Name: Creamy French Mustard Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs; Kosher salt; Freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup diced shallots ((2 medium shallots)); 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tablespoons whole-grain Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; Coarsely chopped fresh parsley leaves (for serving (optional))

Introduction to Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Why Creamy French Mustard Chicken Is the Perfect Home-Cooked Meal

Are you in search of a delightful, comforting dish that’s both impressive and easy to make? Look no further than skillet creamy French mustard chicken! This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a symphony of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table.

Imagine tender, bone-in chicken thighs seared to golden perfection, then lovingly braised in a rich, creamy sauce with hints of whole-grain Dijon mustard. The mustard adds a tantalizing depth that perfectly balances with the creamy texture, making each bite an explosion of flavors.

Whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe delivers both comfort and sophistication. Plus, with a prep time of only 15 minutes and a total cook time under an hour, it fits perfectly into the busy lives of young professionals.

You can elevate your cooking game without sacrificing your valuable time. Not only does this dish celebrate simple, everyday ingredients, but it also encourages you to explore new culinary paths. So, grab your skillet and let’s dive into this delicious journey!

For more tips on mastering chicken dishes, check out this guide.

Ingredients for Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Essential ingredients you need to make creamy goodness

Creating your delicious Creamy French Mustard Chicken starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for a crispy chicken sear.
Bone-in Chicken Thighs: 2 pounds, offering rich flavor and juiciness.
Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing taste.
Diced Shallots: ½ cup (about 2 medium shallots) adds a subtle sweetness.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 1 cup for a comforting base without excess salt.
Whole-Grain Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons for a robust mustard flavor.
Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons, adding a zesty kick.
Heavy Cream: 2 tablespoons for that creamy finish.
Fresh Parsley: Opt for coarsely chopped leaves for a bright garnish.

These ingredients blend beautifully to create a sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights. Ready to get started? Check The Kitchn for more culinary inspiration!

Step-by-step Preparation for Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Creating a delicious Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken is an enjoyable culinary adventure that will impress your friends and family. Follow these simple steps to ensure you get the most flavorful and perfectly cooked chicken.

Preheat and Prepare Your Cooking Area

Start by arranging a rack in the middle of your oven and preheating it to 400°F. This will set the stage for roasting the chicken to perfection later. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and utensils. Having everything ready will help streamline the cooking process. Trust me; it makes a world of difference!

Sear the Chicken to Perfection

Once your oven is ready, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan heats up, pat the 2 pounds of chicken thighs dry using paper towels, and season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. When the oil is shimmering, place the chicken skin-side down in the pan. Sear for about 6 to 8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden-brown, allowing the fat to render out. This crispy skin is essential for flavor! Transfer the chicken to a plate skin-side up and remove excess fat from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon behind for flavor.

Sauté Shallots and Create a Flavorful Base

In the same skillet, add ½ cup of diced shallots and sauté them over medium heat for about 3 minutes until softened. This step is crucial as it builds the foundation of flavor for your creamy French mustard chicken. Don’t forget to scrape up those delicious browned bits at the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon as you sauté! They’ll add extra depth to your dish.

Combine Broth and Mustards for a Rich Sauce

Next, incorporate 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and 2 tablespoons each of whole-grain and Dijon mustard into the mix. Bring this mixture to a simmer; the tangy mustards will elevate the sauce, making it richly flavorful. Once it’s bubbling, return the chicken to the skillet skin-side up, making sure to add any juices that collected on the plate.

Bake the Chicken to Juicy, Tender Perfection

Braise your chicken in the oven uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, look for clear juices running from the chicken to ensure it's cooked thoroughly.

Finish the Sauce with Cream for a Dreamy Texture

After baking, transfer the chicken to a platter, then return the skillet to medium-high heat. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream into the sauce, allowing it to simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve this velvety sauce underneath the chicken to keep the skin crispy. Consider garnishing with coarsely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!

And there you have it—a delicious meal that’s bound to impress! For more cooking tips, check out Serious Eats for a dive into cooking techniques that expand your kitchen skills!

Variations on Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Creamy Mustard Chicken with Fresh Herbs

Elevate your creamy French mustard chicken by introducing a medley of fresh herbs. Simply add chopped thyme, rosemary, or tarragon to your sauce for an aromatic touch. These herbs not only enhance flavor but also add a delightful freshness that complements the rich creaminess. For an extra zing, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten your dish beautifully.

