Cheesy Dijon Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts coated with flavorful breadcrumbs and Dijon mustard, topped with melted Cheddar cheese, served alongside savory broccoli Rice-A-Roni for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dry bread crumbs, dried basil, and onion powder in a shallow dish.
- Spread one side of each chicken breast with Dijon mustard.
- Coat the mustard-spread side of chicken with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Dip the coated chicken into beaten eggs, then coat again with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prepare Rice-A-Roni broccoli au gratin according to the package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 6 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked through.
- Top the cooked rice with the chicken breasts and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Cover and let stand for 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchy texture, consider using panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. If you're out of Dijon mustard, yellow mustard can work in a pinch, but it will alter the flavor slightly. You can also add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cheesy Dijon Chicken over the prepared Rice-A-Roni broccoli au gratin for a comforting meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad complements the dish well. For a heartier option, try pairing it with Golden Stuffed Potatoes. The melted Cheddar cheese adds a delicious richness that ties everything together.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cheesy Dijon Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also oven-reheat at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Dijon Chicken contains roughly 730 calories, with 29g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1066mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
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 chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts for a juicier result. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check for doneness before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and breadcrumb coating in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble right before cooking. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner when time is limited.
What can I use instead of Rice-A-Roni?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can prepare a simple rice dish with sautéed onions and broccoli. Alternatively, any flavored rice or couscous can be used as a base for the chicken, giving you flexibility with your pantry staples.
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).