If you love a dish that delivers both comfort and a little touch of elegance, let me introduce you to Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken! In just about thirty minutes, you get juicy chicken breasts coated in a rich, tangy, and velvety sauce that feels straight out of a Parisian bistro. This French-inspired meal transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable main course that’s destined to become a weeknight staple. Whether you’re a busy home cook or hosting friends for dinner, Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken promises a winning combination of flavor, ease, and wow-factor every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a special part in the final deliciousness. Every element adds flavor, tenderness, or that golden color that makes Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken so inviting.
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless pieces for quicker cooking and a perfectly tender bite.
- Olive Oil: Adds subtle depth and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- Butter: Infuses richness into both the chicken and the sauce, giving every bite a luxurious finish.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning; it brings all the flavors together.
- Black Pepper: Adds just the right peppery kick to keep things balanced.
- Garlic: Brings warmth and depth, making the sauce irresistibly aromatic.
- Chicken Broth: Deglazes the pan and forms the savory backbone of the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Provides that unforgettable creamy texture everyone craves.
- Dijon Mustard: The star! Delivers zesty tang and a touch of French flair.
- Whole Grain Mustard (optional): Adds extra punch and beautiful little pops of flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Lifts everything with a gentle, bright acidity.
- Dried Thyme: A hint of earthiness to complement the richness of the sauce.
- Chopped Parsley: For a fresh green finish that makes each plate pop.
How to Make Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures your chicken will be flavorful and seasoned all the way through, giving you a solid foundation for the rich sauce to come.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. When the butter is just melted and beginning to sizzle, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook without moving for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust and are just cooked through. Remove the chicken onto a plate and set aside—you’ll finish it in the sauce soon!
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Quickly pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits at the bottom—that’s extra flavor! Keep the heat on low and mix in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard (if you love a little extra texture), lemon juice, and dried thyme. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens just enough to coat a spoon.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
Return the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices back into the skillet, spooning that luscious Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken sauce right on top. Simmer everything together for another 2 minutes, letting the chicken absorb all the incredible flavors and heating it through. Finish with a shower of chopped parsley just before serving for a burst of freshness.
How to Serve Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brings color and vibrancy to each plate, while a few grinds of black pepper on top add an extra aromatic touch. For special occasions, a zest of lemon or a pinch of flaky sea salt will really make your Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken shine.
Side Dishes
This meal is heaven atop creamy mashed potatoes, pillowy rice, or even simple steamed vegetables that soak up every drop of sauce. If you’re going lighter, a crisp green salad or sautéed green beans make a fresh, lively contrast against the rich, savory chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, slice the chicken and arrange it fan-style across the plate, then drizzle the sauce artistically over the top. Or, keep it rustic by serving everything family-style straight from the skillet. Pair with a glass of chilled Chardonnay, and your Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken will feel absolutely restaurant-worthy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the chicken and sauce together to keep the meat moist and full of flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in portions with extra sauce packed on top. It’ll keep well for up to two months; just note that the cream sauce may separate a bit on thawing but can be whisked back to smoothness when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at half power, stirring often and adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Take care not to overcook, so the chicken stays tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and add incredible flavor. Just adjust the cooking time as they may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
Is it okay to skip the whole grain mustard?
Of course. The dish is still delicious with only Dijon mustard. The whole grain variety just provides a hint of texture and a little visual interest if you have it on hand.
What’s the best way to tell if the chicken is cooked through?
Check that the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center; it should be opaque and the juices run clear.
Can I make Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken dairy-free?
You can swap the butter and heavy cream for dairy-free alternatives like olive oil and coconut cream or oat-based cream, though the flavor and texture will change a bit. The sauce will still be tasty and beautifully tangy!
How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for an extra few minutes before returning the chicken to the pan, or add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan for a little cheesy body and richness.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken recipe at home! There’s something so satisfying about transforming everyday staples into something irresistibly special. It’s a dish that never fails to impress and brings everyone together around the table—so go ahead and make it part of your dinner rotation!
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Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, velvety sauce flavored with Dijon and whole grain mustards. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home, this dish is easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
For Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add chicken broth and stir. Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, lemon juice, and thyme. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Finish the Dish: Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over the top, and simmer for another 2 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier cut.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
