Rich, flavorful, and comforting with a tangy mustard kick!
Looking for a meal that feels both indulgent and easy to make? Creamy Dijon Chicken delivers tender chicken simmered in a luscious, tangy mustard sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even special occasions. The creamy sauce, infused with the sharpness of Dijon mustard, creates an irresistible combination that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, this dish is bound to be a hit at the dinner table. Let’s dive into this comforting, flavorful Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe and explore how to make it the best way possible!
What is Creamy Dijon Chicken?
Creamy Dijon Chicken is a savory, one-pan dish featuring pan-seared chicken breasts (or thighs) simmered in a creamy sauce made with Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and a touch of garlic. The sharpness of the mustard balances out the richness of the cream, creating a tangy yet smooth sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. This French-inspired recipe is simple yet elegant, perfect for both everyday meals and entertaining.
Ingredients List for Creamy Dijon Chicken
Here’s what you need to make this easy and delicious Creamy Dijon Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ cup Dijon mustard (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional for extra texture)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and ready in no time.
Ingredients List for Optional Add-ins
Want to enhance the dish with more flavors? Here are some optional add-ins you can incorporate:
- ½ cup white wine (for deglazing the pan and adding more depth to the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for added brightness and acidity)
- 1 teaspoon honey (if you prefer a slightly sweeter sauce)
- Sliced mushrooms or spinach (to add some vegetables to the dish)
Substitutions and Variations
You can make this dish suit your preferences or dietary needs with these substitutions and variations:
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great substitute for chicken breasts.
- Swap heavy cream with a lighter option: For a lighter dish, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- Use whole grain mustard: If you like a bit more texture, use whole grain mustard in addition to Dijon mustard.
- Vegetarian version: Swap the chicken for tofu or seitan and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Herb variations: Try rosemary or tarragon instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to help you cook the perfect Creamy Dijon Chicken:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts (or thighs) with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the Chicken:
- Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. You don’t need to cook it all the way through at this stage since it will finish cooking in the sauce.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pan:
- Optional: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Let the wine reduce for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Mustard and Cream:
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and chicken broth, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the dried thyme (or fresh thyme if using). Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Return the Chicken to the Pan:
- Add the chicken back to the skillet, making sure each piece is coated in the sauce.
- Lower the heat and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
How to Cook Creamy Dijon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Sear the chicken: Pan-sear the chicken until golden brown for extra flavor.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: This adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Make the creamy mustard sauce: Stir together Dijon mustard, broth, and cream for a luscious sauce.
- Simmer the chicken in the sauce: Let the chicken finish cooking while absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Fresh parsley and a final taste check make all the difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
- Not deglazing the pan: Deglazing the pan (with broth or wine) helps capture all the flavorful browned bits from searing the chicken, which adds depth to the sauce.
- Using too much mustard: Dijon mustard has a strong flavor, so start with the recommended amount and add more only if you prefer extra tang.
- Skipping the simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for at least 10 minutes so that the flavors fully meld together.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Here are a few ways to serve and present your Creamy Dijon Chicken for maximum flavor and appeal:
- Serve over pasta: Spoon the chicken and sauce over a bed of fettuccine, penne, or tagliatelle for a hearty meal.
- With mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect pairing to soak up the rich sauce.
- Alongside rice or quinoa: For a lighter option, serve the chicken over fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa.
- With roasted vegetables: Serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a complete and balanced meal.
How to Serve Creamy Dijon Chicken
Here are some serving suggestions to make this dish truly shine:
- Family-style: Serve the chicken directly from the skillet and let everyone help themselves.
- Plated with sides: Plate each chicken breast or thigh individually and spoon the sauce over the top. Add a side of roasted veggies or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Dijon Chicken
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Add freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
- Drizzle extra sauce: Be generous with the sauce—drizzle it over the chicken and any sides for maximum flavor.
- Add lemon wedges: A few lemon wedges on the side can add brightness and balance the richness of the sauce.
Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe Tips
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful garnish to the dish.
- Adjust the creaminess: For a thicker sauce, reduce the liquid by simmering the sauce longer. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more broth or a splash of water.
- Don’t rush the simmer: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for at least 10 minutes to ensure the flavors meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make Creamy Dijon Chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can use milk or half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be thinner. You can thicken it by simmering longer or adding a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water).
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Dijon Chicken?
A: While you can freeze it, cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when thawed. If you freeze it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, whisking the sauce to help recombine the ingredients.
Conclusion
This Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe is a true winner, combining the bold tanginess of Dijon mustard with the richness of a smooth cream sauce. It’s a versatile dish that works beautifully with pasta, potatoes, rice, or vegetables, making it perfect for both casual weeknights and special occasions. The best part? It comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it an easy yet impressive dish to serve to your family or guests. So, grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe features juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich and flavorful Dijon mustard sauce. With a blend of cream, garlic, and white wine, the sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, creating a dish that's ideal for a special dinner or a simple weeknight meal. Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness!
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Dijon mustard
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- White wine (optional)
- Garlic (minced)
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Thyme (fresh or dried)
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add white wine (if using) and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and thyme, then bring to a simmer.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until smooth. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Serve with your favorite side dish and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
Notes
- Use whole-grain mustard for extra texture in the sauce.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
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