Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe

If you're in the mood for a dish that's rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe is the perfect solution! Made with tender chicken breasts smothered in a tangy, creamy Dijon mustard sauce, this dish is elegant enough for a dinner party but quick and easy enough for a weeknight meal. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a meal that's both comforting and delicious. Follow along for the full recipe, tips, and ideas to make this savory dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What is Creamy Dijon Chicken?

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a rich and creamy sauce made with Dijon mustard, heavy cream, chicken broth, and garlic. The tanginess of the Dijon mustard blends beautifully with the richness of the cream, creating a balanced sauce that’s both bold and comforting. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both special occasions and busy weeknights.

Ingredients List for Creamy Dijon Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Creamy Dijon Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (add more for extra tang)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra depth)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional, for texture and extra mustard flavor)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

This Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe is versatile, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Wine: Swap the chicken broth with dry white wine for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Lighter Sauce: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, or substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, tarragon, or oregano instead of thyme.
• Add Veggies: Add some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, but ensure your mustard and chicken broth are gluten-free as well.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Creamy Dijon Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• Season the chicken breasts: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. You can also lightly coat them with a little Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
• Heat a skillet: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

• Sear the chicken breasts: Once the oil and butter are hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Shallot

• Sauté the garlic and shallot: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped shallot, stirring frequently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

• Add chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the broth simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Dijon Sauce

• Stir in the Dijon mustard: Add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of whole grain mustard (if using) to the skillet and stir until combined with the broth.
• Add heavy cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add thyme: Stir in the fresh or dried thyme for extra flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Return Chicken to the Pan

• Simmer the chicken in the sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to soak up the flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish and serve: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking and the chicken is warmed through, remove from the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the creamy Dijon chicken with your favorite sides.

How to Cook Creamy Dijon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sear the Chicken: Season and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté garlic and shallots in the same skillet for added flavor.
3. Make the Sauce: Deglaze the pan with chicken broth (or wine), add mustard and cream, and let the sauce thicken.
4. Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, simmering in the sauce to finish cooking and absorb all the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to ensure your Creamy Dijon Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Make sure to sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, but be careful not to overcook it, which can make the chicken dry. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Too High Heat for the Sauce: When adding the cream, keep the heat at medium to low to prevent the cream from curdling. A gentle simmer is ideal for thickening the sauce.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Deglazing the pan with chicken broth or wine is essential for lifting the flavorful browned bits off the pan, which adds depth to the sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions and presentation ideas:

• Serving Suggestions: Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, pair it with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• Plating: Plate the chicken breast on top of a bed of mashed potatoes or noodles, then generously drizzle the creamy Dijon sauce over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.
• Side Ideas: A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad can balance out the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Creamy Dijon Chicken

• Family-Style: Serve the chicken directly from the skillet, placing it in the center of the table for everyone to enjoy.
• Individual Plates: Plate the chicken individually, spooning the creamy sauce over each piece and adding a side of vegetables or starches like potatoes or rice.
• With a Salad: For a lighter meal, serve alongside a crisp, green salad with a simple vinaigrette.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Dijon Chicken

• Garnish the dish with finely chopped parsley or chives for a bright and fresh finish.
• Serve the chicken with a lemon wedge on the side to cut through the richness of the sauce with a bit of citrusy brightness.
• Use a colorful serving dish or skillet to make the golden chicken and creamy sauce pop visually.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to serve, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Leftovers: Store leftover creamy Dijon chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of extra cream or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
• Freezing: While the sauce may change in texture slightly, you can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Creamy Dijon Chicken with chicken thighs?
Yes! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and add more juiciness. You may need to cook them for a bit longer, especially if using bone-in thighs.

2. How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, and use olive oil instead of butter.

3. Can I use regular mustard instead of Dijon mustard?
Dijon mustard has a smoother, more refined flavor compared to regular yellow mustard. However, if you don’t have Dijon, you can use regular mustard, though the flavor will be slightly sharper and less creamy.

4. How can I thicken the sauce more?
If the sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, let it simmer for a bit longer. Alternatively, you can stir in a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water) and let it cook for an additional minute or two.

Conclusion

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With its tangy mustard sauce, tender chicken, and rich creaminess, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort food. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies, making it a versatile meal that everyone will love. Try it out tonight and enjoy a dish that’s simple to prepare but full of rich, indulgent flavors!

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