As the sun sets and the evening hush falls over my kitchen, there’s a certain comfort in preparing a dish that feels special yet effortless. Enter Mary Berry’s Dijon Chicken—a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into an overwhelmingly delightful feast. Picture this: crispy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic sauce, punctuated with the tang of Dijon mustard and the warmth of white wine. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknight dinners feel a bit like a celebration, and it’s perfect for those evenings when quick victories in the kitchen are a must.
In just under 30 minutes, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a luxurious meal brimming with flavor. Whether you’re looking to break away from takeout or simply crave a comforting, low-carb option, this recipe delivers both ease and deliciousness. Let’s dive into the details and make a dinner that you’ll want to return to over and over again!
Why is Mary Berry Dijon Chicken a Must-Try?
Comforting and Delightful: This dish wraps you in warmth with its creamy sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, making it a go-to for cozy nights.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
Low-Carb Winner: Ideal for those watching their carbs, this recipe is both satisfying and guilt-free.
Impressive yet Simple: Even novice cooks can serve a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Versatile Flavors: The use of Dijon mustard and white wine elevates this comforting dish into a fine dining experience right at home!
Serve It Your Way: Pair it with your choice of sides like steamed veggies or creamy mashed cauliflower. If you’re looking for more quick and tasty meals, check out our easy weeknight recipes to keep dinner exciting!
Mary Berry Dijon Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds richness and aids in browning the chicken; substitute with olive oil if preferred.
• Olive Oil – Used for frying to enhance flavor and prevent burning; can be fully replaced with butter.
• Banana Shallots – Provide a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor; substitute with regular shallots or finely chopped onions.
• Garlic Cloves – Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor; can use garlic powder (½ teaspoon) as an alternative.
• White Wine – Adds acidity and enhances the sauce’s depth; can replace with chicken/vegetable broth or non-alcoholic white wine.
• Dijon Mustard – Key flavor component that brings tanginess to the sauce; can substitute with whole grain or honey mustard, though Dijon is essential.
• Double Cream – Creates a rich and velvety sauce; substitute with heavy cream or milk for a lighter option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors; adjust to taste.
• Chives – Fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor; substitute with parsley if needed.
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless) – Main protein source, cooked for tenderness; can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor.
Indulge your senses with this satisfying Mary Berry Dijon Chicken—perfect for making a weeknight-inspired dinner feel extraordinary!
How to Make Mary Berry Dijon Chicken
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Heat Ingredients: In a deep frying pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and fully combined, creating a rich base for cooking the chicken.
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Season Chicken: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
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Brown Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot pan. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown, then remove them and set aside on a plate.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, toss in the banana shallots and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, add the garlic and cook for 5-10 minutes until soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
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Add Wine: Pour in the white wine, allowing it to boil vigorously for about 5 minutes. This reduces the wine by two-thirds and intensifies the flavors.
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Incorporate Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the Dijon mustard and double cream, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens and becomes creamy.
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Combine Chicken: Return the browned chicken with any juices back into the pan. Cover and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, ensuring the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
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Serve: Plate the succulent chicken and spoon the creamy sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with roasted vegetables or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Mary Berry Dijon Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline weeknight dinners! You can marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance to enhance their flavor and tenderness. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply sauté the shallots and garlic, then add the white wine, mustard, and cream before refrigerating. To finish the meal, cook the marinated chicken and combine it with the sauce on the day you plan to serve. This way, you’ll have a delightful, restaurant-quality dish ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you had made it all in one go!
Mary Berry Dijon Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these imaginative variations and substitutions to personalize your dish in delightful ways!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of double cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative that adds a hint of sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme while cooking for aromatic notes that elevate the flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a subtle kick that brightens the dish.
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Zesty Twist: Include a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a bright, zesty finish that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
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Mustard Variety: Experiment with different mustards like whole grain or spicy Dijon for unique flavors and textures in your sauce.
