Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to delve into the delightful world of a classic comfort dish – Mustard Smothered Chicken. This dish, with its tender chicken and tangy mustard sauce, is a testament to the magic that can happen when simple ingredients are cooked with love and care.
Mustard Smothered Chicken is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. It’s a comforting meal that brings together the succulent flavors of chicken with the tangy kick of mustard. While it’s not clear where this dish originated, it’s a staple in many Southern and Midwestern homes in the United States.
What makes Mustard Smothered Chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of flavors. The chicken is cooked until it’s tender and juicy, while the mustard sauce adds a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the chicken. It’s a dish that’s comforting yet exciting, familiar yet full of surprises.
Mustard Smothered Chicken
Equipment
- Dutch oven
- 1 plate
Ingredients
- 8 chicken breasts bone-in and skin on
- 6 Tbsp. of mustard
- 1 Tbsp. of Dijon mustard
- 2 Tbsp. of butter soft
- 5 Tbsp. of crème fraiche
- 1 cup of chicken stock
- 10 to 15 sprigs of thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 onion thinly sliced
- 1 shallot thinly sliced
- Parsley chopped and for garnish
- Dash of salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Season the chicken with a dash of black pepper and salt. Rub the regular mustard over the chicken.
- In a Dutch oven set over medium to high heat, add in the butter. Add in
- the chicken and cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer onto a plate and set aside.
- Add the sliced shallot and onion into the Dutch over. Cook for 5 minutes or until soft.
- Add in the chicken stock and deglaze the bottom of the pan. Add in the sprigs of thyme and the cooked chicken. Stir gently to mix. Add in the crème fraiche and stir gently to incorporate.
- Transfer the Dutch oven into the oven to braise for 50 minutes to 1 hour.
- Remove from heat and serve with a garnish of chopped parsley.
Video
Notes
The star of this dish is the flavorful mustard sauce that coats the chicken breasts. To make the sauce, combine Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, honey, minced garlic, and a pinch of dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients and set it aside. The combination of the two mustards adds complexity and depth to the dish, while the touch of honey balances out the flavors.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Mustard Smothered Chicken: A Detailed Guide
Creating the perfect Mustard Smothered Chicken involves more than just following a recipe. It’s about understanding the techniques and nuances that can elevate your dish from good to exceptional. Here are some detailed tips to help you master this classic comfort food:
1. Choose the right cut: The Foundation of Flavor
The choice of chicken cut plays a crucial role in the outcome of your Mustard Smothered Chicken. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than boneless, skinless cuts. The bones contribute to the depth of flavor in the dish, while the skin helps to keep the meat moist during cooking.
If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts are a good option, but keep in mind that they can easily become dry if overcooked. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are more forgiving and remain juicy and tender even after prolonged cooking.
2. Sear the chicken: The Secret to Succulent Meat
Searing the chicken before smothering it in the sauce is a key step that should not be skipped. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, browns the surface of the chicken and develops complex flavors that can’t be achieved through simmering alone.
To sear the chicken, heat some oil in a pan until it’s hot but not smoking. Add the chicken pieces, skin-side down, and cook without moving them until the skin is golden brown and releases easily from the pan. Then flip the chicken and brown the other side. Remember, at this stage, you’re not trying to cook the chicken through, but just to get a nice color on the outside.
3. Balance the flavors: The Art of the Perfect Sauce
The mustard sauce is what sets Mustard Smothered Chicken apart from other chicken dishes. It should be tangy but not overpowering, with a balance of flavors that complements the chicken.
To achieve this balance, start with a good-quality mustard. Dijon mustard is a classic choice that gives a smooth and slightly spicy flavor. You can also experiment with whole grain mustard for a milder flavor and added texture.
Balance the tanginess of the mustard with a touch of sweetness. This could come from honey, brown sugar, or even a sweet white wine. Finally, add some cream or a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) to thicken the sauce and give it a rich, velvety texture.
4. Cook it low and slow: The Key to Tender Chicken
Once your chicken is seared and your sauce is ready, it’s time to combine them and let the magic happen. Add the chicken back into the pan, smother it in the sauce, and then cook it on low heat until it’s tender and cooked through.
Cooking the chicken low and slow allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender without drying out. Be patient and resist the temptation to increase the heat to speed up the process. The result will be worth the wait!
Making perfect Mustard Smothered Chicken is a labor of love that requires attention to detail and an understanding of cooking techniques. But when you take that first bite of your perfectly cooked, flavor-packed chicken, you’ll know that every moment spent was worth it.
Serving Suggestion
Serving your Mustard Smothered Chicken is not just about placing a dish on the table; it’s about creating a memorable dining experience. Here are some detailed suggestions:
1. Side Dishes: Balance and Variety
While the Mustard Smothered Chicken is undoubtedly the star of the show, the right side dishes can complement it and create a balanced meal. For a classic combination, consider serving your Mustard Smothered Chicken with a side of mashed potatoes. The creamy, buttery potatoes pair beautifully with the tangy mustard sauce.
For a lighter option, a green salad with a vinaigrette dressing could provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken. If you want to add another dimension of flavor, consider a side of roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa or wild rice.
2. Drink Pairing: The Perfect Sip
The drink you serve with your Mustard Smothered Chicken can enhance the overall dining experience. A glass of white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc, would go beautifully with your chicken. The acidity and fruitiness of the wine can balance out the richness of the chicken and the tanginess of the mustard.
If you prefer beer, a light beer or a pale ale could also pair well with this dish. The bitterness of the beer can balance out the tanginess of the mustard and complement the savory chicken.
3. Presentation: The Art of Plating
The way you present your Mustard Smothered Chicken can turn a simple meal into a special occasion. Arrange your chicken on a beautiful plate, drizzle the mustard sauce artistically, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a touch of color. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so taking the time to present your dish beautifully can make the dining experience even more enjoyable.
4. Accompaniments: The Final Touch
To round off your meal, consider serving some accompaniments with your Mustard Smothered Chicken. A basket of warm, crusty bread can be great for mopping up the delicious mustard sauce. Alternatively, a tangy pickle or a dollop of chutney could add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.
Serving your Mustard Smothered Chicken is an opportunity to create a dining experience that delights all the senses. From the perfect side dishes to the right drink pairing, beautiful presentation, and thoughtful accompaniments, each element contributes to a meal that is not only delicious but also memorable.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mustard Smothered Chicken:
1. Can I use a different type of meat for my Mustard Smothered Chicken?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat to make your Mustard Smothered Chicken. While chicken is traditional, you could also try using turkey or pork. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type and cut of meat you use.
2. Can I add vegetables to my Mustard Smothered Chicken?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables can provide additional flavors and textures to your dish. Root vegetables like carrots or potatoes can be added to the pan and roasted alongside the chicken. Alternatively, you could serve your Mustard Smothered Chicken on a bed of sautéed greens like spinach or kale.
3. How do I know when my Mustard Smothered Chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your Mustard Smothered Chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.
4. Can I make a dairy-free version of Mustard Smothered Chicken?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of Mustard Smothered Chicken by substituting the cream in the sauce with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor of the sauce slightly.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftover Mustard Smothered Chicken can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before freezing it, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until it’s heated through.
You’ve successfully prepared a flavorful and comforting dish that will impress your family and friends: Mustard Smothered Chicken. With its tender chicken breasts smothered in a delightful mustard sauce, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of Dijon and whole-grain mustard, along with a touch of honey, creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal, and savor the joy of creating a memorable dining experience. Bon appétit!