When you think of comforting and satisfying dishes, French cuisine always comes to mind. One such dish that has garnered love from many home cooks and gourmets alike is French Mustard Chicken. This delightful recipe features tender chicken breasts enveloped in a creamy, zesty mustard sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or cooking for a casual family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Why We Love This French Mustard Chicken Recipe
This French Mustard Chicken recipe is cherished for multiple reasons. First, it is incredibly straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. You only need a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, so it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner when time is of the essence.
Moreover, its flavor profile is undoubtedly a standout. The tanginess from the mustard, balanced with the creaminess of the heavy cream, creates a dish that is rich yet fresh. It pairs well with various side dishes, allowing you to customize your meal to your preferences or what you have available.
Last but certainly not least, this dish looks as good as it tastes. When served, the vibrant sauce glistens and beckons your family and friends to dig in, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Ingredients for French Mustard Chicken
To recreate this mouthwatering dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make French Mustard Chicken
The journey to a delicious French Mustard Chicken begins with a simple yet effective approach. First, you should season your chicken breasts with a generous amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial step enhances the chicken’s flavor and sets the tone for the rest of the cooking process.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and are thoroughly cooked. This browning process not only adds flavor to the chicken but also helps seal in its natural juices. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. After the butter has melted, introduce 1 finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion for approximately 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and tender. Next, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute, allowing the aromatic flavors to meld beautifully.
Now it’s time to create the creamy mustard sauce. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance your sauce considerably. Once you’ve incorporated the broth, lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 3 minutes.
At this stage, it’s time to add the creamy elements. Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream along with 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of whole grain mustard. The combination of these mustards gives the sauce a unique depth of flavor. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, mixing everything together. Allow this luscious sauce to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.
Once your sauce reaches the desired consistency, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Coat each piece generously with the mustard sauce, ensuring they are well covered. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.
If you like, finish off the dish by garnishing it with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley before serving. This final touch adds a hint of color and freshness, making your dish not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
How to Serve French Mustard Chicken
When it comes to serving your French Mustard Chicken, the possibilities are endless. You can dish it out with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal, or serve it on a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that delectable mustard sauce. Alternatively, consider pairing it with a fresh salad for a lighter option that brightens the plate.
Don’t forget about bread! A crusty baguette works wonders to mop up any remaining sauce, ensuring none of that rich flavor goes to waste. For a touch of elegance, serve your chicken in shallow bowls to allow the sauce to surround the meat, creating an eye-catching presentation.
The great thing about this dish is that you can easily adapt it to suit your meal’s theme. Serve it with a nice sparkling water or a simple herbal tea to keep it refreshing and light.
Expert Tips: French Mustard Chicken
To elevate your French Mustard Chicken even further, consider these expert tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, such as thyme and parsley, can significantly improve the flavor of your dish. Fresh garlic also gives a more vibrant taste compared to pre-minced garlic.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, consider marinating the chicken breasts in a mixture of Dijon mustard, olive oil, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. This infuses the meat with flavor and ensures juiciness.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow each step to develop flavors fully. Browning the chicken and sautéing the onions and garlic properly makes a difference in the final taste.
- Adjust the Mustard: Feel free to adjust the mustard quantities according to your personal preference. If you enjoy a stronger mustard flavor, add a bit more Dijon mustard.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can create a slurry by combining a tablespoon of cornstarch with water, then stir it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
How to Store French Mustard Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your French Mustard Chicken is quite easy. Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to ensure it stays moist as it warms up. Alternatively, you can use a microwave; just ensure you cover the container to prevent it from drying out.
For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and it should last for about 2 to 3 months. To reheat frozen chicken, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it in a skillet or microwave.
Variations of French Mustard Chicken
While the original French Mustard Chicken recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can explore to cater to your tastes or dietary preferences.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce for added texture and nutrition. Sauté these vegetables after the onions and garlic for a delightful twist.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with various herbs. Replacing thyme with rosemary or tarragon can impart exciting new flavors that complement the mustard beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy some heat, try incorporating a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an exciting spicy kick.
- Substitute Protein: While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can easily substitute the chicken breasts with turkey cutlets or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Different Mustards: For a unique flavor profile, try mixing different types of mustard, like honey mustard for a sweeter touch or spicy brown mustard for more heat.
FAQ about French Mustard Chicken
What makes French Mustard Chicken so special?
French Mustard Chicken is unique due to its delicious combination of flavors from the mustards, cream, and chicken. The cooking method enhances the taste, making it a comforting and flavorful option for any meal.
Can I make French Mustard Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can prepare French Mustard Chicken ahead of time. It stores well and can be reheated for a quick meal later on, making it a convenient option for busy individuals or families.
What should I serve with French Mustard Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, including rice, mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. Feel free to choose what best fits your taste!
How long can I keep leftovers of French Mustard Chicken?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days. Ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
French Mustard Chicken
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter
- 1 onion Finely Chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 0.5 cup Heavy Cream
- 3 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
- 1 tablespoon Whole Grain Mustard
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme Leaves
- 1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Parsley For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Let it simmer for 3 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and thyme. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the sauce. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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