Dijon Chicken with Panko Crust
This mouthwatering Dijon Chicken with Panko Crust is the epitome of easy yet impressive cooking. This recipe, with its blend of tangy Dijon mustard, crunchy panko breadcrumbs, and savory Parmesan cheese, brings a delightful twist to your typical chicken dinner. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight family meal or a casual gathering. The crispy, golden crust paired with a luscious Dijon sauce creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making every bite a savory delight. Let’s dive into how you can create this delectable dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter: Melted, for brushing the chicken.
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, sharp flavor to the chicken.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, for a fragrant, savory kick.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light, crispy coating.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a burst of freshness and color.
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves: The main protein, thinly sliced for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: For the creamy Dijon sauce.
- 1/4 cup additional Dijon mustard: For the sauce, to enhance the tangy flavor.
- 1/2 – 1 tablespoon soy sauce: For a hint of umami and depth.
Instructions
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Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C). Lightly spray a 10-by-15-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your chicken doesn’t stick and makes for easier cleanup.
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Mix the Coating Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
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Prepare the Panko Mixture: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This blend creates the crispy, flavorful crust for the chicken.
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Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast half and dip it into the butter mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, it’s a good idea to pound them to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Next, press the coated side of the chicken into the panko mixture, making sure it’s evenly covered.
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Arrange in Baking Pan: Place the breaded chicken breasts, crumb side up, in the prepared baking pan. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow even cooking.
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Bake the Chicken: Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the crumbs are golden brown and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts, so it’s best to cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check that it’s fully cooked.
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Prepare the Dijon Sauce: While the chicken bakes, prepare the Dijon sauce. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, and 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce. Stir until well combined. This sauce is perfect for drizzling over the crispy chicken or for dipping.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it with the Dijon sauce on the side, and enjoy the delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Tips for Success
- Even Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Check for Doneness: Always cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked through; it should be white and not pink.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce in the Dijon sauce to suit your taste preferences.
This Dijon Chicken with Panko Crust is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of crunchy panko, savory Parmesan, and tangy Dijon makes each bite a delightful experience. Enjoy this dish as a main course for dinner, or serve it at your next gathering to impress your guests. 🌟🍗🧄
