Dive into the delightful flavors of this Walnut Herb Chicken and Vegetables recipe. An ideal dinner dish, it combines the juicy tenderness of chicken cutlets with the crunchy goodness of walnuts. The addition of herbs and vegetables make it a wholesome meal. This recipe is simple to follow, requiring just one baking dish, and it's sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
This recipe uses some readily available ingredients like chicken, milk, mustard, and vegetables. However, there are a few ingredients that you may need to look out for in the supermarket. You might not have panko crumbs or dried herbs like parsley, basil, and rosemary at home, but they can be easily found in the baking or spices aisle of your local grocery store. Also, finely chopped walnuts are used in this recipe, which can be found in the nut section.
Ingredients for Walnut Herb Chicken and Vegetables
Chicken cutlets: These are pieces of chicken that have been sliced thin and then pounded to make them even thinner and tender.
Milk: Used for coating the chicken before dredging in the crumb mixture.
Dijon Mustard: This gives the chicken a tangy flavor.
Panko crumbs: These are Japanese breadcrumbs that give a light, crispy coating.
Walnuts: Finely chopped, they give a nice crunch and a wonderful flavor to the chicken.
Parmesan: Adds a salty, savory flavor to the chicken.
Dried herbs (Parsley, Basil, Rosemary): These herbs enhance the flavor of the chicken and vegetables.
Baby Potatoes: These smaller potatoes cook more quickly than full-sized potatoes.
Carrots: They add color, flavor, and many nutrients to the dish.
Broccoli: A great source of vitamins K and C, a good source of folate (folic acid) and also provides potassium.
Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor.
Yellow bell pepper: Adds a sweet flavor and vibrant color.
One reader, Hermia Rhodes says:
This walnut herb chicken and vegetables recipe is a game-changer! The combination of crunchy walnuts and aromatic herbs creates a burst of flavor. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the veggies are perfectly roasted. It's a delightful and wholesome meal that's now a staple in my kitchen. Highly recommend!
Cooking Techniques to Master for This Recipe
How to pound the chicken: Place the chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and quickly.
How to dredge in crumb mixture: After removing the chicken from the milk mixture, coat it evenly with the panko and walnut mixture by pressing the crumbs onto the chicken with your hands.
How to arrange chopped veggies around the chicken: Place the chopped vegetables around the chicken on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spread out evenly to allow for even cooking.
How to drizzle in olive oil: Evenly drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and vegetables to ensure they are coated for roasting.
How to flip chicken and veggies: Carefully use a spatula to flip the chicken and toss the vegetables to ensure even browning and cooking on both sides.
How To Make Walnut Herb Chicken and Vegetables
This herb chicken meal is crusted with a crispy walnut-panko exterior, and served with a side of tender carrots and potatoes, for a mouthwatering meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupmilk
- 2tbspdijon mustard
- 6ozchicken cutlets
- ⅓cuppanko crumbs
- ⅓cupwalnuts,finely chopped
- 2tbspparmesan
- 1tbspdried parsley
- 2tspdried basil
- 1tspdried rosemary
- ¼tspkosher salt
- ¼tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1cupbaby potatoes,sliced thin
- 1cupcarrots,sliced in half
- 1cupbroccoli
- red bell pepper
- yellow bell pepper
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Pound the chicken so that they are about ½ thickness.
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Combine the milk and mustard in a shallow dish stirring with a whisk. Add the chicken to the milk, turning to coat.
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Combine the panko crumbs with finely chopped walnuts, parsley, basil, Parmesan, rosemary, salt and pepper in a separate dish.
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Remove the chicken from the milk mixture and dredge in the crumb mixture.
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Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray.
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Lay the chicken on top. Arrange the chopped vegetables around the chicken. Add salt and pepper, then drizzle in olive oil.
