Apricot-Dijon Mustard Chicken
Apricot-Dijon Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a sweet and tangy apricot mustard sauce. The couscous serves as a perfect base, absorbing the flavorful sauce. This dish is ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, showcasing a unique blend of flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan; stir in couscous.
- Cover; remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove couscous to a serving platter; set aside and keep warm.
- Combine apricot nectar and Dijon mustard in a large skillet; bring to a boil.
- Add chicken; cover.
- Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until done.
- Remove chicken from skillet, reserving liquid from skillet.
- Place chicken on top of reserved couscous; set aside and keep warm.
- Bring liquid to a boil; cook, uncovered, 10 minutes.
- Spoon sauce over chicken; sprinkle with minced basil.
- Garnish if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the apricot nectar and Dijon mustard mixture for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have apricot nectar, peach or mango nectar can be a delicious substitute. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also enhance the dish. Consider using whole grain couscous for more texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Apricot-Dijon Mustard Chicken over a bed of couscous, garnished with fresh basil. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Mixed Greens for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a light salad. A glass of white wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and couscous in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot-Dijon Mustard Chicken contains roughly 255 calories, with 17g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value). At about 255 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What can I serve with the chicken aside from couscous?
In addition to couscous, consider serving the chicken with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a light salad. A side of creamy mashed potatoes could also work well for a comforting meal.
Can the dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the couscous and sauce in advance, and simply cook the chicken just before serving. This makes it easier for entertaining or weeknight dinners. Just store everything separately in the refrigerator until ready to heat and serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).