Chicken Dijon

Chicken Dijon Recipe - Classic French Dish with Yogurt and Mustard

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Chicken Dijon is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breast with a tangy dijon mustard coating. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

History

The origins of Chicken Dijon can be traced back to French cuisine, where dijon mustard is a staple ingredient. The combination of mustard and chicken creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that has become popular in many households around the world.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of plain yogurt, unsweetened low-fat
0.25 cup of dijon mustard
8 chicken breast halves (3 oz (85 g)), skinned
0.5 cup of soft breadcrumbs
vegetable cooking spray

How to prepare

Combine yogurt and mustard, stirring until well blended.
Brush the chicken breast halves evenly with the yogurt mixture, then coat them with breadcrumbs.
Arrange the chicken in a baking dish measuring 12 x 8 x 2 inches, which has been coated with cooking spray.
Cover the dish and bake it at 400°F (204°C) for 30 minutes.
Increase the temperature to 450°F (232°C).
Bake the dish uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is browned.

Variations

For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the yogurt and mustard mixture.
Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for a crunchy coating.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the yogurt and mustard mixture to ensure a flavorful and moist result.

- Using soft breadcrumbs will help create a crispy and golden brown coating on the chicken.

- Be sure to bake the chicken at the correct temperature and for the specified amount of time to ensure it is cooked through and the coating is crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Dijon with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the chicken in the oven ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the yogurt and mustard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Chicken Dijon with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Dijon with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

10g per serving

Fats

8g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Chicken Dijon is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to be mindful of the fat content in this dish.

Summary

Chicken Dijon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tangy mustard coating and crispy breadcrumb topping, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Chicken Dijon. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah at her cozy farmhouse. As soon as I stepped inside, the aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water.

Sarah greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and then she led me to the kitchen where she was busy preparing dinner. She had a large skillet on the stove, sizzling with chicken breasts coated in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce. The sight and smell were so enticing that I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe.

With a twinkle in her eye, Sarah began to tell me the story of how she had learned to make Chicken Dijon. She explained that she had first discovered the recipe while traveling through France many years ago. She had stumbled upon a quaint little bistro in the countryside, where the chef had generously shared his secret recipe with her.

Sarah went on to describe how she had painstakingly recreated the dish at home, tweaking the ingredients and proportions until she had perfected it to her liking. She emphasized the importance of using high-quality Dijon mustard and fresh herbs to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

As she spoke, I could see the passion and love she had for cooking reflected in her eyes. It was clear that this recipe held a special place in her heart, and she was eager to pass it on to me.

After dinner, Sarah handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe, complete with detailed instructions and tips for success. I thanked her profusely and promised to try it out soon.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. I followed Sarah's instructions to the letter, carefully searing the chicken breasts and simmering them in the rich, velvety sauce. The kitchen was filled with the tantalizing smells of garlic, mustard, and herbs, and I knew I was in for a treat.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it up and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, the tangy mustard cutting through the creamy sauce with a burst of savory goodness. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

From that day on, Chicken Dijon became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would often make it for family gatherings and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from my loved ones. The recipe had become more than just a dish to me – it was a cherished memory of my dear friend Sarah and the shared joy of cooking.

As the years passed, I continued to tweak and perfect the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. Each time I made it, I would think back to that fateful day in Sarah's kitchen and smile, grateful for the gift she had given me.

Now, whenever I make Chicken Dijon, I feel a connection to the past and the people who have influenced my cooking journey. It serves as a reminder of the power of friendship, love, and good food to bring us together and create lasting memories.

And so, as I write down this recipe for Chicken Dijon, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a hope that it will bring as much joy to others as it has brought to me. May it inspire you to create delicious meals, share them with loved ones, and savor the moments that make life truly special. Bon appétit!