Family-approved: Your loved ones will rave about this irresistible dish, ensuring it becomes a staple during those dinner rotations.
For more delicious ideas, explore our guide on easy weeknight dinners.
Unbelievable Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to impress with these flavorful components!
For the Marinade
• ¼ cup cider vinegar – Adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• 3 tablespoons prepared coarse-ground mustard – This zesty ingredient is the star of the show, giving your unbelievable chicken its signature flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced – Enhances aromatic depth, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• 1 lime, juiced – Provides a refreshing, citrusy zest that brightens the marinade.
• ½ lemon, juiced – Complements the lime juice, creating a well-rounded tangy base.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Introduces a hint of sweetness, balancing the acidity and spice in the marinade.
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this delicious dish.
• ground black pepper to taste – Adds a touch of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
• 6 tablespoons olive oil – Helps to emulsify the marinade and keeps the chicken moist while grilling.
For the Chicken
• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – The perfect canvas for soaking up that amazing marinade!
How to Make Unbelievable Chicken
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Combine the cider vinegar, mustard, minced garlic, lime juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix until well blended, creating a delicious marinade that packs a punch.
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Whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is perfectly emulsified. This step ensures your chicken will be moist and flavorful once grilled.
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Place the chicken breasts into a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring that every piece of chicken is luxuriously coated with that zesty goodness.
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Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse the chicken deeply.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is the perfect temperature for achieving that beautiful char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
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Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You’ll know it’s done when it’s nicely browned and smells heavenly!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Unbelievable Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator (this helps the flavors meld beautifully). Simply coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them marinate overnight for optimal taste. When you’re ready to grill, take the chicken out and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for even cooking. This ensures your meal is just as delicious and aromatic as if you made it fresh that day. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while serving up an impressive dish that your family will love!
What to Serve with Unbelievable Chicken?
Crafting the perfect meal doesn’t stop with just grilling the chicken; it’s about creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing side that complements the savory mustard chicken with its tangy dressing.
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes provide a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, this seasonal favorite brings a burst of summer flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Garden Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A light salad enhances the meal with fresh greens and a zesty dressing that echoes the marinade’s citrus notes.
- Steamed Asparagus: This elegant side adds a pop of color and a crisp texture while keeping the meal light and vibrant.
- Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lemon zest and herbs serves as the perfect base to soak up the delicious mustard sauce from the chicken.
- Chilled White Wine: A refreshing sip of chilled Sauvignon Blanc pairs nicely, allowing the flavors to dance on your tongue.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: End the meal on a sweet note with this rich dessert that adds a delightful contrast to the savory grilled chicken.
- Fruit Salad: A medley of fresh berries brings a burst of sweetness, balancing the meal and adding a touch of healthy goodness.
Expert Tips for Unbelievable Chicken
• Marinating Time Matters: For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour—this enhances the flavor of your unbelievable chicken even more.
• Grill Temperature: Preheating your grill to medium-high is essential to achieve a perfect char without drying out the chicken.
• Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F internally; this ensures it’s cooked through while remaining juicy.
• Don’t Rush the Grill: Let the chicken grill undisturbed for the full 6-7 minutes per side; flipping too soon may result in sticking and uneven cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and citrus juices elevate the flavor profile, making the marinade vibrant and delicious.
• Rest Your Chicken: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain its juices, ensuring every bite is perfectly tender.
How to Store and Freeze Unbelievable Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven or microwave. This will help maintain the juiciness of your unbelievable chicken.
Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, perfect for a quick chicken marinade later!
Unbelievable Chicken Customizations
Get ready to make this grilled chicken uniquely yours by experimenting with delightful flavor twists and thoughtful swaps!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an aromatic boost that enhances flavors beautifully.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute the lime and lemon juices with orange juice for a sweeter, more tropical flavor, perfect for summer grilling.
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar.
- Honey-Sweetened: Replace brown sugar with honey for a rich sweetness and a glossy finish that caramelizes nicely on the grill.
- Mustard Variation: Swap the coarse-ground mustard for Dijon or spicy brown mustard to add a different level of heat and tang.
- Balsamic Variation: Use balsamic vinegar instead of cider vinegar for a sweeter and tangy depth, making the dish even more interesting.
- Pineapple Glaze: Marinate with crushed pineapple instead of citrus for a sweet and tangy fusion that brightens the chicken.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the marinade for a depth of flavor that gives your chicken a delicious grilled effect even at the first bite.
Enjoy making these variations, and feel free to let your creativity shine!
Unbelievable Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for grilling?
Absolutely! Look for skinless, boneless chicken breast halves that are plump and have an even color. Avoid any with dark spots or an off smell, as this indicates they may not be fresh. For the best results, opt for organic or free-range options when possible, as they tend to have better flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover grilled chicken?
Very easy! Place any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, where it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it, as this prevents moisture buildup.
Can I freeze grilled chicken, and if so, how?
Of course! Freezing grilled chicken is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life. First, let the chicken cool completely. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my chicken is dry after grilling?
Oh no, we’ve all been there! To prevent dry chicken, ensure that you marinate it for the recommended time, ideally for about an hour before grilling. During grilling, avoid flipping it too soon; let it grill undisturbed for a full 6-7 minutes on each side. If your chicken still comes out dry, serve it with a sauce or some broth to add moisture and flavor back into the meat.
Can I use the marinade afterwards?
Absolutely, but with a twist! If you want to use the marinade after marinating your chicken, you should cook it first to make it safe for consumption. Bring the marinade to a boil for a few minutes to kill any harmful bacteria from the raw chicken, and then you can drizzle it over your grilled chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This grilled chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made low-sugar by reducing the brown sugar or substituting it with a sweetener of your choice. Just make sure to check that the mustard you’re using does not contain any gluten or allergens if you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary needs. Enjoy crafting this unbelievable chicken meal for all your loved ones!
Unbelievable Chicken: Grilled Bliss with Mustard Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the cider vinegar, mustard, minced garlic, lime juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix until well blended.
- Whisk in the olive oil until the mixture is perfectly emulsified.
- Place the chicken breasts into a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the top, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.