Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce made with two types of mustard and fresh herbs. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of effort. The slow cooker method ensures the chicken is juicy and infused with the savory flavors of mustard and herbs, making it a family favorite.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the Recipe
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook’s Tips for Success
- Variations and Creative Twists
- FAQs About Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken
- Conclusion
1. Overview of the Recipe
Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken is a delicious main dish that pairs well with a variety of sides such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. The combination of whole grain mustard, Dijon mustard, and creamy sauces like heavy cream and sour cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats the chicken breasts perfectly. This recipe is sure to become a go-to for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation:
- Gather all the ingredients and prepare your slow cooker.
1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker insert.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, whole grain mustard, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir well to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, sour cream, chopped thyme, and parsley.
3. Combine and Cook:
- Pour the creamy mustard sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
4. Cook in the Slow Cooker:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken breasts are cooked through and tender.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, garnish with extra chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
- Serve the creamy French mustard chicken hot over rice or with your favorite side dishes.
4. Cook’s Tips for Success
- Chicken Breasts: Use chicken breasts that are similar in size for even cooking.
- Mustard: Adjust the amount of whole grain and Dijon mustard to suit your taste preferences.
- Creamy Sauce: For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Variations and Creative Twists
Creamy Herb Chicken:
- Add additional fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the sauce for extra aromatic flavors.
Spicy Mustard Chicken:
- Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
Lemon Mustard Chicken:
- Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright citrusy twist.
6. FAQs About Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed for thighs.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover creamy French mustard chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked creamy French mustard chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and cook in the slow cooker.
Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the richness of mustard with the creaminess of heavy cream and sour cream, creating a luxurious sauce that’s perfect for coating tender chicken breasts. This recipe is versatile, comforting, and ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. Enjoy the savory flavors and creamy texture of this slow cooker favorite!