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Bake for 10 minutes and flip the chicken and vegetables. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 427.45kcal
- Fat: 14.84g
- Saturated Fat: 3.19g
- Trans Fat: 0.05g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.22g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.74g
- Carbohydrates: 54.97g
- Fiber: 4.90g
- Sugar: 4.96g
- Protein: 18.90g
- Cholesterol: 31.90mg
- Sodium: 532.29mg
- Calcium: 238.84mg
- Potassium: 481.98mg
- Iron: 2.24mg
- Vitamin A: 289.98µg
- Vitamin C: 30.19mg
One Simple Trick for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
When preparing the chicken, it's important to ensure that it's pounded to an even thickness. This not only allows the chicken to cook more evenly, but also helps the panko crumbs and walnuts adhere better, creating a more uniform and crispy coating. Additionally, when arranging the vegetables around the chicken on the baking sheet, try to cut them into similar sizes. This ensures that all the vegetables cook at the same rate and are done at the same time as the chicken.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavors and save time on the day of cooking.
One pan wonder: Use a large baking sheet to cook the chicken and vegetables together, saving time on cleanup.
Chop smart: Use pre-cut vegetables or a food processor to quickly chop the veggies and save time on prep work.
Multitask: While the chicken is baking, use that time to prepare a simple side salad or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Walnut Herb Chicken and Vegetables Recipe
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative in this recipe, providing a similar creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor.
dijon mustard - Substitute with whole grain mustard: Whole grain mustard can be used as a substitute for Dijon mustard, adding a slightly coarser texture and a more pronounced mustard seed flavor to the dish.
chicken cutlets - Substitute with turkey cutlets: Turkey cutlets can be used as a lean alternative to chicken cutlets, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
panko crumbs - Substitute with breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko crumbs, providing a similar crunchy coating for the chicken.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans can be used as a substitute for walnuts, offering a similar rich and buttery flavor with a slightly different texture.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute for Parmesan, providing a similar salty and tangy flavor to the dish.
dried parsley - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for dried parsley, adding a vibrant and herbaceous flavor to the dish.
dried basil - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for dried basil, offering a more aromatic and fresh flavor to the recipe.
dried rosemary - Substitute with fresh rosemary: Fresh rosemary can be used as a substitute for dried rosemary, providing a more intense and fragrant herb flavor to the dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the recipe.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, offering a milder and slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a neutral flavor and high smoke point for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
baby potatoes - Substitute with fingerling potatoes: Fingerling potatoes can be used as a substitute for baby potatoes, offering a similar small size and creamy texture when roasted.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can be used as a substitute for carrots, providing a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor to the dish.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, offering a similar texture and the ability to absorb the flavors of the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, providing a similar sweet and crisp flavor to the recipe.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell pepper can be used as a substitute for yellow bell pepper, offering a slightly different flavor and color to the dish.
Plating Ideas for an Impressive Presentation
Elevate the plating: Arrange the chicken cutlet on the plate with a slight overlap, creating a visually appealing presentation. Place the vegetables alongside the chicken, ensuring they are evenly distributed and add a pop of color to the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and basil over the chicken and vegetables to add a touch of vibrant green and enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a sprinkle of finely chopped walnuts on top of the chicken to provide a delightful crunch and elevate the dish's sensory experience.
Utilize color contrast: Arrange the vibrant red and yellow bell peppers strategically on the plate to create a visually striking contrast against the green broccoli and the golden-brown chicken.
Create a balanced composition: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring a harmonious balance of colors, shapes, and textures to captivate the judges' attention.
Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile and essential tool for cutting and preparing various ingredients.
- Baking sheet: Used for baking and roasting dishes in the oven.
- Whisk: Ideal for blending and mixing ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring out ingredients for the recipe.
- Aluminum foil: Used for lining baking sheets and wrapping food for baking.
- Cooking spray: To prevent food from sticking to baking sheets or pans.
- Oven: For baking and roasting the chicken and vegetables.
- Shallow dish: Used for coating the chicken in the milk and mustard mixture.
- Mixing bowls: For combining and mixing ingredients together.
- Spatula: For flipping and turning the chicken and vegetables during cooking.
- Olive oil drizzler: For evenly distributing olive oil over the chicken and vegetables.
- Pounding tool (optional): Used for pounding the chicken to an even thickness, if desired.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Let the walnut herb chicken and vegetables cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will prevent condensation from forming and keep the food fresh for longer.
- Store the leftover chicken and vegetables in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to consume them within this timeframe for the best quality and taste.
