Name: Savory French Mustard Chicken in Creamy Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces chicken (breasts or thighs) (choose either for juicy flavor); 1 teaspoon salt (helps enhance the natural taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper (adds a subtle kick); 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (provides tangy richness); 1 tablespoon olive oil (used for cooking); 1 cup heavy cream (creates a velvety texture); 1 teaspoon garlic (minced for flavor)

There’s something magical about a sizzling skillet that transforms a simple evening into a cozy feast. When I first stumbled upon this recipe for French Mustard Chicken, I was captivated by its promise of effortless elegance. This dish not only boasts a creamy, mustardy sauce that clings lovingly to tender chicken, but it also comes together in just 45 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade yet sophisticated. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser; serve it alongside mashed potatoes or a bright salad, and your dinner table will radiate joy. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey? Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe!

Why is French Mustard Chicken irresistible?

Elevated flavors: The delightful combination of Dijon mustard and creamy sauce creates a sophisticated dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Quick & easy: With only 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this meal even on busy weeknights, unlike takeout options.

Versatile pairing: It shines paired with mashed potatoes, a crisp salad, or even a side of rice. Check out my Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites for a delicious brunch alternative!

Impressive presentation: The golden-brown chicken in a luscious sauce looks stunning on any dinner table, making it perfect for impressing friends and family.

Make-ahead magic: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance for a seamless dinner experience, just like my Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine that can be made ahead!

French Mustard Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken pieces – choose either breasts or thighs for juicy flavor.
Salt – helps enhance the natural taste of the chicken.
Black pepper – adds a subtle kick to your dish.

For the Sauce

Dijon mustard – provides a tangy richness essential to French Mustard Chicken.
Olive oil – used for cooking, it adds a light flavor to the chicken.
Heavy cream – creates a dreamy, velvety texture in the sauce.
Garlic – minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Mustard Chicken

Step 1: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat for about 2 minutes. The oil should shimmer gently, indicating it's hot enough. This is where your French Mustard Chicken will start to come to life!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot skillet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they're beautifully golden brown and fully cooked through. You'll know they're done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, giving them a lovely, inviting appearance.

Step 3: Set the Chicken Aside
Once the chicken is perfectly browned, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate to rest. This will capture all those delicious juices. Meanwhile, let the skillet cool slightly, then get ready to infuse the flavors for your creamy sauce.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until it becomes fragrant but not browned. This step will not only enhance the flavors of your French Mustard Chicken but also create a wonderful aromatic base for the sauce.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 1 cup of heavy cream. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly until the sauce thickens and begins to bubble gently. The creamy texture should envelop the mustard, forming a luscious sauce ready to coat your chicken.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Let them simmer together for an additional 10 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye out for the sauce to cling lovingly to the chicken, creating a visually appealing dish.

Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, season your French Mustard Chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together before serving. This dish shines with a backdrop of rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to enhance your dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze French Mustard Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring the chicken remains moist and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce's creaminess.

Meal Prep: Consider preparing double the recipe; it's a fantastic way to have gourmet French Mustard Chicken ready for quick, satisfying weeknight dinners.

Make Ahead Options

French Mustard Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep, helping you save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and the creamy mustard sauce up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, cook according to the recipe, then allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay juicy while the flavors meld overnight, ensuring it’s just as delicious the next day. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat until warmed through—this method keeps the chicken tender and the sauce creamy!

Expert Tips for French Mustard Chicken

• Choosing the Chicken: Opt for thighs for added moisture. Breasts can dry out if overcooked, so keep an eye on the temperature.

• Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce isn’t thickening, simmer it a bit longer. The heavy cream needs time to blend with the mustard for that luscious texture.

• Don't Rush Sautéing: Sauté garlic just until fragrant. Overcooking it can lead to bitterness, spoiling the delightful flavor of your French Mustard Chicken.

• Tasting and Adjusting: Always taste your sauce before serving; a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can enhance the overall flavor.

• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container; the flavors continue to deepen, making for an even more delicious meal the next day!

French Mustard Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your French Mustard Chicken for a personalized touch to this comforting dish!

Herb-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for a delightful aroma. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavors in ways that will wow your guests.
Spicy Kick: Stir in 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the sauce-making process for a fiery layer of heat. This will transform your dish into something daring and adventurous!
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato: Replace half of the heavy cream with sun-dried tomato cream for a rich, tangy touch. The sweetness of the tomatoes adds a beautifully balanced layer to your meal.
Mushroom Delight: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms alongside the garlic for an earthy flavor boost. This addition not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely texture to the dish.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze half a lemon into the sauce before serving for a refreshing brightness. The zesty flavor complements the creamy mustard beautifully, invigorating each bite.
Dijon Variation: Swap half the Dijon mustard for whole grain mustard for texture and a different tang. This not only changes the flavor profile but also adds visual interest to the sauce.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in ¼ cup of toasted walnuts or almonds into the sauce for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness will create a pleasing contrast to the creaminess of your chicken.
Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or jackfruit, and replace the cream with coconut milk for a delicious plant-based option. Enjoy the same rich flavors while embracing a healthy twist!

Don’t hesitate to pair your dish with sides like a fresh garden salad or rice to complement the flavors exquisitely. And remember, the warmth of homemade comfort food—the kind found in my delicious Greek Lemon Chicken Soup—is always worth the effort!

What to Serve with French Mustard Chicken

Imagine a meal that envelops your senses, creating warmth and joy at your dinner table. Pairing side dishes with this creamy, mustardy delight can elevate your culinary experience!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the richness of the sauce, soaking in every drop of flavor.
Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and fluffy within, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce left on your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies brings a crunchy, fresh contrast to the creamy chicken, enhancing both color and taste.
Crisp Salad: A light salad tossed with vinaigrette adds refreshing brightness, cutting through the richness of the French Mustard Chicken.
Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as an excellent canvas for the scrumptious sauce, absorbing every last hint of flavor.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red, like Pinot Noir, complements the hearty flavors, creating an inviting and sophisticated dining experience.
Herbed Quinoa: This fluffy grain adds a nutty texture and can provide a nutritious twist to the plate, brushing up against the sauce beautifully.
Fruit Tart: For dessert, a light fruit tart offers a sweet conclusion with its freshness, balancing the meal's richness perfectly.
Lemonade: An iced drink like homemade lemonade adds a delightful zing, refreshing your palate between bites.

French Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for French Mustard Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using chicken thighs for this recipe as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. If you prefer chicken breasts, make sure to monitor their cooking time closely to prevent them from drying out.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
After you’ve savored your French Mustard Chicken, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the chicken cool down to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain its flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze French Mustard Chicken?
Very! To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s tightly sealed. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it slowly in the fridge overnight before reheating on low heat in a skillet.

What if my sauce doesn’t thicken properly?
If your sauce isn’t thickening as expected, don’t worry! Simply let it simmer on low heat for a few more minutes, allowing the heavy cream to cook down and combine fully with the mustard. Stir regularly to prevent it from burning. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water if you want an instant boost.

Is French Mustard Chicken safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free Dijon mustard. However, make sure to check for any other allergies you or your guests may have, such as dairy or mustard intolerance, as the heavy cream and mustard are key ingredients.

Can I prepare French Mustard Chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the creamy sauce ahead of time. Just cook and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in the skillet and pour the sauce over it. This way, you’ll have a quick, gourmet meal ready to impress!