Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken
Try this Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken recipe.
Try this Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken recipe.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts or 2 large cut i
- salt pepper garlic powder for seasoning the chicken
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled (how to bake baco
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa cooked according to package direct
- Carbohydrate 40.8548133742852 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 15.4223466736767 g
- Fiber 2.015333310414 g
- Protein 2.63660000753613 g
- Saturated Fat 1.95149866711139 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (129g)
- Sodium 686.356668628252 mg
- Sugar 38.8394800638712 g
- Trans Fat 0.458118666978801 g
- Calories 301 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook 1 cup quinoa according to package directions.
- As the quinoa is cooking, prepare the chicken by seasoning it liberally with salt, black pepper and garlic powder.
- Heat 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- When the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken reaches a temperature of 165 degrees.
- To make the sauce: combine 1/4 cup dijon mustard with 1/4 cup real maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- When the quinoa is done cooking, stir in half of the cooked bacon, and half of the sauce.
- When the chicken is done cooking, transfer it to a plate and spoon the remaining sauce over the chicken.
- Cover with a foil tent and allow to rest for a few minutes.
- To serve, place a heaping spoonful of the quinoa on a plate. Top with a piece of chicken, then sprinkle bacon on top.
- Serve this Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken with sugar snap peas seasoned with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Enjoy!
Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present to-do list. But even amidst the chaos, I refuse to compromise on a nourishing and flavorful meal. That's where my Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken comes in – a recipe that's quick, easy, and surprisingly elegant.
This dish is a testament to the power of simple ingredients elevated by a touch of culinary creativity. The sweet and savory combination of maple syrup and bacon perfectly complements the tangy Dijon mustard, creating a rich and complex sauce that coats the juicy chicken breasts. The fluffy quinoa adds a healthy dose of carbohydrates, while the sugar snap peas provide a refreshing crunch and a pop of color. It's a balanced meal that satisfies both my palate and my desire for wholesome eating.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the sugar snap peas for other vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. If you're not a fan of quinoa, brown rice or even mashed sweet potatoes would be delightful substitutes. The core elements – the maple bacon Dijon sauce and the perfectly cooked chicken – remain the stars of the show, regardless of the supporting cast.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is the speed at which it comes together. From start to finish, this meal can be on the table in under 30 minutes. That's a significant win in the busy weeknight battle! The prep work is minimal, and the cooking process is straightforward. Even on nights when I'm feeling particularly exhausted, I can whip up this Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken without breaking a sweat.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this recipe is a winner because it's so versatile. It's fantastic for a weeknight dinner, but it also holds its own as a more elegant meal for entertaining guests. I've served it at numerous gatherings, and it consistently receives rave reviews. The presentation is simple yet sophisticated, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
The key to the success of this dish lies in the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the maple syrup is counteracted by the sharpness of the Dijon mustard, while the saltiness of the bacon adds a depth of flavor that's simply irresistible. The garlic powder in the chicken adds an aromatic warmth that beautifully compliments the other ingredients. Don't be shy with the seasoning – it's crucial to create that perfect taste symphony.
This Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the possibility of creating delicious, healthy meals even amidst the whirlwind of a busy life. It's a dish that nourishes both body and soul, proving that even on the busiest of evenings, a little culinary creativity can go a long way. So, next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious weeknight dinner, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use boneless, skin-on chicken breasts for extra flavor and richness.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the quinoa for added texture and flavor.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Maple Bacon Dijon Chicken!
