Mary Berry Chicken Dijon

Dive into the sophisticated world of Mary Berry's Chicken Dijon, a dish that embodies the elegance and simplicity of classic French cuisine with a touch of Mary Berry's quintessential British charm. This recipe showcases tender chicken breasts bathed in a creamy, tangy Dijon mustard sauce, perfectly balanced with the richness of white wine and the subtle flavors of garlic and shallots. Ideal for a gourmet dinner at home, this dish is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, making it a great choice for both special occasions and weeknight dinners alike.

Ingredients for Mary Berry's Chicken Dijon

• Butter: 25g (1 ounce), salted
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Chicken Breasts: 6 small pieces, approximately 150g each, skinless and boneless
• Banana Shallots: 1, finely sliced
• Garlic Cloves: 2, crushed
• White Wine: 300ml (10 fl oz)
• Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons
• Pouring Double Cream: 300ml (10 fl oz)
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste
• Fresh Chives: A few, finely snipped for garnish

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by heating butter and olive oil in a deep frying pan until they blend together harmoniously.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pan. Allow each side to brown over high heat for about 3-4 minutes until each piece is beautifully golden.
3. Remove the chicken and set it aside, then add the shallots to the pan. Sauté them until they become soft and slightly browned.
4. Deglaze the pan with white wine, allowing it to reduce before stirring in the mustard and cream to create a thick, flavorful sauce.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, simmering until fully cooked and tender. Finally, garnish the dish with snipped fresh chives before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Mary Berry's Chicken Dijon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the rich, creamy sauce of the chicken.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts. They may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.
• What can I use instead of white wine? For a non-alcoholic version, chicken broth can be used as a substitute for white wine, maintaining the depth of flavor.
• Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and reheated, adding the chicken just before serving to ensure it remains tender and juicy.

This recipe, inspired by Mary Berry, is more than just a meal; it's a journey through the flavors that have made her a household name in the culinary world. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, Mary Berry's Chicken Dijon is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that's both comforting and elegant​​​​​​.