When you think about elevating a simple chicken dish, mustard stuffed chicken might not be the first idea that comes to mind, but it certainly deserves your attention. This dish merges the tangy kick of mustard with creamy cheeses and crispy bacon, creating a flavor profile that's both satisfying and adaptable. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, making it suitable for any occasion. But what really makes this meal stand out is the method of preparation, which can significantly affect the final result—let's explore how to achieve that perfect balance.
Key Takeaways
- Mustard Stuffed Chicken features chicken breasts filled with a creamy cheese and mustard mixture, wrapped in crispy bacon for added flavor.
- Variations in mustard types and cheeses allow customization of the dish's flavor profile to suit personal preferences.
- The recipe is simple to prepare, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, impressing guests with minimal effort.
- Nutritionally, the dish is rich in protein from chicken, antioxidants from mustard, and calcium from cheese, making it a balanced meal option.
- It pairs well with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or light salads, and a Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.
History

Mustard has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, when the Romans first combined ground mustard seeds with wine or vinegar to create a flavorful condiment.
Over the centuries, it transformed into a beloved ingredient, especially in European cuisine. During the Middle Ages, cooks began adding mustard to meats, like chicken, believing it enhanced flavor and aided digestion. This paved the way for dishes like mustard-stuffed chicken breast, which became a staple in French cuisine.
Here, mustard pairs beautifully with cheeses and bacon, highlighting regional culinary traditions.
The 19th century saw mustard's popularity soar with mass production, making it accessible for home cooks.
Today, variations of mustard-stuffed dishes continue to showcase its versatility and appeal across cultures.
Recipe

Mustard Stuffed Chicken Recipe
Indulge in the delectable flavors of mustard-stuffed chicken, a dish that combines the richness of creamy cheeses with the tangy kick of mustard, all wrapped in crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a satisfying meal that's both easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
With just a few simple steps, you'll have tender, juicy chicken breasts bursting with flavor that will delight your family and friends.
To start, you'll need to gather your ingredients and prepare the chicken for stuffing. This involves carefully slicing a pocket into each chicken breast without cutting all the way through. The combination of cheeses and mustard creates a creamy filling that's packed with flavor, and when wrapped in bacon, it adds a smoky element that complements the dish beautifully.
Bake the chicken until it's perfectly cooked and the bacon is crispy, making for an appealing presentation that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 100g mascarpone cheese
- 100g Cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 8 slices of bacon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas 6).
Begin by preparing the stuffing mixture by combining the mascarpone cheese, grated Cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard in a bowl. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing them horizontally but not all the way through. Stuff each breast with the cheese and mustard mixture, then wrap each stuffed breast with two slices of bacon, securing them with toothpicks if necessary.
Place the wrapped chicken breasts on a baking tray, drizzling with a little olive oil if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, experiment with different types of mustards or add herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the cheese mixture.
You can also try incorporating sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the stuffing for an extra layer of taste.
Always remember to use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken, ensuring it's safe to eat and remains juicy.
If you're preparing this dish in advance, you can assemble the chicken and refrigerate it until ready to bake, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining.
Cooking Steps

To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F.
While it warms up, stuff the chicken with your mustard mixture for a burst of flavor.
Once it's ready, bake for 25 minutes before letting it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F

Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) is essential for a perfectly cooked mustard-stuffed chicken. This temperature ensures even cooking, allowing the chicken to remain moist while achieving a crispy exterior.
It typically takes about 10-15 minutes for your oven to reach this ideal temperature, so plan ahead. To confirm accuracy, use an oven thermometer, as many ovens can deviate from the set temperature.
Once your oven's ready, take your stuffed chicken and arrange it on a baking sheet. This setup is crucial for the roasting process, ensuring that the whole-grain mustard filling melds beautifully with the chicken.
Now you're all set to roast your chicken to perfection!
Step 2. Stuff Chicken With Mustard Mixture

With your oven preheated and ready, the next step is to prepare the mustard mixture for stuffing the chicken.
In a bowl, mix your choice of cheeses, like mascarpone and strong Cheddar, with 2 tablespoons of robust wholegrain mustard. This will create a deliciously rich stuffing.
Carefully create a slit in each chicken breast, ensuring you form a pocket without cutting all the way through.
Generously fill each pocket with the cheese and mustard mixture, distributing it evenly for consistent flavor.
Once the chicken breasts are stuffed, season them with salt and pepper.
Finally, wrap each stuffed chicken breast with 2 rashers of bacon to add extra flavor and moisture during cooking.
Step 3. Bake for 25 Minutes

Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet, ensuring they're spaced out for even cooking.
Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C/gas 6) before you start baking.
Once the oven is ready, roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them during this time.
You'll know the chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F), the bacon is crisp, and the juices run clear when you make a slit in the meat.
This ensures that the mustard stuffing is heated through and flavors meld beautifully.
Don't rush this step; proper baking guarantees a juicy, flavorful dish that's sure to impress.
Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Step 4. Let Rest for 10 Minutes

After baking, let the mustard stuffed chicken rest for about 10 minutes.
This resting chicken period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy. Before you let it rest, ensure the internal temperature has reached a safe minimum of 165°F (74°C) for consumption.
Cover the chicken loosely with foil to keep it warm while allowing steam to escape, which helps maintain crispy skin. During this time, the flavors of the stuffing meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Skipping this step might lead to dry, flavorless meat, so don't rush it—patience pays off for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Step 5. Slice and Serve Chicken

Slice the rested mustard stuffed chicken carefully, cutting against the grain to ensure each piece remains tender.
Use a sharp knife to make even slices through the chicken breast, revealing the delicious stuffing of cheeses and mustard.
Arrange the slices on a warm platter, which helps keep the chicken at the perfect serving temperature.
For a touch of freshness and color, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like tarragon or parsley.
To complete your meal, pair the sliced chicken with complementary sides, such as roasted vegetables or a light salad.
This combination not only enhances the dish's appeal but also provides a balanced dining experience that's sure to impress your guests.
Enjoy your delightful creation!
Final Thoughts

While you might be tempted to stick to traditional chicken recipes, mustard-stuffed chicken offers a delightful twist that elevates your dining experience. This dish combines boneless chicken with a flavorful mix of cheeses and mustard, wrapped in bacon for an irresistible crunch.
Just remember to season with salt and pepper for that perfect balance. It's a versatile recipe, allowing you to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or strong Cheddar, and varying mustard types can change the flavor profile entirely.
Pairing Mustard Stuffed Chicken with roasted vegetables or quinoa keeps your meal light and healthy. To top it off, enjoy a glass of Chardonnay to complement those savory flavors. Your guests will be impressed, and you'll love the results!