Skillet Creamy Mustard Chicken with Veggies

Looking to sneak in some healthy veggies? Roasting seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach in the same skillet as your creamy mustard chicken creates a delicious one-pan meal. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with the tang of the mustard sauce, making dinner both nutritious and satisfying. Serve with a side of quinoa or a light salad to complete the meal! Consider checking out Nutrition.gov for tips on maximizing your veggie intake.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Best Cookware for the Job

Using a cast iron skillet is ideal for this creamy French mustard chicken. Its excellent heat retention allows for even cooking and a beautifully seared skin. If you don't have one, any large, oven-safe non-stick skillet will also work. Just make sure it's robust enough to withstand high heat.

Tips for Achieving Crispy Skin

Crispy skin is the star of this dish! Here are some tips:

Pat the chicken dry: Removing moisture is key for that golden crunch.
Don't overcrowd the pan: Give each piece space to sear properly—this helps maintain crispiness.
Sear skin-side down: Start with this side facing the skillet to render the fat and achieve that beautiful browning.

With these tips in hand, you'll serve up a delicious and perfectly crispy creamy French mustard chicken that will impress! For more insights on achieving crispy chicken skin, consider checking out expert resources like Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Ideal Side Dishes to Enhance Your Meal

To create a well-rounded dining experience with your Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken, consider pairing it with:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture complements the rich sauce.
Steamed Asparagus: A touch of elegance with a refreshing crunch.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet yet earthy, these add a beautiful color contrast.
Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up any lingering sauce on your plate!

For some light bites, consider a simple green salad. Drizzle it with a vinaigrette for a crisp, vibrant contrast.

Serving Styles That Impress Your Guests

Elevate the dining experience with these stylish serving ideas:

Family-style Platter: Arrange the chicken attractively on a large platter, with the sauce poured over, inviting guests to help themselves.
Individual Plates: For an elegant touch, serve each portion topped with fresh parsley and a side of your chosen accompaniments.
Centerpiece Presentation: Use a wooden board to display the chicken alongside sides—it's rustic and charming.

Creating an inviting table setting with candles or flowers can also enhance the atmosphere. Remember, the experience is just as important as the meal!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out The Kitchn for additional side dish ideas and serving tips!

Time Breakdown for Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Preparation time
Getting your ingredients prepped is crucial for smooth cooking. Set aside 10 to 15 minutes to dice shallots, season chicken, and gather your pantry essentials. Organized prep can make meal time feel more like fun and less like a race against the clock!

Cooking time
Once everything is ready, the actual cooking will take about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll sear the chicken to crispy perfection and then let it braise in a rich, mustardy sauce. Don’t rush this part! Your patience will reward you with tender, flavorful chicken.

Total time
In just under an hour, ideally around 45 to 50 minutes, you can have a delicious and impressive meal that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Time flies when you’re cooking something this delightful!

If you're curious about how the mustard elevates this dish, check out this insightful guide on mustard. Want to explore more ways to shorten your cooking time? This article on meal prep might just provide the inspiration you need!

Nutritional Facts for Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

When you whip up this delicious dish, it’s good to know what you’re getting on your plate! Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional facts for one serving of Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken:

Calories: Approximately 380 calories per serving, making this a hearty yet balanced meal option.
Protein: Packed with around 30 grams of protein, this dish is perfect for those looking to fuel their day.
Sodium: Keep an eye on sodium levels—about 600 mg per serving—especially if you're watching your salt intake.

For more insights on nutrition, you might want to check out The USDA FoodData Central. If you're curious about adding some side dishes to balance the meal, consider a fresh salad or roasted vegetables!

FAQs about Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

Can I use skinless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer skinless chicken thighs, feel free to substitute them in this creamy French mustard chicken recipe. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might be a bit shorter as skinless chicken tends to cook faster. You may also want to adjust the amount of seasoning to enhance flavor, since the skin adds extra richness.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can use alternatives like half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickness. A fantastic dairy-free option is coconut cream, which adds a unique twist to the dish. You could also try sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. Just remember to stir these in gently to maintain a creamy consistency.

How can I adjust the mustard for a milder flavor?

If you’re sensitive to mustard's bite, you can lighten its intensity by reducing the amount used. Start with one tablespoon of each type (whole-grain and Dijon) and taste as you go. Adding a bit of honey or maple syrup can also help balance the flavor without completely losing that creamy French mustard chicken essence. Adjust according to your palate, and enjoy the process!

For more tips and ideas, check out this article on cooking with mustard, which explores various flavor profiles and uses.

Conclusion on Skillet Creamy French Mustard Chicken

In just a few simple steps, you can create a delightful creamy French mustard chicken that’s packed with flavor. With its rich sauce and tender chicken, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Treat yourself and indulge in this culinary delight!