This Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s an elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- Italian seasoning, for seasoning chicken
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dijon Wine Sauce:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3-4 thyme sprigs (leaves of those sprigs)
- 1 tablespoon flour (wheat or rice flour)
- ½ cup white wine
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken thighs with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down. Sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for another 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dijon Wine Sauce
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and thyme leaves, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Flour:
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in ½ cup of white wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
- Add Chicken Stock and Cream:
- Stir in 1 cup of chicken stock and ½ cup of heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
- Incorporate the Dijon Mustard:
- Stir in 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine and Cook
- Return the Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Simmer:
- Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Make sure to occasionally spoon the sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
Step 4: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: Ensure the chicken thighs are cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Wine: Choose a dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for the best flavor. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute additional chicken stock.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables:
- Add sliced mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Different Herbs:
- Substitute thyme with rosemary or tarragon for a different herb flavor.
- Spicy Kick:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and chicken together in a skillet.
4. What can I serve with this Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce?
Serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
5. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
The Rich and Creamy Delight of Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce
This Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, high-quality mustard, and good wine will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Proper Searing: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a perfect sear.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially the salt and pepper.
Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a comforting and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!
