Dijon Chicken Breasts

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There’s something truly comforting about a dish that comes together effortlessly yet feels gourmet. That’s exactly how I feel about these Creamy Dijon Chicken Breasts—they’re simple to make but packed with rich, savory flavors. The combination of seared golden chicken breasts, a velvety Dijon mustard sauce, and fragrant herbs makes this a dish that feels special enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a weeknight meal.

I love how the tanginess of Dijon mustard balances with the creamy sauce, creating a depth of flavor that coats the chicken perfectly. Plus, this dish pairs beautifully with almost anything—mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a light salad. If you’re looking for an easy way to elevate your chicken dinner, this recipe is one to keep in your rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Dijon Chicken

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Rich & Flavorful: The creamy Dijon sauce adds a tangy, savory depth that elevates simple chicken breasts.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies—this dish works with so many sides.
• One-Pan Recipe: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: It stores and reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.

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What Kind of Mustard Should I Use?

Dijon mustard is the key ingredient in this recipe, giving the sauce its signature tangy, slightly sharp flavor. It’s smoother and creamier than yellow mustard, with a bit of spice that pairs perfectly with chicken. If you want a milder flavor, you can mix Dijon with a little honey mustard for a sweeter touch. Avoid regular yellow mustard, as it’s too sharp and acidic for this creamy sauce. Whole grain mustard can also work if you enjoy a bit of texture in your sauce.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or need to adjust for dietary preferences, here are some great swaps:

• Chicken Breasts → Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy.
• Dijon Mustard → Whole Grain Mustard: This adds texture and a slightly milder flavor.
• Heavy Cream → Half & Half or Milk: For a lighter sauce, use half & half, or even whole milk with a bit of cornstarch to thicken.
• Chicken Broth → White Wine: A splash of dry white wine adds depth and sophistication to the sauce.
• Butter → Olive Oil: For a dairy-free option, swap out the butter for olive oil.
• Garlic → Shallots: Shallots bring a mild, slightly sweet onion flavor that blends well with the sauce.

These swaps allow you to customize the dish to your taste while keeping the flavors balanced and delicious.

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Ingredients for Creamy Dijon Chicken

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating a rich, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, offering a lean protein that absorbs the creamy Dijon sauce beautifully.
• Salt & Pepper – A simple but essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Butter & Olive Oil – Using both adds depth of flavor while ensuring a perfect golden sear on the chicken.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic adds a fragrant, slightly spicy note that complements the mustard and cream.
• Chicken Broth – Creates the base of the sauce, adding savory depth. You can substitute with white wine for extra richness.
• Dijon Mustard – The star of the sauce, providing a tangy, slightly sharp taste that balances the creaminess.
• Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce luscious and smooth, coating the chicken in a velvety texture.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a subtle nuttiness and enhances the overall umami flavor of the sauce.
• Fresh Thyme (or Parsley) – A touch of fresh herbs adds color and brightness, balancing the richness of the sauce.

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the chicken and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic cooks quickly.

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Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine, if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds tons of flavor to the sauce. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, reducing slightly.

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Step 4: Make the Dijon Cream Sauce

Stir in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream, whisking to combine. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 2–3 minutes, thickening slightly. If you prefer a cheesier sauce, add the grated Parmesan at this stage and stir until melted.

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Step 5: Return the Chicken to the Pan

Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley. Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving to allow the flavors to settle. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

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How Long to Cook Creamy Dijon Chicken

Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Here’s a general guide:

• Searing: 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Simmering in sauce: 5–7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Total cooking time: About 15 minutes for average-sized chicken breasts.

If using thicker cuts, consider slicing them in half or pounding them to an even thickness for quicker, more even cooking.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Dijon Chicken

• Use Room-Temperature Chicken: This helps it cook evenly and prevents it from becoming tough.
• Don’t Skip the Searing: A golden crust locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor.
• Deglaze the Pan Properly: Scraping up the browned bits after searing enhances the sauce with rich, caramelized flavors.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Taste and Adjust: Dijon mustard varies in strength—start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) prevents overcooking while keeping it juicy.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a minute or two to lock in the juices before serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this dish is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts dry out quickly, so use a thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) but not beyond.
• Skipping the Sear: Searing adds flavor and texture, so don’t rush this step!
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast—keep the heat at medium and stir constantly to avoid bitterness.
• Curdling the Sauce: Adding cream too quickly to a very hot pan can cause it to separate. Lower the heat and stir continuously.
• Using Too Much Mustard: Dijon is bold—start small and adjust to taste.
• Not Deglazing the Pan: Those browned bits from the chicken add major flavor, so make sure to scrape them up!

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What to Serve With Creamy Dijon Chicken

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options:

1. Buttery Mashed Potatoes

The creamy Dijon sauce is perfect for spooning over fluffy mashed potatoes.

2. Garlic Butter Rice

A simple side that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and texture to your plate.

4. Steamed Green Beans

A light and fresh side to balance the richness of the sauce.

5. Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Great for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

6. Light Garden Salad

A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the creaminess.

7. Pasta or Egg Noodles

Toss with butter or olive oil and serve alongside for a complete meal.

8. Cauliflower Mash (Low-Carb Option)

A great alternative to mashed potatoes for a keto-friendly meal.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them while keeping the flavors intact:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but it will loosen when reheated.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. Avoid microwaving at high heat, as it can make the chicken rubbery.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following is an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 550mg

This dish is high in protein and relatively low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet. Adjust the ingredients as needed to fit your dietary preferences!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach 165°F (75°C).

2. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

Whole grain mustard is a great substitute. If you only have yellow mustard, mix it with a bit of honey to mellow out the sharpness.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative instead of heavy cream, and replace butter with olive oil.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Make sure to lower the heat before adding the cream and stir continuously to keep the sauce smooth.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

6. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer or add a small cornstarch slurry (mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water).

7. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s naturally low in carbs, especially if served with cauliflower mash or steamed veggies.

8. Can I add extra veggies to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes would be delicious additions to the creamy sauce.

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Conclusion

Creamy Dijon Chicken is the perfect balance of rich, tangy, and savory flavors, all made in one pan for an easy meal. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends—they’ll love it just as much as you do!

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