Why You’ll Love This French Mustard Chicken
This recipe brings a touch of French elegance to your table without the fuss, making it a go-to for anyone who loves flavorful meals that feel special. Imagine tender chicken smothered in a creamy mustard sauce that bursts with herbs and just the right tang. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
One reason this dish stands out is its ease of preparation, coming together in about 45 minutes with simple steps that even beginner cooks can handle. You’ll enjoy the health benefits too, as it’s packed with lean protein from the chicken to support your wellness goals, while keeping calories around 360 per serving. Plus, it adapts easily to different needs, like going gluten-free or vegan, and offers a distinctive flavor that makes every bite memorable.
Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this French Mustard Chicken adds versatility and excitement to your routine. The tangy mustard sauce paired with juicy chicken creates a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for its ability to please everyone at the table.
Jump To
- 1. Why You’ll Love This French Mustard Chicken
- 2. Essential Ingredients for French Mustard Chicken
- 3. How to Prepare the Perfect French Mustard Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
- 4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your French Mustard Chicken
- 5. Mastering French Mustard Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store French Mustard Chicken: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About French Mustard Chicken
- 8. French Mustard Chicken
Essential Ingredients for French Mustard Chicken
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine, and each one plays a role in creating that creamy, flavorful sauce. To get started, let’s break down everything you’ll need in a clear list. This ensures you have exactly what’s required for success in the kitchen.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut horizontally into thinner fillets
- Garlic salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 finely chopped shallots
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 to 2 bay leaves
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or rosemary for garnish
These ingredients make the recipe straightforward and delicious, blending everyday items with a few special touches. For special dietary options, you can swap chicken with firm tofu or seitan for vegan versions, or ensure your mustard is certified gluten-free. Keep in mind, using heavy cream here helps create that rich sauce, but you could try lighter alternatives if needed.
How to Prepare the Perfect French Mustard Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting this dish just right is all about following a few simple steps that build flavor along the way. Start by preparing your ingredients to make the process smooth and enjoyable. This guide walks you through each part, ensuring your French Mustard Chicken turns out tender and full of taste.
Step 1: Season and Sauté the Chicken
First, rub the chicken fillets with a mix of garlic salt, 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chicken on one side until it’s golden, then briefly on the other side until tender, and remove from the pan. This step takes about 5-7 minutes and sets the base for the dish.
Step 2: Make the Mustard Cream Sauce
Now, in the same skillet, sauté 2 finely chopped shallots and 2 cloves minced garlic until fragrant. Add 1/2 cup dry white wine and scrape the pan to release those tasty browned bits. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1 to 2 bay leaves, then let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. In a separate bowl, mix 3/4 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch, then stir this into the sauce and simmer until it thickens nicely.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken to the pan and let it rest in the covered sauce for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the chicken even more juicy. For variations, add fresh herbs like dill or thyme for garnish at the end. Explore similar stuffed chicken recipes for more ideas on enhancing your meals.
This method ensures the chicken stays moist and the sauce is creamy and full of depth. Remember, the total time is around 45 minutes, so it’s quick enough for any night of the week. Once done, serve it hot with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your French Mustard Chicken
Making this recipe your own is easy with a few smart swaps, allowing it to fit various lifestyles without losing that wonderful flavor. Whether you’re watching calories or following a specific diet, these changes keep things tasty and approachable. Let’s look at some options to make it work for you.
- Protein alternatives: Replace chicken with turkey breast, firm tofu, or seitan for a vegan twist.
- Sauce modifications: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt to lighten it up.
- Seasoning tweaks: Use shallots powder if you need to skip fresh shallots, or opt for lemon juice in place of mustard for a milder taste.
For those on gluten-free diets, just make sure your flour and mustard are certified gluten-free. Adding seasonal veggies like spinach or green beans can boost nutrition and variety, making the dish even more versatile.
Mastering French Mustard Chicken: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try some pro tips to take your French Mustard Chicken to the next level. Using techniques like a cast iron skillet helps with even browning and locks in flavor, while choosing smaller or organic chicken breasts keeps the meat tender. Remember, don’t overcook the thin cutlets to avoid dryness the flour and sugar in the rub add a nice golden color that makes it look as good as it tastes.
