Indulging in a richly flavored dish that embodies comfort and elegance is always a win in my book. Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts is one such recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests at a get-together, this dish merges the savory zest of Dijon mustard with the velvety texture of heavy cream. It’s a delightful balance that transforms simple chicken breasts into a gourmet experience with minimal effort.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is a gem for numerous reasons! First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still want something delicious on the table. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor; you’ll likely have most of these ingredients on hand already. Furthermore, the creamy sauce is a major kid-approved feature. Substitute the Dijon for a milder mustard if your little ones are picky, and you’ll still end up with a tasty dish that everyone will enjoy.
“This creamy Dijon chicken is now a staple in our dinner rotation! The sauce is so flavorful and pairs perfectly with rice. It felt fancy without being complicated.” – A satisfied home cook
Step-by-step overview
Preparing Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts is straightforward and satisfying. Start by seasoning and searing the chicken to achieve that delicious golden-brown crust. While the chicken cooks, you’ll whip up a creamy Dijon sauce that brings the whole dish together. With a quick simmer and a few simple ingredients, dinner can be ready in about 30 minutes.
What you’ll need
Get your ingredients gathered for this delicious meal. Here’s the list:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Feel free to experiment with your pantry! For example, if you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute with half-and-half, or use Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just know that it will change the sauce’s final texture.
Step-by-step instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add in the heavy cream, honey, and lemon juice, mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over each piece. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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What to serve it with
Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the luscious sauce. A side of steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans adds a fresh touch, while a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon will cut through the richness perfectly.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days. When it’s time to eat again, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze the chicken in the sauce for up to three months; just let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
For optimal results, always ensure your chicken is pounded to an even thickness before cooking. This will promote even cooking and prevent any dry spots. If you love a hint of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an exciting kick.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to switch things up! Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. If you adore mushrooms, sauté them alongside the garlic for an earthy addition. You can even make this dish gluten-free by checking your Dijon mustard and using a gluten-free chicken broth.
Common questions
What is the prep time for Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking usually takes about 20 minutes, making for a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version, though the sauce’s richness will vary.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat gently to enjoy the best texture.
Making Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts is straightforward, enjoyable, and the end result is a dish that feels both fancy and comforting. You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again!
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Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-free option available
Description
A creamy and flavorful dish combining Dijon mustard and heavy cream, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and Dijon mustard, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add in the heavy cream, honey, and lemon juice, mixing well. Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the sauce over each piece. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Feel free to switch Dijon for a milder mustard for picky eaters. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken, creamy sauce, Dijon mustard, easy recipe, weeknight dinner
