Creamy Dijon Chicken: A Simple Yet Elegant Dish

This Creamy Dijon Chicken is a quick and easy recipe that delivers rich flavors with minimal ingredients. The combination of tangy Dijon mustard and velvety cream creates a sauce that elevates simple chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or an elegant dinner at home, this dish requires little effort while providing a satisfying and comforting experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients – You likely already have everything in your kitchen.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Rich & Creamy Flavor – The Dijon mustard adds a bold yet balanced taste.
• Versatile – Pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

2. Sear the Chicken

• Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
• Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter.
• Sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
• Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
• Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Combine and Finish

• Return the chicken to the pan, spooning some sauce over it.
• Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
• Sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving.

Variations & Additions

• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Cheesy Twist – Stir in a bit of grated Parmesan for extra richness.
• Add Mushrooms – Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy flavor.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream and dairy-free butter.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work well—just increase the cooking time slightly.

What can I serve with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

Can I use a different mustard?

Yes, whole grain or even spicy brown mustard can work, but the flavor may be slightly different.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Simmer for a few extra minutes or whisk in a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water).

What if the sauce is too thick?

Thin it out with a splash of broth or cream.

Does this recipe work in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the chicken first, then cook in a slow cooker on low for 4 hours with the sauce ingredients.

Can I make this spicy?

Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Dijon Chicken is a fantastic recipe for when you need a quick, flavorful meal without a long ingredient list. With its rich sauce and simple preparation, it’s a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a dish that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to make.

Print