If you’re on the lookout for a dish that’s bursting with bold flavor yet simple to whip up, the Grilled Chicken & Mustard Skewers Recipe is an absolute winner. This recipe takes tender chicken pieces, coats them in a tangy and slightly sweet mustard glaze, and grills them to perfection, creating juicy, golden bites that are nothing short of irresistible. Whether you want an impressive appetizer or a light, satisfying meal, these skewers bring a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will quickly make them a favorite at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but crucial to nailing the delicious flavors and perfect texture of the dish. Each item plays a role in building that signature tangy-sweet glaze and the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breast for a leaner option, cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard: Provides a sharp, smooth base that gives the skewers their vibrant flavor.
- 2 tbsp honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the mustard’s tang.
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard: Brings in texture and a bit of earthiness with visible mustard seeds.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps marry the flavors and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Infuses the glaze with a subtle, savory crunch that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to elevating every bite.
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish): Brighten and add freshness to the finished skewers.
- Small skewers or toothpicks: Essential for easy grilling and serving, making the dish fun and handheld.
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Mustard Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Make the Glaze
Start by whisking together the Dijon mustard, honey, whole grain mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This glaze sets the foundation for the flavor profile—bold yet balanced with that lovely interplay of sweet and tangy notes. Whisking ensures everything is smoothly combined and ready to coat the chicken perfectly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken cubes in half of the prepared glaze, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes if you have the time. Marinating helps the chicken soak up all the flavors deeply, resulting in more flavorful, tender skewers. Even a short marination makes a noticeable difference!
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the glazed chicken cubes onto your small skewers or toothpicks. Arranging the chicken evenly ensures they cook uniformly and makes flipping easy. This is a great step to involve kids or friends, turning it into a fun pre-cook prep activity.
Step 4: Grill or Broil the Skewers
Place your skewers over medium heat on the grill or under the broiler and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out. You want a nice golden color with some charred bits for that unmistakable grilled flavor. The chicken should be cooked through but still juicy.
Step 5: Glaze and Garnish
While the skewers are hot off the grill, brush them with the remaining mustard glaze for an extra punch of flavor and sheen. If you’re using fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, sprinkle them on now to add vibrant color and that fresh herbal aroma that complements the mustard beautifully.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Serve the skewers warm, either straight from the grill with toothpicks for a fabulous finger food appetizer or over a bed of fluffy rice or greens if you want a light meal. The versatility and flavor make these skewers a crowd-pleasing choice for any occasion.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Mustard Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon adds a lovely pop of green that brightens the dish visually and enhances its aroma. For an extra tangy contrast, a few lemon wedges on the side allow guests to add a fresh squeeze of citrus that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
These skewers pair wonderfully with simple sides. Think a crisp garden salad, grilled vegetables, or even a creamy potato salad. For heartier options, couscous or jasmine rice complement the mustard’s zing really well, soaking up any extra glaze and making for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party vibe, arrange multiple skewers on a large wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or extra mustard on the side. To elevate dinner, serve the skewers atop a warm grain bowl topped with avocado slices and a drizzle of yogurt dressing for layers of texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover skewers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay fresh for up to 3 days and can make for incredibly tasty next-day snacks or quick lunches.
Freezing
To freeze, remove the chicken from the skewers and lay the pieces flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and preserves texture. Frozen chicken pieces can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Adding a brush of the mustard glaze during reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor, keeping the chicken deliciously juicy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this Grilled Chicken & Mustard Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star here, you can experiment with pork tenderloin or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
Should I soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill, making your cooking process safer and more efficient.
What type of mustard is best for this recipe?
Using a combination of smooth Dijon mustard and whole grain mustard creates a fantastic balance of creaminess and texture, giving the skewers a dynamic flavor that a single mustard type can’t achieve alone.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! All the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your mustard brands don’t contain any hidden gluten additives, and you’re good to go.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
At least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to seep in, but if you have more time, marinating for 2 hours or overnight gives even deeper flavor enhancement while keeping the chicken juicy.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Chicken & Mustard Skewers Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special without any complicated steps. It’s a perfect way to bring friends and family together over a delicious, visually appealing meal that packs big flavor in every bite. Give it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
