As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken mingling with a hint of Dijon mustard transported me straight to a quaint French bistro. This moment of culinary bliss is exactly what inspired me to whip up this delicious French Mustard Chicken, your new go-to recipe for weeknight dinners. Not only is this dish quick to prepare—ready in just 45 minutes—but it also packs a creamy, tangy punch that turns an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. The best part? It’s easily adaptable for large gatherings or cozy family dinners. If you’re looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is your ticket. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a little French getaway?
Why is French Mustard Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With only a few ingredients, this recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare. Just 15 minutes of prep and you’ll be well on your way to a delightful dish!
Creamy Delight: The combination of Dijon mustard and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to the chicken, making every bite heavenly.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance so you can enjoy a stress-free dinner with family or friends. This French Mustard Chicken is perfect for gatherings and busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or keeping it cozy at home, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy everyone’s cravings.
French Mustard Chicken Ingredients
Unlock the secrets to this delectable dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Chicken pieces – Use either breasts or thighs for a juicy and satisfying meal.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- Black pepper – Adds a hint of spice that elevates the dish.
For the Sauce
- Dijon mustard – The star of this recipe, it brings a tangy kick that complements the richness of the cream.
- Heavy cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Olive oil – Ideal for searing the chicken, adding a touch of healthy fat and flavor.
With these simple yet powerful ingredients, you're just moments away from creating a delightful French Mustard Chicken that will leave everyone at the table wanting more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Mustard Chicken
Step 1: Heat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once shimmering, it indicates the oil is hot enough. This step sets the stage for perfectly browned chicken pieces, creating a savory base for your French Mustard Chicken.
Step 2: Season and Brown the Chicken
While the oil heats, generously season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Sear them for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown color, enhancing flavor and texture.
Step 3: Set Aside the Chicken
Once browned, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet using tongs and transfer it to a plate. It’s essential to let the chicken rest while you prepare the sauce, allowing those delicious juices to settle back in, ensuring your French Mustard Chicken remains juicy and tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Stir vigorously to combine, creating a rich and creamy sauce. Simmer this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, making every bite of your French Mustard Chicken wonderfully flavorful.
Step 5: Return Chicken to the Skillet
Gently return the chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they are coated in the creamy mustard sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for approximately 30 minutes on medium-low heat, allowing the chicken to cook through and soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After 30 minutes, check that the chicken is fully cooked and tender. It should register an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When ready, serve your delightful French Mustard Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside your favorite sides like rice or a fresh salad.
How to Store and Freeze French Mustard Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezer: To freeze, cool the chicken completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This ensures even reheating and preserves the creamy sauce.
Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore the sauce's consistency.
What to Serve with French Mustard Chicken
Delightful pairings can transform your French Mustard Chicken into a full-fledged feast that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich sauce beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
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Garlic Roasted Broccoli: This veggie adds a crispy texture and a hint of garlic, perfectly balancing the creamy chicken sauce.
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Light Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, refreshing your palate with every bite.
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Savory Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice absorbs the creamy mustard sauce, adding depth to your meal that feels like a warm hug.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears add a delightful crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the visual and flavor experience.
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Crusty Baguette: A loaf of warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce and will transport you straight to a Parisian café.
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Chardonnay: This wine’s crisp acidity pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the dish, making each sip a refreshing delight.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note! This rich dessert complements the savory main dish, creating a perfect balance.
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will adore how easy it is to prepare French Mustard Chicken ahead of time! You can season and brown the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate the cooked pieces in an airtight container to keep them juicy. The creamy mustard sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply reheat it gently before adding the browned chicken back in. When you're ready to serve, just simmer the chicken in the sauce until heated through, ensuring it retains that delectable flavor. With these make-ahead tips, you can savor a gourmet dinner with minimal effort after a long day!
French Mustard Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these fun twists and swaps for your French Mustard Chicken!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free option that still delivers a creamy texture and flavor.
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Herb-Infused: Add a tablespoon of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic twist that brightens the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or paprika in the sauce to give your French Mustard Chicken a delightful heat!
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Honey Mustard: Mix in a tablespoon of honey with the Dijon for a sweet and tangy flavor profile that adds depth to the dish.
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Mushroom Medley: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms into the sauce for an earthy flavor that complements the mustard beautifully. The added texture will make every bite varied and exciting.
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Mustard Mix: Use a blend of Dijon and whole grain mustard for a delightful texture and flavor combination that adds dimensions to your sauce.
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Wine Addition: Pour in a splash of white wine while making the sauce for a luxurious, nuanced flavor that elevates the overall dish. Just let it reduce a bit for a beautiful finish.
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Vegetable Boost: Fry up some spinach or kale to mix in with the sauce. This not only enhances the nutrition but adds vibrant color and taste to your plate!
Embrace these variations to make the classic recipe your own! For more ideas on delightful sides, check out my options for serving suggestions and witness how they transform your French Mustard Chicken experience.
Expert Tips for French Mustard Chicken
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Proper Browning: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken. This prevents steaming and gives you that wonderful golden-brown crust, enhancing flavors.
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Juicy Chicken: Let the chicken rest after browning. This keeps it juicy and tender, ensuring the final dish is moist and delightful.
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Sauce Consistency: Stir the sauce frequently while it simmers. This prevents it from sticking to the skillet and ensures a smooth, creamy coating for your French Mustard Chicken.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safely and perfectly cooked.
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Flavor Adjustments: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can elevate your French Mustard Chicken to the next level.
French Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken for your French Mustard Chicken, look for pieces that are well-colored and have a firm texture. If you opt for chicken breasts, ensure they have a slight sheen and are free from any dark spots or unpleasant odors. Thighs should be plump and moist for maximum flavor.
How should I store leftover French Mustard Chicken?
Very simple! Store any leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a stovetop over low heat for best results, or pop it in the microwave, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream can help restore the sauce's delightful consistency!
Can I freeze French Mustard Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow your French Mustard Chicken to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and then reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened too much, don’t worry! Just add a small splash of chicken broth or cream while gently stirring over low heat. This will loosen the sauce and help it cling beautifully to the chicken again. Keep adjusting until you achieve the desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Very much so! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten allergies, make sure to check that the Dijon mustard you use is labeled gluten-free. Additionally, feel free to adjust the recipe to fit low-carb or paleo diets by serving it with a side of non-starchy vegetables instead of grains.
Delicious French Mustard Chicken for a Cozy Dinner Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once shimmering, it indicates the oil is hot enough.
- Generously season your chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Place the seasoned chicken in the skillet in a single layer, and sear them for 5-6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown color.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Let it rest while you prepare the sauce.
- In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Stir vigorously to combine, and simmer this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Gently return the chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they are coated in the creamy mustard sauce. Cover the skillet and let it cook for approximately 30 minutes on medium-low heat.
- After 30 minutes, check that the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Serve your delightful French Mustard Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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