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These Brown Sugar Mustard Rubbed Chicken Bites are sweet with a savory twist and just a little hint of spice at the end. They come together in about 20 minutes making them perfect for quick lunches easy dinners or meal prep on busy days. I discovered this recipe when I wanted to create a honey mustard inspired dry rub using brown sugar and mustard powder and it quickly became a favorite because it never fails to satisfy my craving for something sweet and savory.
I made these chicken bites during a hectic week and now keep them on repeat. They are my go to whenever I want a quick meal that doesn't skimp on taste.
Ingredients
- Dry mustard powder: One tablespoon this brings a tangy and sharp heat to the rub and choosing a quality brand like Colman’s really makes a difference
- Packed brown sugar: Two teaspoons adds the essential sweetness and caramel notes that balance the tang of mustard
- Paprika: One and a half teaspoons for a smoky warmth choose sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference
- Garlic powder: Half a teaspoon this brings a subtle savory depth without overpowering
- Onion powder: Half a teaspoon adds another layer of aromatic flavor
- Salt: Half a teaspoon enhances all the spices and seasons the chicken perfectly
- Black pepper: Quarter teaspoon for a mild bite that complements the rub
- Cayenne pepper: Eighth teaspoon adds a gentle kick increase to a quarter teaspoon if you prefer more heat
- Raw boneless skinless chicken breast: One pound cut into bite sized pieces fresh chicken ensures tenderness and quick even cooking
- Olive oil: One tablespoon to sauté and help crisp the chicken bits nicely look for extra virgin olive oil for best flavor
Instructions
- Spoon the Seasoning Mix together:
- In a small dish combine the mustard powder brown sugar paprika garlic powder onion powder salt black pepper and cayenne pepper. Mix until fully blended so the flavors can be evenly distributed on the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken Chunks:
- Place your bite sized chicken pieces into a mixing bowl. Add the seasoning mix and stir well making sure each piece is thoroughly coated with the spices for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Heat the Pan and Cook the Chicken:
- Warm the olive oil over medium high heat in a large sauté pan or skillet. Once the oil is hot but not smoking add the chicken pieces being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Stir frequently every few minutes allowing the chicken to cook evenly and develop a bit of a golden crust on the outside. This usually takes between 6 to 8 minutes. When the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized remove from heat.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve these bites on their own or with your favorite sides like a fresh green salad steamed veggies or your choice of grain. They also make an excellent protein topping for wraps or bowls.
My favorite ingredient here has to be the dry mustard powder because it adds that unique tang that transforms the flavor from just sweet to something exciting and balanced. One memorable moment was when I served these to friends who didn’t believe that chicken bites could taste so interesting with just a few spices. It quickly became their new favorite snack.
Storage Tips
These chicken bites store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days making them perfect for meal prep. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to retain juiciness. You can also freeze the bites in portioned freezer bags for up to three months then thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have dry mustard powder you could try using Dijon mustard spread on the chicken but reduce the oil slightly since it adds moisture. Light brown sugar can be swapped with coconut sugar or white sugar although the flavor profile will be less rich. Smoked paprika can be replaced with regular paprika for a milder smoky note.
Serving Suggestions
I love serving these chicken bites over a bed of mixed greens topped with avocado and a lemon vinaigrette. They also are great tossed into grain bowls with quinoa or rice and roasted vegetables. Wrapping them in a warm tortilla with some creamy dressing makes for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
These brown sugar mustard rubbed chicken bites are a quick flavorful protein you can customize easily. Make a double batch to freeze for fast meals.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What spices are used in the brown sugar mustard rub?
The rub includes dry mustard powder, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- → How long does it take to cook the chicken bites?
Cooking the chicken bites takes about 6-8 minutes on medium-high heat until they are cooked through and slightly golden.
- → Can I prepare these chicken bites ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken bites are great for meal prep and can be refrigerated for a few days to reheat quickly for meals.
- → What are good serving suggestions for these chicken bites?
They pair well with side salads, rice, veggies, wraps, or grain bowls, adding a flavorful protein boost to various dishes.
- → Is this dish suitable for a low-calorie meal plan?
Each serving is about 190 calories, making it a light and satisfying option for calorie-conscious eating.