Chicken with mustard sauce by Miha

Chicken with mustard sauce – a delicious and healthy dish

Are you looking for a quick, flavorful dinner with an appealing presentation? Then the Chicken with Mustard Sauce recipe is perfect for you! This recipe, adapted from a wonderful idea by Mihaela, combines the juicy taste of chicken breast with a flavorful mustard and garlic sauce, providing you with a meal that not only cooks quickly but is also extremely satisfying. Make some space in your kitchen, and let’s get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 14 minutes
Total time: 29 minutes
Servings: 2

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut lengthwise in half
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/3 head of garlic, peeled
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- A few broccoli florets

Recipe history

Mustard is an ingredient with a fascinating history, used since ancient times. Over the years, it has become an essential element in many cuisines around the world, due to its distinctive flavor and nutritional benefits. Chicken, as a source of lean protein, is often associated with healthy diets, and its combination with mustard and garlic not only adds extra flavor but also a touch of health. This simple recipe is perfect for a family dinner or even for a special meal with friends.

Preparing the mustard sauce

1. Start by preparing the mustard sauce. In a mortar, add the peeled garlic cloves and a pinch of salt. Use a pestle to crush the garlic until you obtain a fine paste. This step will not only intensify the garlic flavor but will also help to blend the sauce.

2. Gradually add the olive oil while continuously mixing. This is a classic technique that helps to emulsify the ingredients, creating a creamy and rich sauce.

3. Once you have a smooth paste, add the Dijon mustard and dried thyme. Mix well to combine all the flavors. The subtle flavor of Dijon mustard will perfectly integrate into the sauce, providing a refined and balanced taste.

Preparing the chicken

4. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This temperature is ideal for achieving a juicy and tender chicken breast.

5. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, generously cover it with the mustard sauce you prepared earlier. Make sure each piece is well coated in the sauce so that the flavors penetrate the meat well.

6. Place the chicken breast in a baking dish and put it in the preheated oven. Cook for 7 minutes, then flip it over and leave it in the oven for another 7 minutes. This cooking time ensures tender and juicy meat.

7. After the 14 minutes of cooking, cover the dish with aluminum foil and let the chicken breast rest for 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a softer meat.

Preparing the vegetables

8. While the chicken is resting, you can prepare the broccoli. Boil water in a pot and use a steamer or a sieve to steam the broccoli florets for 7 minutes. This method preserves the nutrients and vibrant color of the vegetable.

9. Once the broccoli is ready, sprinkle a little salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.

Serving

10. Serve the chicken breast alongside the steamed broccoli. You can add a spoonful of the leftover sauce from the chicken for extra flavor. A slice of lemon can add a touch of freshness, and a drizzle of olive oil over the broccoli will further enhance the taste.

Useful tips:

- You can experiment with different types of mustard: grainy mustard or sweet mustard can add an interesting flavor.
- Instead of broccoli, you can also use other steamed vegetables like carrots or cauliflower.
- If you enjoy stronger flavors, add a few fresh basil or chopped parsley leaves to the mustard sauce.

Nutritional benefits:

This dish is not only tasty but also healthy. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing muscles. Broccoli is rich in vitamins (C, K), minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
It is recommended to use fresh chicken, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure it is completely thawed before cooking.

2. What other side dishes can I serve with this dish?
In addition to broccoli, you can choose a green salad with lemon dressing, rice, or quinoa to complete the meal.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken and broccoli can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

I hope this Chicken with Mustard Sauce recipe brings you pleasant moments with your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your friends. Bon appétit!