Dijon Chicken

Dijon Chicken Recipe - Authentic French Cuisine

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Dijon Chicken is a classic French dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful Dijon mustard sauce. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a weeknight meal that is sure to impress.

History

The origins of Dijon Chicken can be traced back to the region of Dijon in France, known for its famous mustard. The combination of tangy Dijon mustard, white wine, and fresh herbs creates a delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.

Ingredients

2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp margarine
2 cloves of garlic, crushed
0.5 cup dry white wine
0.25 cup water
2 tbsp dijon mustard
0.5 tsp dried dill weed
0.25 tsp coarsely ground pepper
0.33 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
Cut each breast into two pieces. Place the pieces on a wooden cutting board and pound them with a meat mallet or the side of a rolling pin until they are 0.5" thick.
Heat margarine in a large frying pan. Add garlic and cook for 2 minutes over medium heat.
Brown the chicken pieces for 3 minutes on each side.
Transfer the chicken to a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) shallow casserole dish.
In the same frying pan, combine the wine, water, mustard, dill weed, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 1 minute.
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the casserole dish.
Cover the dish and bake for 30 minutes.
Add parsley to the dish. Baste the chicken with the sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor.
Add a splash of cream to the sauce for a creamy texture.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

- Browning the chicken before baking helps to seal in the juices and adds flavor to the dish.

- Basting the chicken with the sauce during cooking helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Dijon Chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before baking helps to seal in the juices and adds flavor to the dish.

- Basting the chicken with the sauce during cooking helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Dijon Chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Dijon Chicken with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

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

Each serving of Dijon Chicken contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Dijon Chicken contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Dijon Chicken contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Dijon Chicken contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Dijon Chicken is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (margarine) and mustard.

Summary

Dijon Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients.

Summary

Dijon Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight meal. With its flavorful Dijon mustard sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Dijon Chicken. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new recipes and flavors. One day, she brought out a dusty old cookbook from her shelf and flipped through the pages until she found the recipe that caught my eye.

The recipe called for simple ingredients - chicken breasts, Dijon mustard, garlic, and fresh herbs. It seemed so easy, yet so elegant at the same time. My grandmother explained to me that the key to a delicious Dijon Chicken was in the marinade - a mixture of tangy Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and a blend of herbs. She showed me how to properly marinate the chicken, letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

As the chicken baked in the oven, the savory aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water. When it was finally done, my grandmother plated the chicken and drizzled a creamy Dijon sauce over the top. The first bite was a revelation - tender, juicy chicken with a burst of tangy mustard and fragrant herbs. It was love at first taste.

From that moment on, Dijon Chicken became a staple in our household. Whenever we had guests over for dinner, I would proudly serve up this dish, watching as their faces lit up with delight. They would always ask for the recipe, and I would gladly share it, knowing that it would bring joy to their own kitchens.

Over the years, I have made some changes to the original recipe, adding my own twist here and there. I started experimenting with different herbs and spices, playing around with the proportions of Dijon mustard and garlic. Each time I made Dijon Chicken, it was like a little culinary adventure, a chance to explore new flavors and techniques.

One day, while browsing through the farmer's market, I came across a vendor selling fresh honey. Inspiration struck - what if I added a touch of sweetness to the Dijon sauce? I rushed home and immediately set to work, blending honey into the mustard and garlic mixture. The result was a revelation - a perfect balance of sweet and savory, a harmony of flavors that danced on the palate.

I couldn't wait to share my new creation with my family. As they sat down to dinner that evening, I brought out the honey Dijon Chicken, the golden sauce glistening in the candlelight. The first bite was met with silence, then smiles, then raves of approval. My family declared it the best Dijon Chicken they had ever tasted, and I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

As the years passed, my love for cooking only grew stronger. I continued to experiment with new recipes, always drawing inspiration from the dishes of my past. But no matter how many new recipes I tried, Dijon Chicken remained a favorite in my household. It was a dish that held a special place in my heart, a reminder of my grandmother's wisdom and love for cooking.

And now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy in making Dijon Chicken as I have. May it bring you and your loved ones together around the dinner table, sharing laughter and stories, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And remember, the key to a delicious Dijon Chicken lies not just in the ingredients, but in the love and passion you put into making it. Happy cooking, my dear.