As I was savoring a cozy dinner with friends, the warm aroma of creamy mustard filled the air, instantly igniting a passion for classic French cuisine. This Creamy Mustard Chicken, or Poulet à la Moutarde, is a delightful embrace of flavors that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a dining experience straight out of a Parisian bistro. What I love most about this recipe is its effortless one-pot preparation—perfect for busy evenings yet elegant enough to impress guests. Plus, it’s a family-friendly dish that guarantees smiles around the dinner table, making it a beloved favorite in my home. Are you ready to bring this French classic to life and discover just how simple gourmet cooking can be?
Why is Creamy Mustard Chicken a Must-Try?
Family-Friendly: This dish brings everyone together, turning dinner into a true celebration.
One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup while enjoying a mouthwatering meal that simmers all in one pot.
Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of Dijon mustards and crème fraîche creates a sauce that’s both comforting and decadent.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap chicken thighs for breasts or explore variations with flavors like garlic and tarragon to suit your taste.
Quick Prep: With minimal prep time, you’ll have a fabulous dinner ready to impress in no time.
Ideal for Meal Prep: Whether you’re stocking up for the week or hosting friends, this recipe is perfect for preparing ahead. Make it alongside our delicious Hot Honey Chicken for a feast!
French Mustard Chicken Ingredients
• Discover how to make this classic dish even more delicious!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Thighs (8 pieces, bone-in, skin-on) – Juicy and flavorful, making it perfect for a rich sauce, but boneless skinless breasts can be a quicker option.
For the Sauces
- Dijon Mustard (6 tablespoons) – Brings a unique tanginess that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- Whole Grain Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Adds texture and a depth of mustard flavor to the dish.
- Crème Fraîche (5 tablespoons) – Offers a creamy texture to the sauce; swap with equal parts heavy cream and sour cream if needed.
For the Base
- Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Forms the flavorful backbone of the sauce, adding moisture to the chicken.
- Butter (2 tablespoons) – Key for browning the chicken, adding richness to the overall dish.
For Aromatics
- Small Onion (1, sliced) – Infuses the dish with natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Small Shallot (1, sliced) – Provides a delicate sweetness that complements the onion beautifully.
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs (10-15) – Aromatic herbs that enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Adds a subtle depth to the sauce, enriching the overall taste.
For Garnish
- Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Adds a fresh touch on top before serving.
Seasoning
- Salt (¾ teaspoon) and Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Essential for enhancing every element of flavor in this French Mustard Chicken dish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Mustard Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the French Mustard Chicken cooks evenly and develops those rich flavors. While the oven is heating, you can prepare your other ingredients, making efficient use of your time.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Generously season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, rub the Dijon and whole grain mustards all over the chicken, ensuring each piece is nicely coated. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with that signature mustard flavor which will truly elevate your dish.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add the chicken thighs skin-side down and brown for 4–5 minutes until golden. Flip the thighs to brown the other side for another 4–5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside on a plate as you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the sliced onion and shallot, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Quickly scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift any browned bits, as they contribute wonderful flavor to the creamy mustard sauce.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Add the chicken broth to the pot, scraping away any remaining brown bits from the bottom. Toss in the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf, then elevate the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step helps marry the flavors and prepares for the rich sauce that will envelop the chicken.
Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Stir in the crème fraîche until it’s fully dissolved into the broth, creating a velvety sauce. Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot, skin-side up, making sure they’re nestled into the sauce. This is where the chicken absorbs the delicious flavors, making the dish shine.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook the French Mustard Chicken for 50–60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s done when the meat is tender and juicy, and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and discard the bay leaf. Garnish the dish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color. Serve the creamy mustard chicken warm, spooning generous amounts of sauce over the chicken. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
French Mustard Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your French Mustard Chicken with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!
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Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless breasts to save on cooking time. Just reduce the oven time to 25-30 minutes for juicy results.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Crème Fraîche with a blend of coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free alternative without sacrificing flavor.
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Garlic Boost: Introduce minced garlic when sautéing onions and shallots to infuse an aromatic depth into the dish. It’s a simple addition that elevates the overall flavor profile!
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Herb Variations: Incorporate tarragon, a classic pairing with mustard, for a fragrant twist. Its subtle anise-like flavor wonderfully complements the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a heat boost, perfect for spice lovers.
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Vegetable Twist: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or vibrant bell peppers during the sautéing step for added texture and nutrients.
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Whole Grain Upgrade: Use whole grain mustard instead of yellow mustard for a more robust and tangy flavor that adds complexity to the sauce.
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Batch Cooking: If you’re planning to make this for a crowd, consider preparing two batches separately: one with chicken and another with flavorful vegetables for a vegetarian alternative. Serve alongside our Street Corn Chicken for a fun meal combo!
With these variations, your French Mustard Chicken is about to become even more exciting, approachable, and completely yours!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Creamy Mustard Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. The mustard mixture can also be prepped ahead to ensure those flavors meld beautifully. To maintain quality, keep the chicken covered and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. When ready to serve, simply follow the assembly steps: combine the sautéed onions with the chicken and sauce ingredients, bake for 50-60 minutes, and enjoy a satisfying meal that tastes just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Expert Tips for French Mustard Chicken
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Chicken Choice: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for the juiciest results. If using breasts, reduce cooking time to prevent dryness.
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Sauté Well: Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and shallots; they should be translucent and fragrant. This step builds a strong flavor base for the creamy sauce.
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Scrape Those Bits: Be sure to scrape any brown bits from the pot when adding chicken broth. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich your sauce significantly.
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Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness. Keeping an eye on internal temperatures is key to ensuring succulent French Mustard Chicken.
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Make Ahead: Consider prepping the sauce a day in advance and refrigerating. This deepens the flavors and makes for an even quicker assembly when it’s time to cook.
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Pairing Ideas: Serve this dish with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that luscious sauce for a complete meal experience.
What to Serve with Creamy Mustard Chicken
Indulge in a complete culinary experience with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of this iconic French dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfectly fluffy and buttery, these mashed potatoes make for an ideal canvas to soak up the luscious mustard sauce.
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Steamed Green Beans: Bright and crisp, green beans add a refreshing crunch and vibrant color to your plate, balancing the dish’s creaminess.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fragrant, this rice dish carries hints of herbs that enhance the overall meal without overpowering the flavorful chicken.
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Crusty Baguette: Dive into the joys of French dining with a piece of freshly baked baguette, perfect for mopping up that irresistible creamy sauce.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, providing a palate-cleansing effect between bites of the rich chicken.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized and sweet, roasted carrots and parsnips offer a delightful texture alongside the savory chicken, creating a satisfying medley.
Don’t forget to pair your meal with a crisp white wine or a light-bodied red; they both elevate the experience, turning an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion!
How to Store and Freeze French Mustard Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before covering to preserve its texture.
Freezer: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, and don’t forget to label them!
Reheating: For best results, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain the creamy sauce’s consistency.
Batch Cooking: If making ahead, prepare the sauce and store it separately before combining with chicken to ensure freshness when reheating your French Mustard Chicken.
French Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the juiciest results. They provide rich flavor and moisture, especially when simmered in the creamy mustard sauce. If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can substitute, but remember to reduce the cooking time to about 25-30 minutes to avoid drying them out.
How should I store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftover French Mustard Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the chicken’s tenderness, make sure it has completely cooled before sealing the container. When ready to enjoy, just reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze French Mustard Chicken for up to 3 months. I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers for easy access later. Don’t forget to label each container with the date! When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until heated through.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find the sauce too thick, no worries! Simply stir in a little chicken broth or water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you’ll keep the creamy texture while adjusting the richness to your liking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This recipe is generally family-friendly; however, if anyone in your group has mustard allergies, you can still enjoy the dish by substituting Dijon mustard with a mix of mayonnaise and a splash of vinegar for a similar tanginess. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, use coconut cream in place of crème fraîche.
How long does the cooking process take?
From start to finish, this savory French Mustard Chicken takes about an hour and a half, including prep time and cooking in the oven. If you batch-cook or prep ahead, you can significantly cut down on this time, turning an ordinary dinner into a gourmet experience with ease!
Savory French Mustard Chicken: A Creamy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides, then coat with Dijon and whole grain mustards.
- In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium-high heat and brown the chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes on each side.
- Sauté the sliced onion and shallot for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot, bringing to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the crème fraîche until fully dissolved, then return the chicken to the pot.
- Cover the pot and bake for 50–60 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm with the sauce.
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