This Creamy Dijon Chicken recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious, velvety mustard sauce, creating a dish that feels like something you’d enjoy at a high-end restaurant. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make at home in just one skillet! The rich, creamy sauce with the tangy Dijon mustard is beautifully balanced by fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese, making this meal not only a treat for your taste buds but also a breeze to prepare on any weeknight. The best part? It’s quick and fuss-free, making it ideal for busy evenings when you want something delicious without the hassle. Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional, for added texture)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds a lot of flavor). Let the broth simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly. Then, whisk in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard (if using), and thyme until smooth.
- Thicken the Sauce: Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Finish the Dish: Add the fresh spinach leaves to the sauce, stirring gently until the spinach wilts, about 2–3 minutes. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them. Simmer for 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the chicken to absorb the sauce’s flavors.
- Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken for a fresh finish. Serve the creamy Dijon chicken with your choice of sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget a crusty baguette to soak up that delicious sauce!
This Creamy Dijon Chicken is the perfect combination of rich, creamy, and savory flavors with a touch of tang from the Dijon mustard. It’s the ideal meal for those seeking comfort without compromising on taste or elegance. Enjoy this easy recipe for a gourmet dinner that’s sure to impress!
