As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of savory, seasoned chicken mixed with the tangy punch of Dijon mustard took me back to sun-drenched picnics in Provence. This French Mustard Chicken recipe is my go-to for a weeknight meal that feels elegant yet is uncomplicated to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients—chicken, mustard, cream—you can whip up a dish that’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also gives you the time to enjoy your evening without falling into the fast-food trap. The creamy sauce perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making every bite feel like a little indulgence. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. Curious about how to bring this little slice of France to your table? Let’s get cooking!
Why Is French Mustard Chicken So Special?
Simplicity at its finest: With just three key ingredients—chicken, Dijon mustard, and cream—you'll create a masterpiece that anyone can master.
Rich, creamy flavor: The combination of tangy mustard and velvety cream creates a sauce that elevates the simplest of weeknight meals.
Quick to prepare: In just 45 minutes, you can serve a restaurant-quality dish that impresses friends and family.
Versatile serving options: Pair this dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad, much like my Balsamic Strawberry Chicken for a complete meal that caters to every palate.
Make ahead: Perfect for busy nights, this French Mustard Chicken can be reheated easily, ensuring that weeknight dinners are a breeze.
French Mustard Chicken Ingredients
• Let’s gather the ingredients for this mouthwatering dish!
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken – Choose thighs or breasts for a juicy result.
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard – Provides that signature tangy flavor for the French Mustard Chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 cup cream – Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce, making it luscious and creamy.
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of spice to the overall taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Mustard Chicken
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for the French Mustard Chicken. This temperature will help the chicken cook evenly while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re using a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, make sure it can comfortably accommodate your chicken pieces.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season your 6 pieces of chicken with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, then carefully place them skin-side down in the hot oil. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Flip and repeat on the other side, then remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
With the chicken removed, reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of cream and 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard to the same skillet, scraping up any flavorful bits left behind. Stir together for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The sauce will become rich and fragrant, letting you know it’s ready for the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the creamy mustard sauce. Allow the succulent chicken to bask in the sauce for an additional 2 minutes on low heat, letting the flavors deepen as the sauce warms up and envelops the meat.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the skillet with a lid, then let the French Mustard Chicken simmer gently on low heat for about 20 minutes. This step ensures the chicken cooks through and becomes tender and juicy. Check occasionally, as you want to see the sauce bubbling softly, alerting you that dinner is almost ready!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is fully cooked—no longer pink in the center and registering 165°F (75°C)—it’s time to serve! Spoon the delicious mustard sauce generously over the chicken right on the plate. Pair your French Mustard Chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Make Ahead Options
These French Mustard Chicken delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors penetrate deeply for a richer taste. Just sear and prepare the mustard sauce as instructed, then store the chicken and sauce separately in sealed containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, then generously spoon the creamy mustard sauce over it just before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, allowing you to savor your evening without the fast-food rush!
What to Serve with French Mustard Chicken
As you savor the indulgence of creamy mustard chicken, think about how to build a fuller, harmonious meal around this delightful centerpiece.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, fluffy mashed potatoes soak up the velvety sauce beautifully, making each bite more enriching.
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Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a crisp texture and refreshing brightness, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of the chicken.
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Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting these sprouts caramelizes their natural sweetness, providing a delightful contrast to the tangy mustard sauce.
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Classic Cauliflower Gratin: This cheesy, creamy dish complements the chicken's savory elements while adding a luxurious touch to your dinner spread.
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Flavorful Wild Rice: The nutty aroma of wild rice provides a wholesome base that absorbs the luscious mustard sauce, enhancing every mouthful with earthy flavor.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a zesty contrast, refreshing your palate between bites of the creamy chicken.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for savoring every drop of the mustard sauce, adding a crispy texture to your meal.
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Chardonnay: This crisp white wine pairs elegantly with the tanginess of mustard, making it a delightful companion for your French Mustard Chicken.
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Tarte Tatin: End your meal on a sweet note with this caramelized upside-down apple tart, providing a delightful sweetness to round out your dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze French Mustard Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it's completely cooled before covering to avoid condensation.
Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully! Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it reaches 165°F (75°C) throughout.
Make Ahead: Prepare French Mustard Chicken ahead of time and refrigerate for a quick, stress-free meal when you need it!
Expert Tips for French Mustard Chicken
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Chicken Choice: Opt for bone-in thighs for the juiciest results, while breasts offer a leaner option. Just avoid overcooking!
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Searing Secrets: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken; this creates a beautiful golden crust and locks in moisture.
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Sauce Smoothness: Whisk the cream and mustard thoroughly in Step 3 to prevent lumps—smooth sauce is key for your French Mustard Chicken.
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Cooking Check: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C) to avoid serving undercooked chicken.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment by incorporating garlic or fresh herbs into your sauce to elevate the flavors further, making this dish uniquely yours.
French Mustard Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter, tropical twist.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic enhancement that pairs beautifully with mustard.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some lemon juice or add lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, refreshing flavor that cuts through the richness.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to give your dish an unexpected heat that elevates the flavor profile.
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Mushroom Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms before returning the chicken to the pan, introducing earthy notes that complement the creamy sauce.
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Vegetable Boost: Add steamed broccoli or green beans to the dish in the last stage of simmering for a delightful crunch.
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Maple Sweetness: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup into the sauce to create an intriguing sweet-savory balance that will surprise your taste buds.
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted almonds or walnuts before serving to give the dish a satisfying crunch and an added layer of flavor.
Pair your French Mustard Chicken with dishes like my Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a delightful meal that will leave your family wanting more!
French Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for French Mustard Chicken?
Absolutely! You can choose between bone-in chicken thighs or breasts for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts provide a leaner option. If you're using breasts, just keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking them, which can lead to dryness.
How should I store leftover French Mustard Chicken?
It's super simple! Just place any leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container, ensuring it’s cooled completely before sealing. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing that creamy goodness.
Can I freeze French Mustard Chicken?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully! To do this, allow the chicken to cool, then place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to pack it tightly to avoid freezer burn. This way, it can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries—it's a quick fix! If your sauce turns out too thick, simply whisk in a little bit of cream or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. If you want to amp up the flavors, a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a nice touch.
Is French Mustard Chicken safe for pets or people with allergies?
It's important to be mindful of dietary needs! The dish includes Dijon mustard, which can be problematic for some dogs due to its garlic content. Additionally, if you're cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, double-check that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free. Enjoy this dish safely, and share the love wisely!
Savory French Mustard Chicken: A Creamy Delight for Dinner
Equipment
- Skillet
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 6 pieces chicken Choose thighs or breasts for a juicy result.
For the Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard Provides that signature tangy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 cup cream Heavy cream adds richness to the sauce.
For Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adds a bit of spice to the overall taste.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for the chicken.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear until golden brown.
- With the chicken removed, reduce heat and add cream and Dijon mustard, stirring for 3-4 minutes until smooth.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet, ensuring it's well-coated in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Cover and let the chicken simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes.
- Once cooked through, serve with the sauce generously spooned over the chicken.
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