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Vegetable Boost: Sauté spinach or kale along with the aromatics for a nutritious addition that adds color and health benefits to your meal.
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Flavorful Broth: Swap white wine for homemade or low-sodium chicken broth to maintain depth without the alcohol.
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Texture Change: For extra crunch, top your finished dish with toasted almond slices or crispy shallots before serving.
Embrace this chance to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the wonderful journey of flavors it brings!
What to Serve with Mary Berry Dijon Chicken?
Gather around the table for a full-flavored meal that complements the creamy bliss of your chicken dish.
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Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this buttery side balances perfectly with the rich sauce. The creamy texture makes it an excellent vehicle for soaking up every last drop.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans provide a nice contrast to the rich chicken. Their fresh flavor and vibrant color brighten the plate while adding a nutritious element.
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Herbed Quinoa: This light, fluffy grain dish rounds out your meal beautifully. Infused with herbs and a squeeze of lemon, it adds brightness that lifts the flavors of the Dijon chicken.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and nutty flavor create an outstanding complement for the creamy sauce. Plus, they add a delightful crunch to your cozy dinner spread.
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Crusty French Bread: Ideal for mopping up that luscious sauce, a warm loaf adds a comforting touch. The chewy texture and crusty exterior provide the perfect contrast to the creamy chicken.
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Oaked Chardonnay: A glass of this elegant wine enhances the dish’s flavors beautifully, emphasizing the richness of the sauce. The buttery notes meld perfectly with your creamy creation.
Embrace these pairings, and you’ll elevate your meal to a delightful culinary experience!
How to Store and Freeze Mary Berry Dijon Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the creamy Dijon chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pan to restore the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out.
Serving Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but properly stored leftover Mary Berry Dijon Chicken remains delicious for quick meals on busy nights!
Expert Tips for Mary Berry Dijon Chicken
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Skillet Technique: Use the flavorful bits left in the pan after browning the chicken; they add depth to the sauce.
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Don’t Rush Browning: Allow chicken to sear until golden for maximum flavor; undercooking will affect the overall taste.
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Simmer Gently: Once you add the sauce, lower the heat to prevent overcooking the chicken and keep it juicy.
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Season Well: Always taste the sauce before serving; adjusting salt and pepper ensures balanced flavors in your Mary Berry Dijon Chicken.
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Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepped in advance; simply reheat gently to enjoy a quick and delightful meal anytime.
Mary Berry Dijon Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I pick the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. If you prefer a richer flavor, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. Look for chicken that feels firm and has a pinkish hue without any discoloration.
What is the best way to store leftover Mary Berry Dijon Chicken?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. I often reheat it gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce. This ensures you enjoy the same great flavors as when you first made it!
Can I freeze Mary Berry Dijon Chicken?
Certainly! Just place the chicken in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 2-3 months. It’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pan; this brings back the creaminess of the sauce and prevents it from drying out.
What should I do if the sauce is too thin?
If you find that the sauce hasn’t thickened enough, here’s what you can do: after returning the chicken to the pan, let it simmer gently for an additional 5-7 minutes. This will help reduce the sauce further. Alternatively, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water, adding it to the sauce to thicken it up.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the double cream with unsweetened coconut milk or a non-dairy heavy cream alternative. Just remember to adjust the seasoning, as these substitutes can alter the flavor slightly.
Are there any dietary considerations for serving this dish to my pets?
While the ingredients are safe for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing Mary Berry Dijon Chicken with pets. Onions and garlic, which are present in this dish, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep their safety in mind when enjoying your culinary delights!
Mary Berry Dijon Chicken: A Creamy Twist for Weeknight Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a deep frying pan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and fully combined.
- Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot pan. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown, then remove them and set aside.
- In the same pan, toss in the banana shallots and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, add the garlic and cook for 5-10 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine, allowing it to boil vigorously for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and double cream, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Return the browned chicken with any juices back into the pan. Cover and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes.
- Plate the chicken and spoon the creamy sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh chives.
