Creamy Mustard Tarragon Chicken

Creamy mustard tarragon chicken is the kind of simple dinner that feels special without being complicated.

The sauce is smooth, fragrant, and made without wine or alcohol.

Ingredients

• 650 g chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into large pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion or 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 120 ml chicken stock
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon wholegrain mustard, optional
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
• 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice, optional

How to Make Creamy Mustard Tarragon Chicken

Brown the chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Remove it from the pan and keep it aside.

Build the sauce

Add the onion and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic for 30 seconds, then pour in the chicken stock. Scrape the bottom of the pan to collect the browned flavor.

Add cream and mustard

Lower the heat. Stir in the cream, Dijon mustard, and wholegrain mustard if using. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer gently for 12 to 15 minutes, until fully cooked.

Finish with tarragon

Add the fresh tarragon at the end so it keeps its aroma. A small splash of lemon juice can brighten the sauce before serving.

Conclusion

Serve this chicken with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer so it stays creamy and does not split.