Baked Chicken Dijon

Introduction

History

The origins of Baked Chicken Dijon can be traced back to French cuisine, where Dijon mustard, a traditional French condiment made from mustard seeds and white wine, plays a pivotal role in many dishes. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been embraced by cooks around the world, adding their own twists and variations to suit local tastes and preferences. Today, Baked Chicken Dijon stands as a testament to the fusion of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Chicken Dijon turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality Dijon mustard for the best flavor.

- Allow the chicken to marinate in the mustard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking for deeper flavor penetration.

- Bake the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before serving to retain its juices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Baked Chicken Dijon with a side of steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a light salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with quinoa or a small serving of roasted potatoes.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the recommended cooking technique for this recipe to achieve a tender and juicy chicken breast. However, for added flavor, you can sear the marinated chicken breasts in a skillet before transferring them to the oven to finish cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Dijon mustard is not available, whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute.

- Olive oil can be replaced with avocado oil for a similar health profile.

- For a garlic-free version, omit the garlic powder or use onion powder for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken in the Dijon mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together more fully.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked chicken with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serving the chicken on a bed of mixed greens or alongside a colorful vegetable medley can also enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the tangy flavors of the Dijon mustard. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep the chicken moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Chicken Dijon contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a suitable option for those managing their calorie intake. The exact calorie count can vary based on the size of the chicken breasts and the amount of oil used.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Chicken Dijon recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The primary ingredients, chicken and Dijon mustard, contain minimal carbohydrates, with the entire dish containing less than 5 grams of carbs per serving.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the oil used in the marinade and the natural fats found in the chicken. Using a healthier oil option, such as olive oil, can provide beneficial monounsaturated fats. Each serving contains approximately 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the specific cuts of chicken used and the type of oil.

Proteins

Baked Chicken Dijon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, with each serving providing about 25-30 grams. Chicken breast, the main ingredient, is known for its lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium, all of which are found in chicken. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production, maintaining healthy skin, and supporting the immune system.

Alergens

The primary allergen present in this recipe is mustard, which can be a concern for individuals with mustard allergies. Additionally, those with sensitivities to garlic or any other spices used should exercise caution.

Summary

Overall, Baked Chicken Dijon is a nutritious dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories, rich in high-quality proteins, and provides a good amount of healthy fats. It also offers various vitamins and minerals beneficial for overall health.

Summary

Baked Chicken Dijon is a versatile and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its rich nutritional profile and the ability to customize it to suit various dietary needs and preferences, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Baked Chicken Dijon. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was visiting my old friend Margaret for our weekly afternoon tea. Margaret was always the one who had the most delicious and unique recipes up her sleeve, so I was eager to see what she had in store for me that day.

As we sat down at her cozy kitchen table, she handed me a steaming cup of tea and a plate of warm scones. But it was the tantalizing aroma coming from the oven that caught my attention. I could smell the rich scent of herbs and mustard wafting through the air, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

"What's that delicious smell, Margaret?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity any longer.

"Oh, just a little something I whipped up for dinner tonight," she replied with a sly smile. "It's a new recipe I discovered for Baked Chicken Dijon. I think you're going to love it."

I watched as she pulled the golden-brown chicken out of the oven, the mustard glaze glistening in the soft light of the kitchen. The chicken looked tender and juicy, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

After we finished our tea and scones, Margaret served up the Baked Chicken Dijon with a side of roasted vegetables. I took a bite of the succulent chicken, and my taste buds exploded with flavor. The tangy mustard paired perfectly with the savory herbs and tender chicken, creating a dish that was truly divine.

I couldn't help but ask Margaret for the recipe, and she graciously wrote it down for me on a stained index card. She told me that she had learned the recipe from a French chef she had met on a trip to Paris many years ago. The chef had shown her the secret to making the most tender and flavorful chicken, and she had been making it ever since.

From that day on, Baked Chicken Dijon became a staple in my recipe collection. I would make it for family dinners, special occasions, and whenever I wanted to impress my guests with a delicious and elegant meal. Over the years, I would tweak the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch with different herbs and spices. But the core of the recipe remained the same, a testament to the culinary genius of that French chef and my dear friend Margaret.

As the years went by, I continued to add to my repertoire of recipes, collecting them from various places and people. Each recipe held a special memory for me, whether it was a dish I had enjoyed on a trip abroad or a family recipe passed down through generations. But Baked Chicken Dijon always held a special place in my heart, a reminder of that chilly autumn afternoon when I first discovered its delicious flavors.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of herbs and mustard, I can't help but smile as I prepare Baked Chicken Dijon for my own family. I know that one day, my grandchildren will ask me for the recipe, and I will pass it down to them with love and pride. And perhaps, they too will feel that sense of anticipation and excitement that I felt all those years ago when I first discovered this delicious dish.

Categories

| Chicken Recipes | French Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes |

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