Creamy Dijon Chicken

If you’re in the mood for a rich and savory dish that’s easy to prepare but tastes like it took hours, Creamy Dijon Chicken is the perfect recipe for you. This dish features tender, pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a velvety, tangy mustard cream sauce that will elevate your weeknight dinners to a new level. Keep reading to learn how to make this irresistible recipe, along with variations, cooking tips, and more!

this Recipe

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What Is Creamy Dijon Chicken?

Creamy Dijon Chicken is a flavorful dish made by pan-searing chicken breasts or thighs and then simmering them in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Dijon mustard. The sauce is the star of the show, offering a perfect balance of tanginess from the mustard and richness from the cream. The recipe is simple enough for a quick weeknight meal but elegant enough for a special occasion. Serve it with mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients List for Creamy Dijon Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for searing

For the Creamy Dijon Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard (optional, for texture)
• ½ cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 small shallot (finely chopped, optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Substitutions and Variations

Looking to adapt this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe to fit your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand? Here are a few ideas:

• Protein Substitutions: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, pork chops, or even salmon instead of chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. The sauce will still be rich and creamy!
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the Creamy Dijon Chicken over cauliflower rice or with roasted vegetables instead of traditional pasta or potatoes.
• Herbs and Aromatics: If you don’t have fresh thyme, substitute with dried thyme, rosemary, or parsley. You can also skip the shallots if you don’t have any on hand, although they add a lovely depth of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish a little heat.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to help you create this delectable dish with ease:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the hot pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots (if using) to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and translucent. Be sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds extra flavor to your sauce!

Step 4: Add the Mustard and Broth

Stir in the Dijon mustard and optional whole grain mustard, mixing them with the garlic and shallots. Then, pour in the chicken broth or white wine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer for another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and any additional mustard if you want more tanginess.

Step 6: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-4 minutes to soak up all the flavors. You can spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

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How to Cook Creamy Dijon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure your Creamy Dijon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these steps closely:

1. Sear the Chicken First: Searing locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust. Don’t skip this step!
2. Simmer the Sauce Gently: When adding the cream, avoid boiling the sauce. A gentle simmer will help it thicken and become velvety smooth without curdling.
3. Adjust the Mustard to Taste: If you love the sharp, tangy flavor of mustard, feel free to add more Dijon or whole grain mustard to the sauce.
4. Cook the Chicken Through: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out easily if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Curdling the Sauce: Be sure to simmer the sauce on medium-low heat to prevent the cream from curdling. Adding the cream too quickly over high heat can result in a grainy texture.
• Not Deglazing the Pan: After searing the chicken, don’t forget to deglaze the pan with the broth or wine. This step ensures all those flavorful bits stuck to the pan are incorporated into the sauce.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing it. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve Creamy Dijon Chicken can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to make your dish look just as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Creamy Dijon Chicken:

• Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes, which can soak up all the rich flavors.
• With Pasta or Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine, linguine, or basmati rice for a more filling meal.
• With Vegetables: For a lighter option, pair the chicken with sautéed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad.

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Presentation Ideas for Creamy Dijon Chicken:

• Serve in a Skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the chicken straight from the skillet with a few sprigs of fresh herbs on top.
• Plated Elegantly: Arrange the chicken on a large serving platter with the sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with extra fresh thyme or parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
• Individual Plates: Spoon a generous amount of sauce over each chicken breast and plate it with your chosen side dishes for a more refined presentation.

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Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe Tips

• Double the Sauce: If you love a saucy dish, double the sauce ingredients so you have extra to drizzle over side dishes like rice or pasta.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop and add freshly seared chicken.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave to maintain the creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of mustard?
Yes! While Dijon mustard is traditional, you can substitute with yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even spicy brown mustard if preferred.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a few hours ahead. Store them separately, and reheat them gently before serving to maintain the sauce's texture.

3. Can I freeze Creamy Dijon Chicken?
Cream-based sauces don't always freeze well, as they can separate when reheated. It's best to enjoy this dish fresh or store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat the chicken and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

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Conclusion

Creamy Dijon Chicken is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves rich, flavorful dishes that are easy to make yet taste gourmet. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its tender, juicy chicken and luscious mustard-infused cream sauce, it’s

a meal that will quickly become a household favorite. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home!

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