This Chicken with Creamy French Mustard Sauce is a luxurious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of whole-grain mustard, chicken broth, and a rich, creamy sauce brings a sophisticated touch to simple chicken breasts. Garnished with fresh herbs, this dish is both visually appealing and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup full-fat milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Sauté the Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the Mustards:
- Add the whole-grain mustard and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir to combine with the garlic.
- Add the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in Milk and Sour Cream:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the full-fat milk and sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Stir in the chopped fresh thyme and parsley.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the Chicken:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and thicken the sauce slightly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Thickness of Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Chicken Thighs: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Variations
Add Vegetables
- Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet when sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach leaves at the end for a nutritious addition.
Make it Spicy
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
Make it Dairy-Free
- Coconut Milk: Substitute the full-fat milk and sour cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version of this dish.
Serving Suggestions
With Rice or Pasta
- Rice: Serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of steamed rice.
- Pasta: Pair with your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
With Vegetables
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store separately in the refrigerator and combine just before serving.
Chicken with Creamy French Mustard Sauce is a delightful and elegant dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. The combination of creamy sauce, whole-grain mustard, and fresh herbs creates a rich and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and serving suggestions to make this dish your own!
