Chicken with Mustard and Mushrooms

This recipe for Creamy Mustard Chicken with Mushrooms brings together the rich taste of mushrooms, the tang of mustard, and the tender, juicy texture of seared chicken. It’s an easy dish that makes for a comforting meal, suitable for lunch and special occasions. Here’s how you can make this delicious recipe with detailed instructions.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 250 grams (about 9 oz) of mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or your favorite variety)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 150 ml (about 5 fl oz) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
   • Start by rinsing the chicken breasts under cool water, then pat them dry with paper towels.
   • Sprinkle each piece with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the creamy sauce.
   • Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a wide skillet over medium-high heat.
   • When the oil is sufficiently heated, place the chicken breasts into the pan. Sear them for approximately 5-6 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. The goal is to get a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
   • Take the chicken out of the skillet and transfer it to a plate, setting it aside. Cover with foil to keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
   • Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir and cook over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a savory base for the sauce.
2. Add the Mushrooms:
   • Slice the mushrooms thinly and add them to the pan with the onion and garlic.
   • Stir to coat the mushrooms in the oil, and cook for 5-7 minutes. Allow them to release their moisture and then begin to brown. This enhances their flavor, making them rich and earthy.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

1. Add the White Wine (Optional):
   • Add 1 cup of dry white wine to the pan to lift and mix in the flavorful bits from the bottom. This step helps to lift the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet, which will enrich the sauce.
   • Let the wine simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly. The alcohol will evaporate, leaving a subtle hint of acidity that balances the creaminess of the dish.
   • If you’d rather avoid using wine, feel free to replace it with either chicken broth or water.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce

1. Stir in the Dijon Mustard:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard to the pan. Stir well to combine it with the onion, garlic, and mushrooms. The mustard adds a tangy depth of flavor, giving the dish a zesty note.
2. Pour in the Cream:
   • Slowly add the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring continuously to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
   • Season with a bit of salt and pepper, adjusting the taste as needed.
   • Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes on low heat, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Reintroduce the Chicken:
   • Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, arranging them within the creamy mustard and mushroom sauce.
   • Spoon some sauce over the chicken to ensure they are well-coated.
   • Place a lid on the skillet and lower the heat to a gentle simmer.. Let everything cook together for another 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Step 6: Serve the Dish

1. Plate the Chicken:
   • Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a serving plate. Pour the creamy mustard and mushroom sauce over the top, making sure each piece is generously coated.
2. Suggested Side Dishes:
   • This dish pairs wonderfully with various side options, enhancing their flavors. Consider serving it with steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles to soak up the rich sauce.
   • For a lighter meal, you can serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Mustard Chicken with Mushrooms

1. Choose Quality Ingredients:
   • Opt for fresh mushrooms, and if possible, use fresh herbs. Fresh ingredients will always enhance the flavor of your dish.
2. Don’t Skip the Searing:
   • Searing the chicken at the beginning locks in the juices, giving the chicken a tender, moist texture. Plus, the browned bits left in the pan add incredible flavor to the sauce.
3. Control the Sauce Consistency:
   • If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash of chicken broth or extra cream. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to reduce and thicken.