Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe

Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce is a delectable dish that brings together the robust flavors of Creole cuisine with the comforting creaminess of a rich mustard sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of spice and tang in their meals. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

The Appeal of Creole Cuisine

Creole cuisine is a fusion of various cultural influences, primarily French, Spanish, African, and Native American. It’s known for its bold flavors, vibrant spices, and rich sauces. This Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce captures the essence of Creole cooking with its spicy, tangy, and creamy profile.

Ingredients Needed

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Creole mustard (or spicy brown mustard as a substitute)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ons

• 1/4 cup white wine (for deglazing the pan)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for added tang)
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme (for additional flavor depth)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Prep the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
2. Chop the onion and garlic: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a skillet: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Making the Creole Mustard Cream Sauce

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
2. Deglaze the pan: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute or two until reduced.
3. Add the liquids: Stir in the chicken broth, Creole mustard, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
4. Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and thyme (if using). Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the chicken to the skillet: Place the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top.
2. Simmer together: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce over a bed of rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of steamed vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Variations and Customizations

Different Proteins

• Pork: Try this recipe with pork chops for a different but equally delicious result.
• Fish: Firm white fish like cod or halibut work well with this sauce.

Alternative Mustards

• Dijon Mustard: For a milder flavor.
• Whole Grain Mustard: For a bit more texture and a unique twist.

Tips for Perfect Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce

1. Don’t overcook the chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Adjust the spice level: Feel free to reduce or increase the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
3. Let the sauce reduce: Allowing the sauce to simmer and reduce will concentrate the flavors and thicken the consistency.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
• Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and ability to lower cholesterol levels.
• Mustard: Contains antioxidants and is low in calories.

Conclusion

Chicken with Creole Mustard Cream Sauce is a flavorful, creamy, and slightly spicy dish that’s sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion. Experiment with different proteins and mustards to make this recipe your own.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may add more flavor due to their higher fat content.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the chicken.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat them together before serving. However, the sauce may thicken upon cooling, so you might need to add a bit of chicken broth when reheating.

4. What can I use if I don’t have Creole mustard?

Spicy brown mustard or Dijon mustard are good substitutes for Creole mustard.

5. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s best to freeze the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Source: spicysouthernkitchen.com