Dijon Chicken with Panko Crust Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe that a memorable meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The Dijon Chicken with Panko Crust exemplifies this philosophy perfectly. Combining the tangy, sharp notes of Dijon mustard with a crispy, golden Panko breadcrumb coating and enriched with Parmesan cheese, this dish elevates simple chicken breasts into a gourmet experience. Its quick preparation and impressive presentation make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even intimate gatherings. The addition of a creamy Dijon sauce provides a luscious contrast, balancing the crispy exterior with a flavorful, velvety finish. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this recipe promises satisfying results that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Time

Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Oven (capable of reaching 500°F / 260°C)
• 10-by-15-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Food processor or grater (for Parmesan cheese)
• Tongs or fork (for coating chicken)
• Kitchen mallet or rolling pin (if pounding chicken)
• Cooking spray or oil (for greasing the pan)
• Small bowl (for Dijon sauce)
• Knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)

Tags

Gluten-Free, Low Carb, High Protein, Easy, Family-Friendly, Quick, Comfort Food, Elegant, Party Appetizer

Serving Size

Serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size

Difficulty Level

Intermediate: Requires basic skills in baking, coating, and sauce preparation, but nothing overly complex

Allergen Information

• Contains dairy (butter, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise)
• Contains gluten (panko breadcrumbs)
• Contains soy (soy sauce)
• May contain traces of nuts or other allergens depending on ingredients used

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian: No (contains chicken)

Vegan: No (contains dairy and eggs)

Keto/Low-Carb: Yes (if served without side carbs)

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

American, French-inspired

Ingredients

In a detailed table for clarity

Instructions

Preparation Phase

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan

Begin by setting your oven to preheat at an exceptionally high temperature—500°F (260°C). This ensures that the chicken develops a crisp, golden crust quickly without drying out. Simultaneously, lightly spray a 10-by-15-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray or coat it with a thin layer of oil. Lining the pan with parchment paper can also facilitate easier cleanup and prevent sticking, especially when working with sticky coatings or melted butter.

2. Prepare the Chicken

Take the chicken breasts and, if they are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even 1/2 inch thickness using a kitchen mallet or rolling pin. This step is critical to ensure uniform cooking and prevent some parts from overcooking while others remain underdone. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat or connective tissue, which can affect the texture and presentation.

3. Create the Coating Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and minced garlic cloves. The melted butter acts as an adhesive that helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken while also imparting richness. The Dijon mustard provides the signature tang that defines the dish, and the garlic adds a fragrant, savory layer. Whisking these ingredients ensures a smooth, homogeneous mixture that evenly coats each piece of chicken.

4. Prepare the Panko Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. This dry mixture forms the crunchy exterior of the chicken and is enriched with Parmesan for umami depth and parsley for freshness. Incorporating the parsley into the breadcrumb mixture ensures even distribution of flavor and color.

Coating and Baking

5. Coat the Chicken

Using tongs or a fork, dip each chicken breast into the butter-Dijon mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. The mixture should evenly cover the surface, allowing the subsequent breadcrumb layer to adhere well. Press each coated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumb mixture sticks firmly. For a more uniform coating, you can also flip the chicken to coat both sides, but typically, coating only the top side is sufficient if the chicken is pounded to even thickness.

6. Arrange in the Baking Pan

Place each breaded chicken breast in the prepared baking pan, crumb side up. Ensure that the pieces are spaced apart to allow hot air circulation, which promotes even baking and crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than baking.

7. Bake to Perfection

Transfer the baking pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. During this time, the panko crust will turn a beautiful golden brown and crispy, while the chicken cooks through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It’s advisable to check the doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If necessary, you can extend baking time in increments of 2-3 minutes, but avoid opening the oven door prematurely, as it can cause temperature fluctuations that affect crispiness.

Preparing the Dijon Sauce

8. Mix the Sauce

While the chicken bakes, prepare the creamy Dijon sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and optional sesame oil. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. The mayonnaise provides richness, balancing the acidity of Dijon, while soy sauce adds a savory umami note. Adjust the soy sauce to taste, starting with 1/2 tablespoon and increasing if desired. This sauce can be served on the side or drizzled atop the chicken for an added layer of flavor.

Final Assembly and Serving

9. Rest and Serve

Once the chicken reaches the desired crispiness and internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains moist and flavorful. Serve the crispy Dijon chicken with a generous drizzle of the sauce or with the sauce on the side for dipping. Complement with your favorite sides for a complete meal that balances textures and flavors beautifully.

Preparation Tips

• Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to promote uniform cooking and crispiness.
• Crust Adhesion: Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the butter-Dijon mixture before pressing into the breadcrumb mixture for maximum adherence.
• Crumb Quality: Use fresh panko breadcrumbs for optimal crunch; stale breadcrumbs tend to become soggy.
• High Heat: Baking at 500°F ensures rapid browning, but monitor closely to prevent burning. Adjust oven rack placement if necessary.
• Internal Temperature: Always check with a meat thermometer to confirm chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C). This guarantees safety and optimal texture.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the Dijon sauce or sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or chives on top before serving.
• To achieve an even crispness, consider broiling the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads, wraps, or pasta dishes for versatile meal options.
• Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard in the sauce for a more or less tangy flavor profile according to your preference.

Add-ons and Variations

• Herb Enrichment: Incorporate finely chopped rosemary or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for aromatic variations.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese Variations: Mix shredded Gruyère or mozzarella into the breadcrumb mixture for different cheesy profiles.
• Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with eggplant slices or firm tofu, use vegan mayonnaise and cheese alternatives, and ensure breadcrumbs are gluten-free.

Side Dishes

• Roasted seasonal vegetables (e.g., asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots)
• Garlic mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Fresh mixed greens salad with vinaigrette
• Crispy roasted potatoes or polenta
• Steamed rice or quinoa for a hearty grain side

Improvements and Customizations

Enhance the flavor profile by experimenting with different herbs and spices, such as tarragon or basil. To increase crunchiness, double coat the chicken by dipping it again in the butter mixture and breadcrumbs. For a more decadent version, drizzle with a balsamic glaze or add a sprinkle of additional Parmesan just before serving.

Save and Store

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to regain crispness. To freeze, place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Thighs may take an additional 5-8 minutes to cook through and may be juicier, which can affect the crispiness of the coating.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Not traditionally, as panko breadcrumbs contain gluten. However, gluten-free panko substitutes are available, and ensuring the other ingredients are gluten-free will make this dish suitable.

Can I prepare the coating ahead of time?

Yes. Mix the breadcrumb, Parmesan, and parsley in advance and store in an airtight container. Coat the chicken just before baking to ensure maximum crispiness.

What if I don’t have high-temperature oven?

Set your oven as high as it safely allows, typically around 450°F (232°C). Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning and ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

Conclusion

This Dijon Chicken with Panko Crust embodies the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. Its crispy exterior, complemented by a tangy Dijon sauce, creates a harmonious harmony of textures and flavors that elevate a humble chicken breast into an extraordinary meal. The recipe’s flexibility allows for numerous variations, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. As with all great recipes, attention to detail—especially in coating and baking—ensures a consistently excellent outcome. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next dinner party, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. Remember, at Love With Recipes, we cherish sharing recipes that bring joy and ease to your kitchen adventures—happy cooking!

References

• Williams Sonoma. (2021). Perfect Crispy Chicken. Retrieved from https://www.williams-sonoma.com
• Serious Eats. (2020). The Science of Crispy Coatings. Retrieved from https://www.seriouseats.com