Description
Succulent Dijon chicken delights palates with its rich, tangy sauce that elevates weeknight dinners. Creamy mustard-infused goodness promises a simple yet elegant meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 teaspoon fresh thyme)
Cooking and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard (optional, for texture)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by thoroughly drying it with clean paper towels, then generously season with a blend of salt, pepper, aromatic garlic powder, and vibrant paprika to enhance its flavor profile.
- Create a golden sear by heating a combination of olive oil and butter in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature. Carefully place the seasoned chicken in the pan, cooking each side for approximately 5-6 minutes until a rich, caramelized exterior develops and the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C. Gently transfer the perfectly cooked chicken to a separate plate.
- Transform the same skillet into a flavor foundation by quickly sautéing minced garlic until its fragrance fills the kitchen. Pour in chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to lift and incorporate the delectable browned bits clinging to the pan’s surface. Whisk in a harmonious blend of Dijon mustard, rustic whole grain mustard, tangy Worcestershire sauce, bright lemon juice, and aromatic thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer briefly, concentrating the flavors.
- Transition the sauce to a luxurious consistency by reducing the heat and stirring in velvety heavy cream and nutty Parmesan cheese. Gently simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, creating a smooth, rich coating.
- Return the golden chicken to the skillet, lovingly bathing it in the creamy mustard sauce. Let the chicken warm through for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring complete flavor integration.
- Present the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, accompanied by your choice of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Always pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that seals in moisture and enhances flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken’s internal temperature, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy texture.
- Consider using Greek yogurt or half-and-half as lighter cream alternatives for a reduced-calorie version of the sauce.
- Swap chicken for turkey or plant-based protein like tofu for dietary flexibility, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg