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Creamy mustard chicken in a rich garlic mustard sauce served in a skillet with fresh herbs.

Best Chicken in Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe – Easy One-Pan Creamy Chicken Dinner

Make the best Chicken in Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe with tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic mustard cream sauce. This easy one-pan dinner is perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, European, French-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Small whisk
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Creamy Mustard Sauce

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper. If the chicken breasts are thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion or shallots and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

  • Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to release the flavorful browned bits.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce

  • Stir in the Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard (if using), and heavy cream. Whisk until smooth and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Return the Chicken

  • Place the chicken back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

  • Add thyme and lemon juice if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a juicier texture.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it.
  • For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
  • Always keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from separating.
  • Fresh herbs such as tarragon or rosemary can enhance the flavor of the dish.
Keyword Chicken in Creamy Mustard Sauce Recipe, creamy chicken skillet, creamy mustard chicken, Dijon mustard chicken, easy chicken dinner recipe, French chicken recipe, One-pan chicken recipe, quick chicken dinner