Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken Recipe

Introduction

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that combines both crunch and flavor, and this Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken does just that. My family absolutely loved this recipe—it became an instant favorite. The crispy cornflake coating gives the chicken a delightful crunch, while the sweet and tangy maple Dijon sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish always impresses. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to in our household!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 6 cups cornflakes (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 2 pounds chicken breast tenderloins
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Fresh thyme or parsley, for serving

For the Maple Dijon Sauce:

• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
• 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• Sea salt, to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Prepare Coating

2. In a food processor, combine cornflakes, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, you can place the ingredients in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin or by stepping on the bag. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow bowl.

Coat the Chicken

3. In a bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them thoroughly.
4. Dredge each piece of chicken in the cornflake mixture, pressing to ensure an even coating. For a thicker crust, dip the chicken back in the egg and then again in the cornflake crumbs.
5. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil.

Bake

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and crispy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Make the Maple Dijon Sauce

7. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, chipotle chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Warm over low heat, stirring until smooth and heated through.

Serve

8. Drizzle the warm sauce over the baked chicken and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. If the sauce thickens, microwave it for a few seconds to loosen before serving.

Enjoy this flavorful, crunchy chicken dish with a hint of sweet and spicy maple Dijon sauce!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 140mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Drizzle the maple Dijon sauce over the chicken right before serving.
• Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for added color and flavor.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as:
• Steamed vegetables
• Mashed potatoes
• Rice or quinoa
• A fresh garden salad

Additional Tips

1. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornflakes to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
2. Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of hot sauce in both the chicken coating and the sauce to suit your family’s spice tolerance.
3. Make Ahead: You can prepare the cornflake mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a week.
4. Chicken Cuts: This recipe works well with chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders, so feel free to use your preferred cut.
5. Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like oregano or rosemary to the cornflake mixture for an extra flavor boost.
• Sweet and Spicy: Mix a bit of honey or brown sugar into the maple Dijon sauce for additional sweetness.
• Crispy Parmesan: Increase the Parmesan cheese in the coating for an even cheesier crust.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with tofu or seitan and use a flax egg as a binding agent.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the chicken.
• For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, serve with iced herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the coated chicken before baking. Place the coated chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

• Yes, chicken breasts can be cut into similar-sized pieces and will work perfectly.

1. What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

• You can substitute with yellow mustard or honey mustard, but it will alter the flavor slightly.

1. Can I bake this chicken in advance?

• Yes, you can bake it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven just before serving.

1. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

• Yes, increase the amount of hot sauce or add fresh chopped jalapeños to the coating.

1. Can I use a different type of cereal for the coating?

• Absolutely! Panko breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal can also work well.

1. What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

• You can substitute with dried thyme; just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

1. Can I make this recipe in the air fryer?

• Yes! Cook the chicken at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

1. How do I know when the chicken is done?

• Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, just make sure you have enough baking sheets and oven space to cook everything evenly.

1. What can I serve this with?
   • It pairs well with vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

Conclusion

Baked Crunchy Maple Dijon Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its crispy exterior and rich, flavorful sauce, this dish brings together sweet and savory elements that will please any palate. Whether for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients and enjoy a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and utterly delicious!

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