Chicken Dijon
If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet flavorful dish that can impress at any dinner table, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Chicken Dijon is not only easy to prepare but also brings together the rich flavors of garlic, honey, and, of course, Dijon mustard for a delightful culinary experience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend gathering, as it comes together in just one pan, leaving you with minimal cleanup and maximum taste.
The Upside of Chicken Dijon
Chicken Dijon has all the elements of a well-balanced meal: protein, flavor, and a touch of sweetness. The skin-on chicken thighs provide a juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the tangy mustard and the natural sweetness of honey. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. The garlic adds depth to the flavor profile, making this dish a standout on any table.
Ingredient Rundown
To make Chicken Dijon, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb chicken thighs, deboned and skin on: Juicy and tender, the thighs are perfect for this recipe, adding richness and flavor.
- 1 pinch salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 2 teaspoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and adding healthy fats.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant base that elevates the dish.
- 3 tablespoons honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances the tanginess of the mustard.
- 3 teaspoons Dijon mustard: The star ingredient that gives this dish its name and flavor punch.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps to create a sauce that brings everything together.
- 1 pinch salt: An additional touch to refine the flavors.
Recommended Tools
Before diving into the cooking process, gather these handy tools:
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and making the sauce.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up any delicious bits from the pan.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked safely and perfectly.
- Measuring spoons: For accuracy in measuring ingredients.
- Garlic press: Optional, but makes mincing garlic a breeze.
Chicken Dijon — Do This Next
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season them generously with a pinch of salt and black pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Let the chicken sear for about 5-7 minutes without moving it around. This will allow the skin to get crispy and golden brown.
Step 4: Flip and Add Garlic
Once the skin is nice and crispy, flip the chicken thighs. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and water. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). If not, let it cook a little longer.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, transfer the chicken to a serving platter, spoon the sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Swap Guide
Feel free to customize this dish with these swaps:
- Chicken breasts: If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well.
- Maple syrup: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet flavor.
- Garlic powder: If fresh garlic isn’t available, use garlic powder instead (1/2 teaspoon per clove).
- Whole grain mustard: For a different mustard flavor, swap out Dijon for whole grain mustard.
- Vegetable broth: Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor in the sauce.
What I Learned Testing
- Cooking the chicken skin-side down first is critical for achieving that coveted crispy texture.
- Allowing the sauce to simmer after adding the honey and mustard creates a deeper flavor that enhances the chicken.
- Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken, ensuring it’s safe to eat while remaining juicy.
- Pairing this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad truly elevates the meal.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers, you’re in luck! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: If you want to extend the life of your Chicken Dijon, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: When ready to eat, gently reheat in a skillet on low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for Chicken Dijon?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used, but cooking time will vary. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What can I serve with Chicken Dijon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Can I make Chicken Dijon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance. Just reheat before serving.
Is Chicken Dijon gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure the Dijon mustard is gluten-free, this dish can be enjoyed by those following a gluten-free diet.
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love one-pan meals as much as I do, here are some additional ideas you might enjoy:
- Pesto Chicken
- One-Pan Chicken Vegetable Stir-Fry
- One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken
- One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs
Before You Go
Now that you have the recipe for Chicken Dijon under your belt, it’s time to unleash your culinary creativity! This dish is not only delicious but also versatile enough to adapt to your own taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sides or ingredient swaps. Cooking should be a joyful experience, and I hope this Chicken Dijon becomes a new favorite in your home. Enjoy every bite!
Chicken Dijon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with a pinch of salt and black pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down.
- Let the chicken sear for about 5-7 minutes without moving it around to get crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the chicken thighs and add the minced garlic to the pan, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, and water. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C). If not, let it cook a little longer.
- Once done, transfer the chicken to a serving platter, spoon the sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a leaner option, substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Maple syrup can replace honey for a different sweet flavor.
- If fresh garlic isn’t available, use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder per clove as a substitution.
