Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

There’s something magical about the way honey and mustard come together — sweet, tangy, bold, and comforting all at once. And when you pair that with the tenderness that only an Instant Pot can deliver, you’ve got a dinner that’s not only full of flavor but feels like a warm hug after a long day. This Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you’re craving something rich, sticky, and incredibly satisfying.

Behind the Recipe

The idea for this recipe came to me on a chilly evening when I was craving comfort food that didn’t take forever to make. I had a few pantry staples and some chicken ready to go, and the Instant Pot was calling my name. I remembered how my grandmother used to make a tangy mustard-glazed chicken in the oven, and I wanted to re-create that warmth but with a faster, modern twist. The result? A juicy, flavorful dish that makes your kitchen smell like a cozy bistro.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Honey mustard as a flavor combo has roots in both European and American cuisines. While mustard dates back to ancient Roman times, the addition of honey became popular as a way to mellow the spice and bring balance. The sauce became widely known in the United States during the mid-20th century, often featured in dressings and glazes. Using it in an Instant Pot recipe not only modernizes this classic pairing but brings it to the dinner table in record time.

Why You’ll Love Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

This dish is more than just quick — it’s a full experience of textures and flavors. Here’s why it’s bound to become a weeknight hero:

Versatile: You can serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even shred it for sandwiches.

Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and chicken thighs or drumsticks.

Quick and Easy: Done in under 30 minutes thanks to the Instant Pot.

Customizable: Adjust the honey or mustard levels to suit your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet and savory is a combo most everyone loves.

Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen beautifully as it sits.

Great for Leftovers: Keeps well and tastes even better the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

If you want that melt-in-your-mouth chicken and bold, balanced flavor, follow these quick insider tricks:

1. Sear First for Flavor: Use the sauté function to brown the chicken before pressure cooking to lock in juices and deepen flavor.
2. Deglaze the Pot: After searing, add a splash of broth to lift those tasty brown bits off the bottom — this prevents the burn notice.
3. Use Natural Pressure Release: Let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for at least 5 minutes before quick releasing for optimal tenderness.
4. Thicken the Sauce: After cooking, switch to sauté mode and reduce the sauce for a thicker glaze.
5. Use Chicken Thighs: They’re juicier and hold up better under pressure cooking than leaner cuts.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Let’s make sure you have everything ready before diving in:

Instant Pot: The star of the show that makes everything faster and more flavorful.

Tongs: For flipping and transferring chicken with ease.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters when balancing sweet and tangy.

Whisk: Helps blend the honey mustard sauce to smooth perfection.

Small Bowl: For mixing the sauce ingredients before adding to the pot.

Ingredients in Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

Each ingredient here plays its own role in creating the rich, flavorful harmony that defines this dish:

1. Chicken Thighs (boneless, skinless): 2 pounds. Juicy, tender, and flavorful — perfect for pressure cooking.
2. Dijon Mustard: 1/4 cup. Adds tangy sharpness and depth.
3. Whole Grain Mustard: 2 tablespoons. Gives texture and a punchy bite.
4. Honey: 1/4 cup. Sweetens the sauce and balances the mustards.
5. Garlic (minced): 3 cloves. Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
6. Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup. Keeps everything moist and helps create the sauce.
7. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon. Used for searing the chicken for added flavor.
8. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Enhances and balances all the flavors.
9. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a mild heat and complexity.
10. Cornstarch (optional): 1 tablespoon mixed with water. Helps thicken the sauce after cooking if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Life’s unpredictable — here are some easy swaps in case you’re missing something:

Chicken Thighs: Use chicken drumsticks or bone-in thighs for a heartier version.

Dijon Mustard: Swap with yellow mustard, though flavor will be milder.

Whole Grain Mustard: Leave it out or double the Dijon for a smoother sauce.

Honey: Maple syrup works as a sweet alternative.

Chicken Broth: Water with a bouillon cube works in a pinch.

