After a long day filled with errands and tasks, I often find myself longing for a comforting yet gourmet meal that can be whipped up in no time. That’s when this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken comes to the rescue! Featuring succulent, seared chicken breasts smothered in a velvety, tangy sauce made from just a handful of ingredients, this dish always feels like a treat, even on the busiest of weeknights.
The first time I made it, the aroma of garlic mingling with Dijon mustard filled my kitchen and wrapped me in warmth. Ready in about 25 minutes, it’s a dish that turns everyday dinners into something special without demanding much time or effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with whatever sides you have on hand—whether roasted veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh apple salad, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Join me in elevating your weeknight meals with this delightful recipe!
Why is Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This dish requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Gourmet flavor packed in: The tangy Dijon mustard and creamy sauce elevate simple chicken to a restaurant-quality meal.
Versatile options: Easily swap the chicken for pork or even salmon, adapting to your pantry staples.
Quick cooking time: Ready in just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delightful dinner on the table in no time.
Perfect for any occasion: Impress your guests without the hassle or indulge in a comforting family meal.
If you’re seeking more easy weeknight meals, check out my other favorites to keep your dinner routine exciting!
Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Ingredients
• Ready to create this delicious dish? Let’s gather the essentials!
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – The main protein; flatten for even cooking!
- Salt and black pepper – Enhance flavor; use freshly ground for best results.
- Olive oil – Ideal for searing; substitute with butter for a richer taste.
For the Sauce
- Minced garlic – Adds depth; shallots can work as a lovely substitute.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Provides the base; white wine or vegetable broth can be swapped in for a different twist.
- Heavy cream – Creates that luscious creamy texture; sour cream is a lighter alternative if desired.
- Dijon mustard – The star ingredient adds tanginess; feel free to adjust for your taste!
- Chopped fresh thyme – For a lovely aromatic touch; dried thyme is a convenient substitute (1/3 the amount).
- Dried sage – Adds a savory note; optional but enhances flavor depth nicely.
- Honey – Balances the tang of the mustard; can be omitted or replaced with maple syrup if preferred.
For Garnishing
- Fresh parsley – A lovely finish for color and freshness; optional but highly recommended.
How to Make Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken
- Prepare Chicken: Start by flattening the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and tender results.
- Season and Cook: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm.
- Make Sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and return the skillet to the stove. Add any remaining olive oil and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, which should take about 10 seconds.
- Deglaze: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, adding chopped thyme and sage. Allow the mixture to reduce by half, which will take approximately 1 minute.
- Add Cream & Mustard: Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, simmering until the sauce slightly thickens, around 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then add in the honey to balance the flavors.
- Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. If you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Optional: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken?
Embrace the art of creating a full meal that delights the senses and nourishes the soul.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These rich, buttery potatoes soak up the delectable sauce, enhancing every bite of chicken.
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness of roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts provides a beautiful contrast to the tangy sauce.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, warm bread is perfect for sopping up the creamy Dijon sauce, making every meal feel like a feast.
- Crisp Apple Salad: A refreshing salad with tart apples and crunchy nuts cuts through the richness, adding a bright touch to the plate.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto elevates the meal further, providing a velvety texture that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots harmonize with the honey in the sauce, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Pinot Grigio: This lightly crisp wine brightens the meal while enhancing the dish’s flavors, making for a delightful sip between bites.
With these pairings, your Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken is sure to shine on any dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken is a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can prepare the chicken by flattening and seasoning it up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made ahead—just cook as directed, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain its rich flavor and creamy texture, reheat the sauce gently over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken in a skillet and combine with the warmed sauce for a gourmet meal that feels effortless!
Expert Tips for Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken is evenly flattened to about 1/2-inch thickness. This promotes uniform cooking, preventing dry spots.
- Avoid Overcooking: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F; overcooking leads to dryness.
- Flavor Balance: Adjust the Dijon mustard according to your taste. Adding more mustard gives a bolder flavor, while less provides a milder sauce.
- Substitutions: Feel free to swap chicken for pork or salmon for a delicious twist on this creamy Dijon mustard chicken recipe.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can take your dish to new heights!
- Pork Swap: Replace the chicken with boneless pork chops for a saporous variation that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Salmon Delight: Use salmon fillets instead of chicken for a rich and tender outcome, cooking until just flaky. The layers of flavor meld perfectly with Dijon!
- Herb Twist: Substitute fresh thyme and sage with rosemary or oregano for an aromatic twist that’s sure to impress and tickle the senses.
- Lighter Cream: Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version that maintains creaminess but with fewer calories.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the sauce to introduce a lovely crunch and depth that complements the dish beautifully.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition and a burst of color that elevates the entire plate.
- Sweet Alternative: Drizzle with maple syrup instead of honey for a subtle sweetness that pairs surprisingly well with the tangy mustard!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: If you want to save this dish for later, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, ensure it’s tightly sealed.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore the creaminess.
- Layering: When freezing, layer the chicken and sauce together to preserve flavor and maintain the texture of your Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken.
Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
For this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and remain tender. However, you can also use thighs if you prefer a juicier cut, just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure to tightly seal it to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your creamy sauce becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a splash of chicken broth or even a bit of milk to thin it out to your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer on low heat for a couple of minutes until it reaches the perfect texture.
Are there any alternatives for Dijon mustard if I have allergies?
If you’re allergic to Dijon mustard or want a milder flavor, you can substitute it with yellow mustard or a honey mustard, though this will change the flavor profile slightly. For a dairy-free option, consider using a dairy-free cream in combination with a low-sodium mustard.
How can I make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
To adapt this Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken for a low-carb or keto diet, simply omit the honey, and serve it with low-carb vegetables like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of mashed potatoes. Enjoy a rich flavor without added carbs!
Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken for Effortless Gourmet Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Flatten the chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and return the skillet to the stove. Add remaining olive oil and minced garlic, sauté for about 10 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth, adding thyme and sage. Reduce mixture by half, about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard, simmer until sauce thickens slightly, around 1 minute. Adjust seasoning and add honey.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
