Dijon Mushroom Cream Chicken is the ultimate comfort food. This dish combines tender chicken breasts, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon sauce to create a flavorful and elegant meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this delicious dish.
What is Dijon Mushroom Cream Chicken?
Dijon Mushroom Cream Chicken is a creamy and savory chicken dish made with seared chicken breasts, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich Dijon mustard sauce. The tanginess of Dijon mustard pairs beautifully with the earthy flavors of mushrooms, creating a balanced and luxurious sauce.
This dish is versatile and works well with various side dishes like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Moreover, it’s quick to prepare yet fancy enough for a dinner party.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
- Flavor-Packed: The Dijon mustard and mushrooms create a perfect harmony of tangy and earthy flavors.
- Customizable: Adjust the sauce’s creaminess or add additional ingredients to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
- Elegant: Perfect for entertaining guests.
Ingredients for Dijon Mushroom Cream Chicken
Chicken and Mushrooms
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless. Alternatively, chicken thighs work too.
- Mushrooms: Cremini or white button mushrooms for their mild flavor. Slice them thinly for even cooking.
Sauce Ingredients
- Dijon Mustard: The star ingredient for a tangy kick.
- Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the sauce.
- Chicken Stock: For depth of flavor.
- Shallots: Finely diced for a mild onion flavor.
- Garlic: Minced, for an aromatic base.
- Butter: To sauté the mushrooms and enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Optional Add-Ons
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish.
- A splash of white wine for added depth in the sauce.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt and pepper on both sides. As you do this, make sure your skillet is preheating for even cooking.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or butter, which helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Afterward, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step2: Sautéing the Mushrooms
- In the same skillet, add more butter if needed. This ensures the mushrooms absorb rich flavors.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the shallots and garlic. Allow these ingredients to cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This enhances the sauce’s depth of flavor while softening the shallots.
Step 3: Making the Dijon Cream Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium and stir in the Dijon mustard. Doing this step slowly prevents burning.
- Pour in the chicken stock. As you do, scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. This step captures all the rich browned bits.
- Add the heavy cream gradually and stir well. This ensures the sauce comes together smoothly without curdling.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Doing this lets the chicken absorb the sauce’s flavors fully.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken. Allow it to simmer gently for 10 minutes to enhance the taste and ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving. This final touch makes the dish visually appealing and fragrant.
Serving Suggestions
Dijon Mushroom Cream Chicken pairs well with various sides:
- Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Rice or Quinoa: A lighter option, especially for weeknight meals.
- Pasta: For a hearty meal, consider serving over fettuccine or penne.
- Roasted Vegetables: To add a healthy touch and some color to your plate.
Wine Pairing
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Additionally, the wine’s acidity complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Variations and Customizations
Add Vegetables
- Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach at the end for added nutrition. Additionally, this provides a pop of green color.
- Peas: Add a pop of color and sweetness, balancing the tangy sauce nicely.
Make It Low-Carb
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Consequently, this keeps it keto-friendly.
- Serve with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
Enhance the Sauce
- Add a splash of white wine while deglazing the skillet. This boosts the flavor complexity.
- Stir in grated Parmesan for extra richness. This addition makes the dish even more indulgent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work well and add extra flavor due to their higher fat content. Furthermore, they remain juicy even after simmering.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but the cream sauce might separate upon reheating. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version. As a result, the dish remains creamy but dairy-free.
What other mushrooms can I use?
Portobello or shiitake mushrooms are great alternatives for a more robust flavor. Additionally, they add a meatier texture to the dish.
External Links for Inspiration
- Learn about the health benefits of mushrooms on Healthline.
- Discover easy chicken dinner ideas on Delish.
- Explore tips for cooking with Dijon mustard at The Spruce Eats.
Conclusion
Dijon Mushroom Cream Chicken is a must-try recipe that combines simplicity with sophistication. Furthermore, the creamy Dijon sauce, tender chicken, and sautéed mushrooms create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!