Imagine a dish so elegant yet so simple that it transforms an ordinary chicken breast into a culinary masterpiece. This Baked Chicken with Tarragon and Dijon is your ticket to a gourmet meal that looks like it came straight from a Parisian kitchen, but can be prepared in just over an hour. Get ready to impress your dinner guests and elevate your home cooking game with this irresistible French-inspired recipe that combines the tangy kick of Dijon mustard with the delicate, aromatic notes of fresh tarragon.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice golden color.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, chopped fresh tarragon, and olive oil. Mix well until you have a smooth marinade. This blend will infuse the chicken with a delightful flavor.
- Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- Using a brush or your hands, evenly coat each chicken breast with the Dijon and tarragon mixture, ensuring that all sides are well covered. Let the chicken marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the baking dish.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the dish in a single layer.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- For a golden-brown finish, you may want to broil the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Serve the baked chicken with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Garnish with additional fresh tarragon if desired for an extra pop of flavor.
Tips
- Always pat your chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to keep the meat tender and juicy.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the Dijon-tarragon mixture for 30 minutes before cooking, if time allows.
- Choose fresh tarragon over dried for a more vibrant, authentic flavor profile.
- If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to create a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Don't skip the broiling step - it adds a beautiful color and slight crispness to the chicken's surface.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 110mg
