Oven-fried Dijon Chicken

Oven-fried Dijon Chicken Recipe from France with Mustard, Lemon Juice, and More

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Oven-fried Dijon Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tangy dijon mustard, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering marinade for the chicken. Coated in a crunchy cereal and parmesan cheese crust, this chicken is baked to perfection in the oven, resulting in a crispy and golden brown exterior with juicy and tender meat inside.

History

The origins of Oven-fried Dijon Chicken are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional fried chicken recipes. By using the oven instead of deep-frying, this recipe offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. The addition of dijon mustard and parmesan cheese adds a unique twist to the classic fried chicken, making it a popular choice for those looking for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

1.5 tbsp dijon mustard
1 tsp lemon juice
3 large cloves garlic, minced
0.5 tsp dried, crumbled rosemary
freshly ground pepper
6 small chicken thighs, skinned
3 cups bran flakes cereal
6 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a small bowl, combine mustard, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Combine cereal and cheese in a sealable bag and crush the flakes well.
Thoroughly coat the chicken in the mustard mixture and place it in the bag with the cereal and cheese, a few pieces at a time.
Shake gently to coat the chicken well.
Place the chicken in a dish lined with foil, ensuring it is in a single layer only.
Cover the dish with foil.
Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Variations

Substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts or drumsticks for a different cut of meat.
Use different types of cereal, such as cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs, for the crust.
Add herbs and spices, such as thyme, paprika, or cayenne pepper, to the mustard mixture for a more complex flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to skin the chicken thighs before coating them in the mustard mixture and cereal crust to ensure a crispy and crunchy texture.

- Crushing the cereal and cheese together in a sealable bag helps to evenly coat the chicken and create a uniform crust.

- Covering the dish with foil while baking helps to lock in moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.

- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in the mustard mixture for a few hours or overnight before coating and baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Oven-fried Dijon Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of extra dijon mustard for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Rotate the chicken halfway through baking to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole grain mustard or honey mustard instead of dijon mustard for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute parmesan cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or asiago cheese for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the mustard mixture and coat the chicken in the cereal crust ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

- Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Oven-fried Dijon Chicken on a platter with fresh herbs, lemon slices, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation. - Arrange the chicken on a bed of mixed greens or rice pilaf for a colorful and appetizing dish.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Oven-fried Dijon Chicken with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the tangy mustard and zesty lemon flavors.

- Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to balance out the crunchy texture of the chicken.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Oven-fried Dijon Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

290

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 5g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 24g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6%

- Vitamin C: 4%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 8%

Alergens

Contains dairy (parmesan cheese)

Summary

Oven-fried Dijon Chicken is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. While it is relatively low in carbohydrates, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes and any dietary restrictions or allergies.

Summary

Oven-fried Dijon Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy cereal and parmesan cheese crust and a tangy dijon mustard marinade, this chicken is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that is both healthy and delicious.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Oven-fried Dijon Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished attending a cooking class at the community center. The instructor, a lovely elderly woman named Mrs. Jenkins, had shared her secret recipe for this delicious dish with us.

As Mrs. Jenkins demonstrated how to prepare the chicken, I was mesmerized by her skill and confidence in the kitchen. She explained that the key to making the chicken extra crispy was to coat it in a mixture of Dijon mustard and breadcrumbs before baking it in the oven.

I watched intently as Mrs. Jenkins seasoned the chicken with a blend of herbs and spices, then coated each piece in the Dijon mustard mixture. The aroma of the chicken as it baked in the oven was mouthwatering, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When the chicken was finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins plated it up and invited us all to try a piece. The first bite was a revelation - the chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside. The tangy Dijon mustard added a delicious zing to the dish that I had never experienced before.

After the class ended, I approached Mrs. Jenkins and asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed and even wrote it down on a piece of paper for me to take home. I thanked her profusely and promised to make the dish for my family that evening.

When I arrived home, I wasted no time in getting started on making the Oven-fried Dijon Chicken. I carefully followed Mrs. Jenkins' instructions, coating the chicken in the mustard mixture and baking it in the oven until it was golden brown and crispy.

As the chicken cooked, the delicious aroma filled the kitchen, and my family started to drift in, drawn by the tantalizing scent. When I finally pulled the chicken out of the oven, they couldn't wait to dig in. The crispy exterior gave way to tender, flavorful meat, and they all raved about how delicious it was.

From that day on, Oven-fried Dijon Chicken became a regular feature on our dinner table. I made it for special occasions and family gatherings, and it quickly became a favorite among my loved ones. I even passed the recipe on to my own children, who have since made it for their families as well.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the recipe, adding my own special touches to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different herbs and spices, and even tried using different types of mustard to see how it would change the flavor of the dish. But no matter how I change it, the Oven-fried Dijon Chicken always remains a beloved classic in our family.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Mrs. Jenkins' cooking class, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe she shared with me. It has brought joy and comfort to my family for so many years, and I will always treasure the memories of making it together in my kitchen.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and easy-to-make chicken recipe, look no further than Oven-fried Dijon Chicken. I promise you won't be disappointed.