Chicken Dijon Parmesan
Tender chicken breasts coated with Dijon mustard, Parmesan, and cracker crumbs, baked to perfection. A flavorful, crispy dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place each chicken breast on a cookie sheet.
- Mix melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic salt, cracker crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl.
- Brush or spread the mixture over each chicken breast.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
- Serve with wild rice with added cooked wild rice and slivered almonds.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. If you don't have cracker crumbs, crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. Ensure even cooking by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness before baking. This recipe is also adaptable; try using pork chops instead of chicken for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with wild rice, as suggested in the recipe, which adds a nice nutty flavor and texture. For additional sides, consider steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. A light white wine can enhance the meal if you're looking for a drink pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken Dijon Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture of the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Dijon Parmesan contains roughly 288 calories, with 24g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 288 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 other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that each cheese will melt differently, so adjust the baking time if necessary to avoid overcooking the chicken.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this dish healthier, you can use olive oil instead of butter and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables instead of rice for a lower-carb option. Additionally, using skinless chicken thighs can add moisture without adding extra calories.
What can I do if I have leftover sauce?
If you have leftover butter and mustard mixture, consider using it as a drizzle over steamed vegetables or as a dressing for salads. You can also mix it into cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful side dish. Just make sure to use it within a few days for the best quality.
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).