Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe

Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe: A Tangy French-Inspired Delight

Weeknight dinners demand something special like this creamy dijon chicken that promises instant comfort.

My kitchen adventures often start with unexpected flavor combinations.

Mustard’s tangy punch transforms ordinary protein into something remarkable.

Simple ingredients come together in less than thirty minutes.

Rich cream and zesty dijon create a sauce that feels luxurious yet approachable.

Home cooks seeking a quick meal will appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together.

I promise you’ll want to bookmark this recipe for your next meal rotation.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Meal Variations

  • Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a creamy, lactose-free version that maintains rich flavor.
  • Low-Carb Champion: Swap chicken broth for bone broth and use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to reduce carbohydrates while keeping the sauce creamy.
  • Herb-Infused Option: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired variation that elevates the classic Dijon chicken.
  • Spicy Kick Rendition: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to create a zesty version with extra heat and depth of flavor.

FAQs

  • What type of mustard works best in this recipe?

Dijon mustard is the key ingredient, offering a tangy, sharp flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Grey Poupon or any quality Dijon mustard will work well.

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re often more tender and flavorful, and will work wonderfully with the creamy Dijon sauce.

  • How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.

  • Is this recipe suitable for low-carb diets?

Absolutely! This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it an excellent option for those following low-carb or keto eating plans.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe With An Elegant Twist

  • Whip Up Quickly: Super easy recipe that takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Mild Dijon flavor appeals to both adults and kids, making it a crowd-pleasing meal everyone will enjoy.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes and simple cooking technique mean less cleanup and more relaxation after meal preparation.
  • Elegant Yet Simple: Restaurant-quality dish that looks impressive but requires basic cooking skills, ideal for home cooks wanting to elevate their dinner game.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Prep Notes

Main Protein:
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender, lean meat that absorbs flavors wonderfully and creates the base of the dish.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Dijon Mustard: Sharp, tangy condiment that adds depth and zesty character to the sauce.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a robust, savory undertone to the chicken.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the overall taste profile.
Sauce and Cooking Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Rich, smooth liquid that creates a luxurious and velvety sauce texture.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid base that adds moisture and enhances the overall chicken flavor.
  • Olive Oil: Healthy cooking fat that helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle fruity note.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb that provides a fresh, clean garnish and color contrast.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Chicken for Searing

Sprinkle salt and pepper generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring an even coating that will create a delightful flavor base for the dish.

Step 2: Sizzle and Brown Chicken

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Gently place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan, allowing them to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Cook each side until a lovely caramel-like color appears, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 3: Temporarily Remove Chicken

Transfer the beautifully seared chicken to a clean plate, keeping it warm and ready to return to the sauce later.

Step 4: Create Flavor-Packed Sauce Base

In the same skillet with remaining oil and chicken drippings, add:
  • Minced garlic
  • Dijon mustard
  • Chicken broth

Stir these ingredients together, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan to maximize flavor.

Step 5: Enrich the Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and gently stir, allowing the sauce to come to a gentle simmer.

The sauce will start to thicken and become wonderfully creamy.

Step 6: Final Cooking Stage

Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling the pieces into the luscious sauce.

Cover the pan and let everything cook together, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce reaches a perfect consistency.

Step 7: Serve with Flair

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Plate immediately and enjoy this restaurant-quality meal straight from your kitchen.

What To Watch For In Creamy Dijon Chicken

  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a golden-brown crust that locks in moisture and flavor.
  • Adjust Dijon mustard quantity based on your taste preference; start with less and add more gradually for a balanced sauce.
  • Simmer sauce gently to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, velvety texture without curdling.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content and customize the dish for dietary needs.
  • Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or chives instead of parsley to add a unique aromatic twist to the dish.

Creamy Dijon Chicken: Keep It Fresh

  • Store leftover Dijon chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Carefully pack the chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers, where it can last up to 2 months without losing flavor quality.
  • Warm chicken in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Gently reheat individual portions on medium power in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly and preserve sauce consistency.

Dijon Chicken Flavor Partners

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creamy Dijon sauce, balancing its richness with bright, zesty notes.
  • Serve with Roasted Vegetable Medley: Honey-glazed carrots, herbed zucchini, and caramelized Brussels sprouts complement the chicken's tangy mustard flavor and provide colorful texture.
  • Create Rustic Bread Accompaniment: Crusty French baguette or sourdough slices help soak up the delicious Dijon cream sauce, adding a satisfying crunch and additional flavor dimension.
  • Match with Herbed Potato Side: Roasted rosemary and garlic fingerling potatoes provide a hearty, earthy counterpoint to the creamy chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe

Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy dijon chicken elevates weeknight dinners with its luxurious blend of tangy mustard and rich cream sauce. Savory chicken breasts nestle in a silky sauce that promises comfort and sophistication with each delectable bite you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth

Seasoning and Aromatics:

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) pepper

Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Delicately coat the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, ensuring even seasoning across both surfaces.
  2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, creating a sizzling environment for searing.
  3. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, allowing each side to develop a golden-brown crust, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
  4. Transfer the beautifully seared chicken to a temporary plate, preserving its crispy exterior.
  5. Without cleaning the skillet, introduce minced garlic, releasing its aromatic essence into the remaining pan drippings.
  6. Whisk in Dijon mustard and chicken broth, scraping the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the sauce’s depth.
  7. Pour in heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, velvety consistency that begins to bubble gently.
  8. Reintroduce the seared chicken into the creamy sauce, reducing heat to a gentle simmer.
  9. Cover the skillet and allow the chicken to cook thoroughly, ensuring the sauce thickens and the meat reaches perfect doneness.
  10. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a vibrant, herbaceous finish before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Perfectly tenderize chicken by pounding it to an even thickness before seasoning, ensuring uniform cooking and juiciness.
  • Enhance flavor depth by using whole grain Dijon mustard, which adds extra texture and a more robust mustard profile.
  • Accommodate dairy-free diets by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk for a lighter, plant-based alternative.
  • Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium chicken broth and controlling salt amounts during seasoning for a heart-healthier version of the dish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
Emily Harper

Emily Harper

Nutrition Consultant & Recipe Analyst

Expertise

Healthy Recipe Modification, Nutritional Analysis & Meal Planning, Global Cuisine & Dietary Adaptations​

Education

School: French Pastry School, Chicago, IL

Program: L’Art de la Pâtisserie

Focus: Intensive training in traditional French pastry techniques, baking theory, and confectionery arts. ​


Emily’s journey started in a pastry kitchen but took a detour into the world of health and flavor science.
Graduating from the French Pastry School and studying nutrition opened her eyes to a new mission: making healthy food taste like something you’d actually crave.
At Dining At Home, Emily’s the go-to for smart, feel-good recipes that don’t trade flavor for nutrition.
She’s all about adding a fresh spin on old favorites and finding small ways to make everyday meals a little brighter.
Outside of the kitchen, Emily is most at home walking forest trails, testing plant-based recipes, or sharing a picnic under a wide-open sky.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star