If you are searching for a rich, flavorful, and utterly comforting dish to add to your dinner rotation, look no further than this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe. With its luscious, tangy sauce and tender chicken breasts, this dish strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication. Every bite delivers that perfect punch of Dijon mustard’s sharpness mellowed by the velvety cream, making it a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list—each item is straightforward, common, and plays an essential role in bringing out the best flavors and textures in this dish. From the savory chicken breasts to the creamy sauce, every element is carefully selected to create a harmonious and satisfying meal.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the star protein of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps to sear the chicken perfectly, adding richness and depth.
- 1 tbsp butter: Adds a silky smooth finish and enhances the sauce’s richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Introduces a fragrant, slightly pungent note that awakens the senses.
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard: Offers that iconic tangy, sharp flavor central to the sauce’s identity.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy consistency and softens the mustard’s punch for a perfect balance.
- 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and subtle savory depth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Basic seasonings that enhance and bring all the flavors together.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a bright pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Begin by generously seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures even seasoning throughout and helps the chicken to develop a tasty crust when cooked. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior and cook through. This process locks in juices and builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
After removing the chicken and setting it aside, keep those delicious browned bits in the skillet to incorporate into the sauce. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. You want the garlic to soften and release its aroma without burning—it’s the fragrant foundation that brings warmth to the sauce.
Step 3: Blend the Sauce Ingredients
Next, add the Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and chicken broth directly to the skillet. Stir everything together using the browned bits on the pan’s bottom to build layers of flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow the sauce to thicken for about 3 to 5 minutes. This step transforms simple ingredients into a luxuriously creamy sauce that clings to the chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Reunite Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mustard sauce. Spoon the sauce over the top to ensure the chicken soaks up those delicious flavors. Let everything cook together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes over low heat. The chicken finishes cooking through while absorbing the sauce’s tangy creaminess perfectly.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Your creamy Dijon mustard chicken is ready to be plated. If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh note both in taste and color. Serve immediately and prepare to enjoy a dish that’s elegantly simple but delivers big on flavor and comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic way to finish this dish, adding a touch of herbal brightness and a gorgeous green contrast to the creamy sauce. You could also experiment with a few chives or a light dusting of paprika for a subtle smoky tint and additional color. These little touches lift the presentation and elevate every bite.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe pairs perfectly with comforting, neutral sides that can soak up the sauce. Think fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery noodles. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or carrots add a crisp, fresh balance and make your plate pop with vibrant colors and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or switch things up? Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of wilted spinach or sautéed mushrooms for an elegant presentation with added earthiness. You could even turn it into a hearty sandwich by layering the chicken with sauce and fresh greens on a toasted baguette. The creamy sauce works beautifully as a dipping element too, perfect for sharing at a casual get-together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken breasts and sauce together in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen as they rest. Be sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and taste.
Freezing
This Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe freezes well if you want to save some for a later meal. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid freezing if you plan to serve with delicate sides like greens, which don’t reheat well from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. Adding a splash of chicken broth or cream can help restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals at medium power, stirring between, until warmed through but still luscious.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but you’ll want to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure they are cooked through without drying out.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking to lighten the dish, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken. Keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy but still deliciously flavorful.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes. You can cook the chicken and sauce completely, then refrigerate and reheat just before serving. This makes the Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe a great option for meal prep or entertaining with less last-minute fuss.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If the sauce thickens more than you’d like, simply stir in a little extra chicken broth or cream until you reach the desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and smooth, perfect for coating the chicken.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you double-check ingredients like chicken broth and Dijon mustard to ensure they do not contain any hidden gluten additives.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is surprisingly easy to pull together. The simple ingredients combine to create an irresistible sauce that makes chicken shine in a whole new way. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll soon discover why it’s a beloved favorite that keeps friends and family coming back for more.