- If you want to freeze the leftovers, place the cooled chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date of freezing, so you can easily keep track of how long the food has been stored.
- When freezing, it's best to store the chicken and vegetables separately. This allows you to thaw and reheat only the portions you need, as they may have different reheating times.
- Frozen walnut herb chicken and vegetables can be stored for up to 2-3 months. However, keep in mind that the quality may deteriorate over time, so it's best to consume them sooner rather than later.
- To reheat the frozen leftovers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat the chicken and vegetables in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop until they are heated through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the chicken.
- If you're reheating the leftovers in the microwave, be sure to use a microwave-safe container and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent the food from drying out.
- When reheating the vegetables, you may need to add a splash of water or olive oil to help them retain their moisture and prevent them from becoming too dry or soggy.
The Best Ways to Reheat Leftovers
The best way to reheat leftover walnut herb chicken is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the coating is crispy again. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the chicken.
For the vegetables, you can also reheat them in the oven alongside the chicken. Spread the vegetables out on a separate baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the chicken and vegetables in the microwave. Place the chicken and vegetables on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Keep in mind that the coating on the chicken may not be as crispy as when reheated in the oven.
Another option is to repurpose your leftover walnut herb chicken and vegetables into a new dish. Chop up the chicken and vegetables and add them to a salad, or use them as a filling for a sandwich or wrap. You can also mix them with some cooked pasta or rice to create a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
If you have a lot of leftover vegetables, consider blending them into a soup. Simply place the vegetables in a pot with some chicken broth or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, and then use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. This is a great way to use up any extra carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers.
Fascinating Trivia About Walnut Herb Chicken
The walnut herb chicken and vegetables recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines the rich flavors of walnuts with the savory taste of chicken and a variety of colorful vegetables. This recipe provides a healthy dose of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a great option for a balanced meal. The combination of dijon mustard, panko crumbs, and finely chopped walnuts creates a flavorful and crunchy coating for the chicken, while the assortment of vegetables adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. This recipe is a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly or Splurge-Worthy?
This walnut herb chicken and vegetables recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken cutlets, walnuts, and vegetables, are relatively affordable and widely available. The use of pantry staples like dried herbs and olive oil also keeps the cost down. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9 out of 10 for its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious flavors.
Is This Dish Healthy or Not So Much?
The walnut herb chicken and vegetables recipe is a relatively healthy dish with a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The use of chicken cutlets provides lean protein, while the walnuts offer heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The recipe also incorporates a variety of vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Reduce the amount of oil used for cooking. Instead of using 2 tablespoons of olive oil, try using just 1 tablespoon or opt for a cooking spray to minimize added fats.
- Consider using whole wheat panko crumbs instead of regular panko to increase the fiber content of the dish.
- Swap the potatoes for a lower-carb alternative, such as sweet potatoes or turnips, to reduce the overall carbohydrate content.
- Increase the proportion of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers to boost the nutrient density of the meal.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, you could:
- Add more herbs and spices to the walnut and panko mixture, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or thyme, to increase the flavor without relying on salt.
- Serve the dish with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the overall meal.
- Use a low-fat milk alternative, such as almond milk or skim milk, to reduce the saturated fat content in the coating mixture.
Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Dish
The walnut herb chicken and vegetables recipe is a delightful combination of crunchy walnuts, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables. The use of Dijon mustard and herbs adds a depth of flavor to the dish, while the panko and walnut crust provides a satisfying crunch. The cooking method ensures that the chicken is juicy and the vegetables are perfectly roasted. This recipe is a great way to elevate a simple chicken and vegetable dish into a gourmet meal that is both delicious and visually appealing.
Why trust this Walnut Herb Chicken and Vegetables Recipe:
This walnut herb chicken and vegetables recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. The combination of walnuts and herbs adds a unique and savory crunch to the tender chicken, while the assortment of colorful vegetables provides a nutritious and visually appealing accompaniment. With a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, this recipe promises a delightful dining experience that is both delicious and nourishing. Trust in the quality and taste of this dish, and elevate your culinary repertoire with this delightful recipe.
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