If you're looking for a mouthwatering chicken dish that’s easy to prepare yet elegant enough for a dinner party, this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe is exactly what you need. The tangy flavor of Dijon mustard blends perfectly with the richness of cream to create a dish that feels both indulgent and balanced. Read on to discover how to make this delicious recipe, get tips for variations, and avoid common cooking mistakes.

What is Creamy Dijon Chicken?
Creamy Dijon Chicken is a simple yet luxurious dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with Dijon mustard. The mustard adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce, while ingredients like garlic, white wine, and herbs elevate the dish to another level. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients List for Creamy Dijon Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard (optional, for texture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for added brightness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredients List for Creamy Dijon Chicken Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup sour cream or crème fraîche (for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky touch)
Substitutions and Variations
There are several ways to customize this Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Chicken thighs instead of breasts: For a juicier, more flavorful alternative, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
- Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream: To make the dish lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for the heavy cream. This will give you a slightly tangier sauce but with fewer calories.
- Non-alcoholic white wine or chicken broth: If you prefer not to use alcohol, swap the dry white wine with additional chicken broth for a similar depth of flavor.
- Mustard variations: You can replace Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard for a rustic texture or honey mustard for a slightly sweeter sauce.
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free butter alternative for those with lactose intolerance or dietary restrictions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Create the Sauce: Add the chicken broth and Dijon mustard to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, whole grain mustard, and thyme. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 5-7 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce.
- Return the Chicken: Add the seared chicken breasts back to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in lemon juice, then taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or mustard if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Cook Creamy Dijon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
This Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe is fairly straightforward, but paying attention to each step will ensure that your dish turns out perfectly. Start by properly searing the chicken breasts to lock in moisture and flavor. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, sear the chicken in batches to get a nice golden crust.
Next, the key to a flavorful sauce is to build it in layers. Deglazing the pan with white wine lifts the caramelized bits from the bottom, adding depth to the sauce. Using both Dijon mustard and whole grain mustard creates a balance between tanginess and texture. Heavy cream provides a velvety richness, while chicken broth adds a savory backbone.
Finally, don’t rush the simmering process. Let the sauce reduce slightly to concentrate the flavors. When the chicken is reintroduced to the skillet, it will soak up the sauce and become infused with its creamy, tangy notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out easily if overcooked. Make sure to cook them just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Not reducing the sauce enough: If the sauce is too thin, it won't cling to the chicken properly. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce to a thicker consistency before serving.
- Skipping the deglazing step: Those browned bits on the bottom of the skillet are full of flavor, so make sure to scrape them up when adding the liquid.
- Using low-quality mustard: Since Dijon mustard is the star of the sauce, opt for a high-quality brand to ensure the best flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
For the best dining experience, serve Creamy Dijon Chicken with sides that complement the rich sauce. Some great options include:
- Mashed potatoes: The creaminess of the potatoes pairs perfectly with the mustard sauce.
- Rice or couscous: These grains will absorb the sauce, making each bite delicious.
- Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add color and freshness to the plate.
- Crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is ideal for soaking up any extra sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Dijon Chicken
Serve Creamy Dijon Chicken family-style in the skillet, or plate it individually for a more elegant presentation. Spoon extra sauce over the chicken to ensure every bite is flavorful. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for a vibrant pop of color.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Dijon Chicken
- Rustic elegance: Serve the chicken directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic yet refined look. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices on the side.
- Minimalist plating: For a sleek presentation, place a single chicken breast on a white plate, surrounded by a pool of sauce and garnished with a small sprig of parsley.
- Layered on a bed of starch: Serve the chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes or couscous, with the sauce drizzled over both the chicken and the starch for a cohesive plate.
Creamy Dijon Chicken Recipe Tips
- Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time: This will streamline the cooking process, allowing you to focus on each step without scrambling to measure or chop ingredients.
- Don’t skimp on the mustard: The mustard is what gives this dish its signature flavor, so be generous when adding it to the sauce.
- Adjust thickness with cornstarch: If your sauce ends up too thin, you can thicken it with a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Dijon Chicken?
A: While the chicken itself freezes well, the sauce may not due to the cream. If you do freeze the dish, stir the sauce well upon reheating to bring it back together.
Q: Can I make this recipe without wine?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for the white wine without sacrificing too much flavor.
Q: How can I lighten this recipe?
A: To make a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and a lean protein like chicken breasts or turkey cutlets.
Conclusion
Creamy Dijon Chicken is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. The combination of tangy mustard and rich cream creates a sauce that’s perfect for chicken, while the simple, straightforward cooking process ensures you can make this dish without a hassle. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy the rich flavors of this delicious dish!
PrintCreamy Dijon Chicken Recipe
Creamy Dijon Chicken is a savory dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich, velvety Dijon mustard sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a balance of tangy and creamy flavors. Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts
- Dijon mustard
- Heavy cream
- Chicken broth
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Onion
- Fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet, season chicken with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in Dijon mustard and chicken broth, simmering for a few minutes.
- Add heavy cream and fresh thyme, then return the chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with your favorite side.
Notes
- You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480 mg
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