Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances zesty flavors and succulent chicken? Look no further than our Baked Mustard Chicken with Lemon Caper Rice! This mouthwatering recipe not only delivers a punch of flavor but also comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Imagine crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs glazed with tangy Dijon mustard, served atop a bed of fluffy rice infused with the bright notes of lemon and capers. Trust us, once you try this dish, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp capers
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Season chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Spread Dijon mustard evenly over the top of each chicken thigh, creating a thin, even coating.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side up in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
- In a separate saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Bake chicken in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in capers and fresh lemon juice. Mix gently to distribute flavors.
- Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Plate the lemon caper rice and place a mustard-glazed chicken thigh on top. Garnish with additional capers or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Crispy Chicken Skin: For the crispiest skin, be sure to pat the chicken thighs dry before seasoning. This helps to render the fat and achieve that golden-brown perfection.
- Don’t Overcrowd: When placing the chicken in the skillet, make sure there’s enough space between each thigh. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing that desired crispiness.
- Perfect Rice Texture: Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases steam and can affect the cooking process. Fluff it gently with a fork once it’s done for the best texture.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the garnish! Adding extra capers or fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top of the plated dish not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 50mg
