Lemon Dijon Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts coated in lemon and Dijon flavors, topped with crispy breadcrumbs, perfect for a bright, savory dinner suitable for family or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine breadcrumbs and lemon rind, stirring well.
- Mix lemon juice, mustard, and lime juice; brush mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Dredge chicken in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place chicken in a baking dish coated with pan spray or coating.
- Sprinkle remaining breadcrumbs over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, then turn over and bake an additional 15 minutes. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute fine breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. For a zestier profile, you can increase the amount of lemon juice or add a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Lemon Dijon Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with quinoa or rice pilaf for a heartier option. A glass of chilled white wine would complement the flavors perfectly. For more chicken inspiration, browse more American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Lemon Dijon Chicken 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 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overheat, which can dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Dijon Chicken contains roughly 297 calories, with 28g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value). At about 297 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 bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. Bone-in pieces will generally take longer to cook; ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken breasts in the lemon and mustard mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to dredge them in breadcrumbs right before baking for the best texture.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If you don't have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard as alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but they'll still complement the lemon and chicken well.
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).