CHICKEN DIJON

 CHICKEN DIJON

French Chicken Dijon, also known as "Poulet à la Moutarde" in French, is a classic French dish renowned for its creamy and flavorful Dijon mustard sauce. It features chicken, often boneless and skinless, codked in a rich and creamy sauce made with Dijon mustard, white wine, and sometimes heavy cream. The sauce is the star of the dish, and it's known for its distinctive tangy and savory flavor.

Key components of French Chicken Dijon include:

Chicken: Chicken breasts or thighs are commonly used, and they are usually seared to a golden-brown perfection in a skillet.

Dijon Mustard: This dish is named after Dijon, a city in France known for its mustard. Dijon mustard, which is made from brown or black mustard seeds and white wine or wine vinegar, is a key ingredient. It contributes a unique and slightly sharp flavor to the sauce.

White Wine: Dry white wine, such as Chardonnay, is often used to deglaze the pan and create a flavorful base for the sauce.

Heavy Cream (optional): Some variations of the recipe include heavy cream to make the sauce even richer and creamier.

Seasonings: Garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs like tarragon or thyme are often used to enhance the flavors.

French Chicken Dijon is a delightful and elegant dish known for its harmonious combination of flavors. It's typically served with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, allowing you to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce. This classic French recipe is a favorite for special occasions and a testament to the artistry of French cuisine.

French Chicken Dijon is a classic French dish known for its rich and creamy Dijon mustard sauce that complements tender, pan-seared chicken. 

Chicken Dijon is a rich and flavorful dish, and it pairs well with a variety of sides that can complement and balance its flavors. Here are some popular side dishes that go well with Chicken Dijon:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a great side, as they can help balance the tanginess of the Dijon mustard sauce.

2. Rice: White or brown rice is a simple and versatile side that can soak up the delicious sauce.

3. Pasta: Egg noodles or fettuccine are great choices, as they can be coated with the creamy Dijon sauce.

4. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed or blanched vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli can add a fresh and healthy element to the meal.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts can provide a nice contrast to the creamy chicken.

6. Salad: A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can serve as a refreshing side dish to balance the richness of the chicken.

7. Crusty Bread: A good baguette or French bread is perfect for mopping up the savory sauce.

8. Quinoa: For a healthier and protein-rich option, consider serving Chicken Dijon with quinoa.

9. Herbed Couscous: Herbed couscous adds a flavorful and slightly nutty side dish.

10. Ratatouille: This classic French vegetable stew made with tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, and peppers can complement the chicken with its Mediterranean flavors.

11. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can provide a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm chicken

12. French Fries or Pommes Frites: For a classic bistro feel, you can serve Chicken Dijon with French fries.

13. Polenta: Creamy polenta or cornmeal mush is a comforting option to serve alongside the chicken.

14. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs can be a hearty side dish.

15. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Seasoned corn on the cob can add a sweet and smoky element to the meal.

The choice of side dish depends on your personal preferences and the overall theme of your meal. Feel free to mix and match sides to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal with Chicken Dijon.

Chicken Dijon is not typically considered a spicy dish due to the mustard. Dijon mustard, which is a key ingredient in the dish, has a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, but it is generally not overly hot or spicy. It provides a pleasant, zesty kick to the creamy sauce without being overwhelmingly hot.

The level of spiciness in the dish can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a milder Dijon mustard or reduce the amount of mustard in the recipe.

Conversely, if you enjoy a spicier kick, you can opt for a spicier Dijon mustard variety or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Overall, Chicken Dijon is known for its balanced combination of creamy and tangy flavorsy with the mustard providing a unique depth of taste rather than overwhelming spiciness. It's a versatile dish that you can adapt to your preferred level of heat.

Here's a recipe for this delicious and elegant dish:

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)

PREPARATION:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown crust. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze and release any flavorful bits. Allow the mixture to simmer and reduce by about half, which should take 5-7 minutes.
5. Whisk in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream, and continue to simmer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
6. If you want a richer sauce, you can whisk in the butter at this stage until it's fully incorporated.
7. Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet to warm them up and coat them with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve the French Chicken Dijon with the creamy mustard sauce spooned over the top.

Garnish with fresh tarragon or thyme if desired.

French Chicken Dijon is often served with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.

This dish offers a delightful balance of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors that's sure to impress your taste buds and those of anyone you serve it to. Enjoy!