Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of garlic and tangy mustard wafting through the kitchen can instantly transform any ordinary evening into something special. French Mustard Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share stories with loved ones. This delightful one-pan recipe is a perfect blend of sweetness and savoriness, making it an incredible comfort food that’s sure to please everyone—even your pickiest eaters. Plus, its simple prep means you won’t be spending all day in the kitchen, freeing you to enjoy those golden moments with family. So, are you ready to dive into a dish that feels like a warm hug? Let’s get cooking! Why is French Mustard Chicken a must-try? Comforting flavors wrap around tender chicken, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug. One-pan simplicity means less cleanup, letting you savor the moment. Customizable to fit any taste, whether you prefer sweet honey or zesty mustard, this dish is versatile. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for the complete family experience. If you’re also looking for a refreshing option, consider trying Hawaiian Chicken Salad alongside. Enjoy a delightful evening filled with love and good food! French Mustard Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Chicken – Choose breasts, thighs, or drumsticks for the best mustard flavor absorption with each piece retaining its juiciness. For the Sauce Mustard – Use Dijon for a tangy kick or spicy brown for a more robust flavor experience. Honey or Apricot Preserves – Sweetness is key; swap honey for apricot preserves to create a unique flavor profile. For Seasoning Salt & Pepper – These essentials elevate the dish; don’t skimp on seasoning to enhance the mustard’s complexity. For Aromatics Fresh Herbs (e.g., parsley, basil) – Fresh herbs add brightness; use them for garnish for a dash of color and flavor. Oil – Olive oil works excellently for searing the chicken, giving it a delicious crust. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Mustard Chicken Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the French Mustard Chicken will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden crust. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and equipment, including an oven-safe skillet, as this will streamline your cooking process. Step 2: Sear the Chicken In your preheated skillet, drizzle in a couple of tablespoons of olive oil and allow it to heat over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. This browning not only enhances flavor but also provides a delightful contrast to the mustard glaze you’ll add later. Step 3: Prepare the Mustard Sauce While the chicken is searing, mix together your choice of mustard, honey (or apricot preserves), and fresh herbs in a bowl. Stir until well combined, creating a glossy sauce that brings together sweet and tangy flavors. Once your chicken is brown, it’s time to coat it generously with this delicious mixture. Step 4: Coat the Chicken Pour the prepared mustard sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet, making sure each piece is generously coated. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the sauce evenly, ensuring that all sides of the chicken bask in the flavorful glaze. This step infuses the chicken with that irresistible flavor we all love in French Mustard Chicken. Step 5: Bake the Chicken Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken; it should bubble invitingly and develop a mouthwatering aroma. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through and safe to eat. Step 6: Rest and Garnish Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of lemon zest to add a pop of color and fresh flavor to your irresistible French Mustard Chicken. What to Serve with French Mustard Chicken? The warmth of this one-pan dish creates the perfect canvas for building a delightful, well-rounded meal everyone will love. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of this classic side complements the mustard glaze, soaking up its delicious flavors. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts bring a caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy chicken. Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken, adding brightness and crunch. Crusty French Bread: Perfect for mopping up the irresistible mustard sauce, a warm loaf enhances the comforting experience of the meal. Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice infused with garlic and herbs offers a gentle, buttery base that harmonizes well with the bold mustard flavor. Steamed Asparagus: This fresh, tender side adds a pop of color and a light, earthy flavor, enhancing the overall presentation and taste of your meal. Consider pairing your French Mustard Chicken with a light, citrusy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to elevate your dining experience even further. Expert Tips for French Mustard Chicken Marinate Overnight: For maximum flavor, let the chicken soak in the mustard mixture overnight. This adds depth to the dish, making every bite delightful. Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This prevents undercooking and keeps your French Mustard Chicken juicy. One-Pan Magic: Take advantage of the one-pan technique. It simplifies cooking and cleanup, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your meal with family. Experiment with Mustard: Don’t hesitate to try different mustards. Spicy brown or whole grain can elevate your French Mustard Chicken with unique textures and flavors. Add Veggies: Consider adding sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the pan for extra nutrients and flavor. They complement the mustard’s tanginess beautifully. French Mustard Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to explore your culinary creativity and make this dish your own—every twist opens a new world of flavor! Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the mustard sauce for a flavorful heat that warms the soul. Veggie Boost: Toss in sliced mushrooms or bell peppers while the chicken bakes for added texture and a burst of color. Sweet Swap: Replace honey with brown sugar for a deeper sweetness, or try apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist in the sauce. Citrus Zing: Incorporate fresh lemon or orange juice into the sauce to brighten the flavors and elevate the overall dish. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth; they bring a lovely fragrance and earthiness. Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt after baking for a creamy finish that balances the tangy mustard beautifully. Huli Huli Style: Inspired by the flavors of Huli Huli Chicken, consider adding pineapple chunks or teriyaki sauce for a tropical twist and sweet touch. Grilled Version: For a smoky flavor, grill the seasoned chicken instead of baking, achieving a delightful char and aroma that will tantalize your taste buds. Each of these variations complements the original French Mustard Chicken recipe while inviting you to create something uniquely delicious! If you’d like more tasty options or recommendations, don’t miss out on trying a zesty Grilled Buffalo Chicken or a refreshing Chicken Bacon Ranch. Enjoy exploring the flavors! Make Ahead Options French Mustard Chicken is an ideal dish for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the mustard and honey sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Alternatively, you can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce, then refrigerate both components separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious French Mustard Chicken, simply combine the chicken with the sauce in an oven-safe skillet and bake as directed, ensuring that each bite is just as flavorful and tender as if made fresh. This method not only saves time but also guarantees that quality remains top-notch. How to Store and Freeze French Mustard Chicken Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the chicken retains its flavor and moisture. Freezer: Wrap tightly in freezer-safe packaging or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, preserving the juicy texture of the French Mustard Chicken. Marinating: For a future meal, consider marinating fresh chicken in the mustard sauce overnight before freezing; this enhances flavor once cooked. French Mustard Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of mustard should I use for French Mustard Chicken? Absolutely! For this dish, Dijon mustard is a favorite choice for its tangy kick, while spicy brown mustard introduces a more robust flavor. Both will beautifully complement your chicken, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences! How long can I store leftovers of French Mustard Chicken in the fridge? You can store your delicious French Mustard Chicken leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed to maintain its juicy texture and rich flavors! Can I freeze French Mustard Chicken? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze this delightful dish! Wrap the chicken tightly in freezer-safe packaging or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C). What should I do if the chicken is dry after baking? If your French Mustard Chicken turns out dry, it’s likely overcooked. To prevent this in the future, always check the temperature with a meat thermometer aiming for 165°F (75°C). If you find the chicken is dry after cooking, try serving it with a bit of the mustard sauce on top or add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to moisten it up. Are there any dietary considerations I should know about for this recipe? If you’re serving this dish to someone with food allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the mustard used. Some mustards may contain gluten or allergens. Additionally, for those avoiding sugar, substitute honey with a natural sweetener like agave syrup. Enjoy this dish confidently by adapting it to fit anyone’s needs! Cozy Up with French Mustard Chicken for Family Bliss French Mustard Chicken is a comforting dish with garlic and mustard that transforms any evening into family bliss. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: FrenchCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken4 pieces chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)For the Sauce1/4 cup Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard2 tablespoons honey or apricot preservesFor Seasoning1 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon black pepperFor Aromatics2 tablespoons fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, basil) for garnish2 tablespoons olive oil for searing Equipment oven-safe skillet Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and gather your ingredients.Drizzle olive oil in the skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken, and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side.Mix together mustard, honey (or apricot preserves), and fresh herbs in a bowl until well combined.Pour the mustard sauce over the seared chicken, ensuring all sides are coated.Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).Remove the chicken, let it rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon zest before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the mustard mixture overnight before cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
