Dijon Chicken with Golden Onions & Fresh Salad
Looking for a clean, protein-packed meal that actually tastes amazing? This Dijon chicken recipe is one of my go-to meals. The golden sautéed onions, fresh lime, and mustard-glazed chicken legs come together beautifully. Pair it with quinoa, couscous, or sweet potato and you’ve got a balanced, satisfying plate in under 45 minutes.
🍗 Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken legs (skin on or off)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Onion Sauté:
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 2–3 tbsp lime or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Serving:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa, couscous, or roasted sweet potato
- Salad mix (arugula, romaine, cucumber, cocktail tomatoes, parsley)
🔥 How to Make Dijon Chicken Step-by-Step
- Prep & Clean the Chicken
Rinse the chicken legs thoroughly under cold water with salt and vinegar to help remove impurities and odor. Then pat dry with a clean towel or paper before seasoning. - Marinate the Chicken
Rub the chicken with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, you can also add a sprinkle of onion powder, smoked paprika, or ginger here. Let sit for at least 15 minutes. - Bake the Chicken
Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F). Bake for 25–30 minutes until almost cooked through. - Sauté the Onions & Garlic
Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced red onions, Stir in 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 3 cloves of garlic (minced) and sauté until golden, about 7–10 minutes. - Simmer the Chicken
Add the nearly baked chicken legs to the pan. Pour in lime juice, add the bay leaf, and a splash of water if needed. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until chicken is tender and infused with flavor. - Serve & Enjoy
Plate with your choice of quinoa, couscous, or sweet potato alongside a crisp salad.
💪 Health Benefits of This Clean Dijon Chicken Recipe
- Red onions – High in polyphenols like quercetin for gut health, inflammation reduction, and immune support.
- Dijon mustard – Adds flavor without sugar, and contains selenium for metabolism.
- Coconut oil – Packed with MCTs for fat-burning energy.
- Lime juice – Rich in vitamin C and supports digestion.
- Chicken legs – Great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins for energy and hormone balance.
🍽️ Tips, Substitutes & Flavor Boosters
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or regular paprika powder for extra depth.
- Try a touch of grated ginger for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Garlic lovers, use 3 – 4 cloves during the onion sauté.
- Want more punch? Sprinkle a bit of onion powder during marination.
- Swap lime with lemon or even a splash of apple cider vinegar.
