Creamy Mustard Chicken: Easy Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Creamy Mustard Chicken: Prepare to be amazed by this deceptively simple dish that delivers an explosion of flavor! I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, because it’s one of those weeknight wonders that feels incredibly gourmet. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce with the perfect tang of Dijon mustard. It’s a culinary hug in a pan!

While the exact origins of Creamy Mustard Chicken are debated, the combination of mustard and cream sauces with poultry has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries. Mustard, particularly Dijon, has long been celebrated for its ability to elevate simple ingredients, adding depth and complexity to even the most humble dishes. This recipe builds upon that tradition, offering a modern twist that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The chicken is perfectly seared, creating a delightful contrast with the smooth, velvety sauce. The mustard provides a pleasant kick that awakens the palate, while the creaminess balances the acidity, resulting in a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss. Get ready to add this Creamy Mustard Chicken to your regular rotation – you won’t regret it!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp whole grain mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, for serving

Preparing the Chicken and Aromatics

1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the pan. Season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s crucial for flavor!
2. Now, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken. This will help create a beautiful sear.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper browning. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it.
4. Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Don’t worry if there are some browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan – those are called fond, and they’ll add tons of flavor to our sauce!
6. Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Creamy Mustard Sauce

1. If you want a slightly thicker sauce, now’s the time to add the flour. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the sauce. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can skip this step.
2. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to our sauce.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes, until slightly reduced. This will concentrate the flavors.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard. The combination of Dijon and whole grain mustard creates a wonderful balance of flavors and textures.
5. Add the chopped thyme leaves. Thyme adds a lovely earthy and aromatic note to the sauce.
6. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. If you want to add a touch of extra richness, stir in the butter. This is optional, but it will make the sauce even more decadent.
8. Let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes, until it has thickened slightly.

Bringing It All Together

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
3. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, until it’s heated through.
4. Taste the sauce one last time and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve the creamy mustard chicken over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. These are all great options for soaking up the delicious sauce.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
3. For an extra touch, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
4. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans.
5. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Creamy Mustard Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the tender, perfectly cooked chicken to the rich and tangy sauce, every bite is a delightful experience. I truly believe this will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the incredible depth of flavor makes it a winner every time.

Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the sheer deliciousness, it’s incredibly versatile. Need a quick and easy meal after a long day? This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. Want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen? This dish looks and tastes like you’ve been slaving away all day. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate simple chicken breasts into something truly special. The creamy mustard sauce is the star, coating the chicken in a velvety embrace that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

But the best part? You can easily customize it to your liking!

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

* Classic Pairing: Serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up all that delicious sauce. A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus adds a touch of freshness.
* Pasta Perfection: Toss the Creamy Mustard Chicken with your favorite pasta – penne, fettuccine, or even gnocchi work beautifully. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and some fresh parsley for a complete meal.
* Rice Bowl Delight: Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice (white, brown, or even wild rice) for a hearty and satisfying bowl. Add some chopped scallions and a drizzle of sriracha for a little extra kick.
* Vegetable Boost: Sauté some mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers and add them to the sauce for a more substantial and flavorful dish. Spinach or kale can also be stirred in at the end for added nutrients.
* Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
* Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the creamy mustard sauce.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Creamy Mustard Chicken for yourself. It’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Cooking should be fun and creative, so feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments on social media using [Your Hashtag Here] or leave a review on the recipe page. Let me know what variations you tried and how you made it your own. I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do.