Introduction
Grilled Mustard Chicken with Fresh Corn Polenta is a delightful dish that marries the smoky, tender flavors of grilled chicken with the creamy and sweet essence of fresh corn polenta. This recipe promises to deliver an exquisite balance of textures and tastes, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or any time you crave comfort food that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Tips for this Recipe
To ensure the best results with Grilled Mustard Chicken:
1. Marinate your chicken thighs adequately in mustard, lemon juice, and green onions to infuse maximum flavor.
2. Keep an eye on the grill temperature to achieve that ideal char without overcooking the meat.
3. Allow the polenta to rest a bit before serving for optimal texture.
Why you will love this recipe
This dish offers more than just delicious flavors; it’s an experience that brings together traditional and innovative cooking methods, resulting in a meal that impresses both the palate and the eyes. The grilled chicken provides a satisfyingly juicy texture with a subtle smokiness, while the fresh corn polenta adds creamy richness, making every bite memorable.
Ingredients
– 6 green onions, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 large garlic clove, pressed
– 6 large chicken thighs with skin and bones
– Olive oil (for grilling)
– 5 cups water
– 1 cup polenta (coarse cornmeal)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels (cut from about 3 large ears)
– 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
Advised Equipment
– Grill: For achieving a smoky, charred exterior on the chicken.
– Deep Fryer (alternative): Optional for polenta but can be substituted with a pan if not available.
– Medium-Sized Pot: Essential for boiling water and preparing corn side of the dish.
– Large Skillet: Useful for cooking sauces or sautéed garnishes.
– Kitchen Whisk: For mixing ingredients in marinades or dressings.
– Food Processor: Helps grate cheese, chop herbs and vegetables efficiently.
– Colander: Important for draining corn kernels after boiling.
– Slotted Spoon: Ideal for serving without losing excess liquid.
– Strainer Set: A versatile tool for straining ingredients during the cooking process.
– Mandoline Slicer: Beneficial for slicing polenta and preparing garnishes with precision.
– Non-Stick Baking Sheet: Can be used to bake a crispy topping alternative as per preference.
History of the Recipe
Grilled mustard chicken is an innovative fusion, combining traditional Italian grilling techniques with creamy polenta, which has deep roots in American Southern cuisine. The dish embodies a harmonious blend of cultures and tastes that have been evolving over the years to become today’s cherished recipes.
Fun Facts about this Recipe
1. Polenta, originating from Northern Italy, was once considered a staple in poor farmer diets due to its affordability and nutritious qualities; it has now become a gourmet ingredient that’s elevated with fresh corn polenta in this recipe.
2. Mustard sauce can range from sweet and tangy to spicy, showcasing the versatile nature of mustards as a condiment used worldwide for centuries, adding unique flavors to various dishes.