Tips for Better Results
Always use grainy Dijon mustard for that authentic flavor, and don’t skip the shallots as they add essential depth. If you want a richer sauce, stick with heavy cream instead of lighter options. For variations, experiment with herbs like tarragon or add white wine to deglaze the pan for extra punch. Here’s a quick table of common variations:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Herb Infusion | Add thyme or rosemary during cooking for a fresh twist. |
| Cooking Method | Try sous vide for perfectly tender chicken. |
| Presentation | Slice and drizzle sauce on top for an elegant plate. |
Make-ahead options include preparing the sauce in advance and reheating it with freshly cooked chicken. These ideas help you create memorable meals with minimal effort. Check out balsamic chicken recipes for more ways to vary your poultry dishes.
How to Store French Mustard Chicken: Best Practices
Keeping your leftovers fresh is simple with the right storage tips, so you can enjoy this meal over a few days. Store the cooked chicken in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain its taste and texture. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a bit of broth to keep the sauce creamy.
- Label containers with dates for easy meal prep rotation.
- Consider batch cooking to save time during busy weeks.
Nutritional estimates per serving include about 360 calories, 34 grams of protein, and 21 grams of fat, with low sugar and fiber content. This makes it a smart choice for balanced eating.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About French Mustard Chicken
What side dishes go well with French Mustard Chicken?
French Mustard Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Common choices include fresh pasta, French green beans (Haricots Vert), roasted new potatoes, and confit tomatoes. For a lighter option, try mashed cauliflower or a simple green salad. Roasted potatoes also complement the rich mustard sauce nicely, balancing flavors and textures.
Can I substitute heavy cream with milk or half and half in French Mustard Chicken?
It’s best to stick with heavy cream for this recipe because it creates the rich, velvety mustard sauce that defines the dish. Using milk or half and half can thin the sauce and weaken the flavor. If you want to reduce calories, consider using less sauce rather than substituting ingredients, as this helps maintain the intended taste and texture.
What cooking tips help make French Mustard Chicken tender and flavorful?
Choose small or organic chicken breasts for tenderness and avoid overcooking—thin cutlets cook quickly and can dry out. Sauté the chicken in a mix of butter and olive oil to balance moisture and flavor, and don’t skip the shallots, which add essential depth. Use grainy Dijon mustard, such as Maille, for an authentic taste. Cooking in a cast iron skillet promotes even browning and enhances flavor.
How far in advance can I prepare French Mustard Chicken?
You can prep components in advance by cutting and seasoning the chicken and measuring out ingredients ahead of time. The entire dish can be cooked a day before serving and gently reheated. This makes it convenient for meal planning or entertaining without compromising taste or texture.
Can fresh herbs be added to French Mustard Chicken for extra flavor?
Yes, fresh herbs add a wonderful aroma and flavor. Dill is a popular garnish that pairs well with the mustard sauce, but thyme and rosemary are great alternatives. Adding these herbs either during cooking or as a finishing touch can enhance the dish’s overall taste and presentation.

French Mustard Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
🇫🇷 Experience restaurant-quality French cuisine at home with tender chicken breasts in a rich, creamy mustard sauce
🌿 Impress your dinner guests with this elegant dish that combines classic French flavors with simple, foolproof techniques
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Garlic salt, to taste
– 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 2 finely chopped shallots
– 2 cloves minced garlic
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 to 2 bay leaves
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
1-Step 1: Season and Sauté the Chicken First, rub the chicken fillets with a mix of garlic salt, 1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chicken on one side until it’s golden, then briefly on the other side until tender, and remove from the pan. This step takes about 5-7 minutes and sets the base for the dish.
2-Step 2: Make the Mustard Cream Sauce Now, in the same skillet, sauté 2 finely chopped shallots and 2 cloves minced garlic until fragrant. Add 1/2 cup dry white wine and scrape the pan to release those tasty browned bits. Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth and 1 to 2 bay leaves, then let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. In a separate bowl, mix 3/4 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch, then stir this into the sauce and simmer until it thickens nicely.
3-Step 3: Combine and Finish Return the chicken to the pan and let it rest in the covered sauce for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the chicken even more juicy. For variations, add fresh herbs like dill or thyme for garnish at the end. Explore similar stuffed chicken recipes for more ideas on enhancing your meals.
Notes
🍗 Use smaller or organic chicken breasts for the most tender results – larger breasts can become tough
🍷 Don’t skip the shallots as they provide essential depth of flavor that regular onions can’t match
🔥 Use a cast iron skillet for better browning and more even heat distribution
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1069mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: French Mustard Chicken, Creamy Sauce, Herbs, Chicken Breasts