Ingredient Spotlight

Dijon Mustard: This French classic adds an elegant, tangy heat that’s less sharp than yellow mustard, making it perfect for sauces and glazes.

Honey: Not just for sweetness — it caramelizes beautifully under heat, giving the dish a golden glaze and irresistible aroma.

Instructions for Making Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

This recipe comes together fast but feels like it’s been simmering all day. Let’s get into the steps:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
Turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Let it heat up for a couple of minutes.

2. Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, garlic, chicken broth, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
Add olive oil to the heated pot. Sear the chicken thighs for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Pour a splash of broth into the pot to deglaze, scraping up the brown bits. Return the chicken to the pot and pour the sauce over it.

5. Cook to Perfection:
Seal the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes. Allow a 5-minute natural release, then quick release the rest.

6. Finishing Touches:
Remove chicken and set aside. Select sauté mode again and simmer the sauce until slightly thickened. Add a cornstarch slurry if desired.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the chicken on a plate, spoon the thickened sauce over top, and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This dish brings together contrasting textures in the best way — the chicken is fall-apart tender while the sauce is glossy and sticky with a mild tang. The sweet honey balances out the spicy mustard for a flavor combo that’s rich but never overwhelming.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Here are a few things that make all the difference:

• Double the Sauce: Great if you’re planning to serve with rice or noodles.
• Use Skin-On Chicken: If crisping it up in the oven later, skin adds flavor and texture.
• Add Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary at the end boosts aroma.

What to Avoid

Let’s dodge some common kitchen hiccups:

• Skipping the Sear: You’ll miss out on that golden color and flavor boost.
• Not Deglazing the Pot: This could trigger the Instant Pot’s burn warning.
• Overcooking: Stick to the timing to keep your chicken tender, not rubbery.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep the sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, place cooked and cooled chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

How to Serve Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken

This chicken pairs perfectly with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
• Fluffy white rice or brown rice
• Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli
• Crusty bread to soak up the sauce

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let a single bite go to waste:

• Honey Mustard Chicken Wraps: Shred and roll with lettuce and cheese.
• Savory Chicken Salad: Chop and mix with mayo, celery, and green onions.
• Glazed Chicken Pizza: Add to a flatbread with mozzarella and onions.

Additional Tips

• Taste as You Go: Adjust the sauce to your liking — add more honey for sweetness or mustard for tang.
• Rest the Chicken: Let it sit a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
• Use Fresh Garlic: It gives a better punch than garlic powder.

Make It a Showstopper

Presentation counts, especially for guests:

• Drizzle sauce over the top with a swirl for drama
• Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme
• Serve on a white plate to make the colors pop

Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream at the end for a silky sauce.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest to the sauce for a fresh flavor boost.
• Asian-Inspired: Mix in a dash of soy sauce and ginger.
• Vegan Alternative: Use tofu and vegetable broth, seared for texture.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just increase the cook time by 3–4 minutes and skip searing.

Q2: Can I make this without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely. Use a stovetop or slow cooker, just adjust cook time.

Q3: What type of mustard is best?

Dijon and whole grain give the best depth and texture, but adjust to your taste.

Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you ensure the mustard and broth are certified gluten-free.

Q5: Can I use chicken breasts?

You can, but they might turn out less juicy than thighs.

Q6: How can I thicken the sauce more?

Simmer longer on sauté mode or add a cornstarch slurry.

Q7: Can kids eat this?

Definitely. It’s not spicy and the sweet sauce is usually a hit.

Q8: What side dishes go best?

Mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or crusty bread are ideal.

Q9: Does it freeze well?

Yes. Just cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure not to exceed the Instant Pot’s fill line.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a home-cooked classic but fits perfectly into your busy life, this Instant Pot Honey Mustard Chicken is your new go-to. It’s the kind of dish that earns you compliments at the table and gives you peace of mind in the kitchen. Trust me, you’re going to love this one — it’s worth every bite.

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