Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken

Introduction

This creamy Dijon mustard chicken comes together quickly for a delicious weeknight dinner. Boneless chicken breasts are browned then simmered in a rich mustard cream sauce flavored with garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. As the sauce reduces down, it coats the chicken in an irresistible creamy coating. Served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this easy yet impressive chicken dish is sure to become a regular rotation. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and fun variations.

Benefits of Mustard

Mustard offers great nutritional value:

• Contains antioxidant compounds
• Packed with vitamins and minerals
• Provides anti-inflammatory benefits
• Promotes heart health
• Aids digestion

Benefits of Chicken

Chicken provides many nutrients:

• High-quality complete protein
• B vitamins for energy
• Selenium, zinc for immune health
• Choline supports brain function
• Lean protein helps build muscle

Ingredients

This easy one-pan meal calls for:

• Boneless chicken breasts
• Dijon mustard
• Heavy cream or half and half
• Chicken broth
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Fresh thyme or parsley

Seasonings

• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika

Recipe Instructions

Sear the Chicken

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat oil in pan and cook chicken until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Make the Sauce

Remove chicken and add garlic to the pan. Cook 30 seconds. Whisk in mustard, cream, and broth. Simmer.

Simmer the Chicken

Return chicken to pan along with any juices. Spoon sauce over chicken. Simmer 15 minutes until cooked through.

Finish the Sauce

Remove chicken to plate and let rest. Simmer sauce until thickened. Off heat, stir in lemon juice and herbs.

Serve

Place chicken on rice, pasta, or veggies. Drizzle over mustard cream sauce. Garnish with parsley.

Recipe Variations

Adapt this versatile recipe to your taste:

• Use chicken thighs, cutlets, ortenders
• Swap broccoli, cauliflower, green beans for pasta/rice
• Mix in cooked mushrooms with sauce
• Add roasted garlic for deeper flavor
• Use half Dijon and half whole grain mustard
• Stir in chopped tarragon or dill

Sauce Ideas

• Substitute honey mustard
• Creamy sundried tomato sauce
• Lemon caper sauce
• White wine and herb sauce
• Creamy roasted red pepper

Serving Suggestions

This saucy chicken is tasty served:

• Over egg noodles, pasta, or rice
• With roasted vegetables or Brussels sprouts
• On top of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes
• With roasted green beans or asparagus
• With a fresh garden salad

Full Meal Ideas

• Pasta salad
• Wine and bread
• Fruit salad dessert
• Roasted root vegetables
• Sparkling lemonade

Storage and Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover chicken and sauce up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Storage Tips

• Allow to cool before storing
• Keep chicken and sauce separate
• Use shallow airtight containers
• Avoid frequent temperature changes

FAQs

What goes well with this chicken?

It pairs deliciously with rice, pasta, roasted veggies, potatoes, or fresh green salads.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, you can substitute 2% or whole milk. The sauce may turn out slightly thinner.

How long will this dish keep refrigerated?

Stored properly in sealed containers, it will last 3-4 days.

What if I can't find Dijon mustard?

You can substitute yellow mustard or a blend of brown and whole grain mustards.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can safely freeze this dish for 2-3 months.

Conclusion

With its creamy Dijon mustard sauce blanketing juicy chicken, this easy weeknight dinner delivers incredible flavor with minimal ingredients. The tangy mustard pairs perfectly with bright lemon and herbs, coating the chicken as the sauce reduces. For a satisfying meal, serve over rice or pasta alongside fresh veggies or salad. This saucy chicken is sure to become a regular rotation!