Chicken mignon is a traditional dish that elevates the humble chicken breast into a gourmet masterpiece. This culinary delight originated in France and has made its way to Australian kitchens, where it is valued for its simplicity and versatility. In this article, we’ll explore how to cook chicken mignon, delving into its history, ingredients, cooking methods, and variations. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary enthusiast looking to expand your repertoire, mastering chicken mignon will impress your family and friends at any gathering.
History of chicken mignon
The adjective “mignon” means “cute” or “dainty” in French, highlighting the dish’s delicate and refined nature. While its exact beginnings are unknown, chicken mignon is said to have emerged as a variation on the well-known beef filet mignon, a tender piece of beef wrapped in bacon. Cooks eventually started experimenting with different proteins, like chicken, to provide a less expensive but equally delicious alternative. Ingredients for chicken Mignon.
How to cook chicken mignon
Ingredients for chicken mignon
The beauty of chicken mignon lies in its simplicity and versatility. These are the basic ingredients you’ll need to make this delectable dinner.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a more convenient and leaner choice.
- Bacon: Choose high-quality bacon slices that will crisp up nicely after cooking.
- Cheese: For the filling, select your favorite cheese. Popular possibilities include mozzarella, cheddar, and brie.
- Olive oil is used to sear the chicken and provide flavor.
- Salt and pepper are vital elements for improving the flavor of chicken.
- Herbs: Dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano can improve the flavor of a dish.
Step-by-step instructions for Cooking
Cook chicken mignon in both the oven and on the stovetop for the perfect combination of tender chicken and crispy bacon.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare to roast the chicken mignon.
- Cut a pocket on the side of each chicken breast. Be careful to cut only some of the way through.
- For added taste, season the chicken breasts on both the inside and outside with salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
- Stuff the chicken breast pockets with cheese cubes to ensure even distribution.
- Wrap two pieces of bacon around each packed chicken breast, then secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts to the skillet and sear on both sides until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Remove the chicken mignon from the oven and set aside for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the basic chicken mignon dish is excellent on its own, there are other variations and serving alternatives to explore.
Mushroom sauce: For a more luxurious touch, serve chicken mignon with creamy mushroom sauce.
Asparagus bundles: Wrap fresh asparagus stalks in bacon and serve with chicken mignon for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Garlic mashed potatoes: Make a batch of creamy garlic mashed potatoes to go with the chicken mignon, soaking up all the delicious juices.
Conclusion
Chicken mignon is a stunning dish that combines the juiciness of chicken, the richness of the cheese, and the smokiness of bacon to produce an ideal gastronomic symphony. With its simple yet elegant preparation, it’s no surprise that chicken mignon has become a popular meal in Australian kitchens. Whether it’s a midweek supper or a big occasion feast, understanding the technique of producing chicken mignon will enhance your culinary abilities and delight your palette.
