Creamy Dijon Rosemary Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Creamy Dijon Rosemary Chicken is incredibly easy to make and comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of Dijon mustard, heavy cream, and fresh rosemary creates a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. It’s a rich, comforting dish that’s full of depth and complexity without being overly heavy. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy sauce and tender chicken.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup chicken broth

• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

   • Add the Dijon mustard and stir to combine with the garlic.

   • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

   • Add the chopped rosemary and stir. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice for a hint of acidity.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to reheat.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the chicken breasts with the creamy Dijon rosemary sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite side dish (such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables).

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can add mushrooms, spinach, or leeks to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Herb Variation: You can swap out rosemary for thyme, sage, or tarragon for a different herbaceous flavor.

• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch for a lighter version of the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to thin the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe as they are juicier and more flavorful. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the thighs, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I use a different kind of mustard?

While Dijon mustard is ideal for its tangy and smooth flavor, you can experiment with whole-grain mustard or yellow mustard for a different taste.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken separately. Reheat both when ready to serve and combine them for a quick meal.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reduces to your desired consistency. You can also whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water if you want a quicker thickening option.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

Creamy Dijon Rosemary Chicken pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

7. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover chicken and sauce. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently reheat on the stovetop.

8. Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried rosemary, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones.

9. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

10. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes, you can stir in grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese to make the sauce even creamier and richer.

Conclusion

Creamy Dijon Rosemary Chicken is a comforting, elegant, and easy-to-make dish that brings rich, savory flavors to your dinner table. The creamy Dijon sauce combined with the aromatic rosemary perfectly complements the tender chicken. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, offering a balance of richness and brightness. Enjoy the creamy goodness in every bite!

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