Name: One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (cut into 8 pieces) or 4 chicken quarters; 1 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste); 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (plus more to taste); 2 tsp ghee (or your favorite cooking oil); 1 cup chopped onions; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup bone broth (or chicken broth); 3 tbsp dijon mustard; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves; 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream, if not dairy free)

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If you are looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with incredible ease, this One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine juicy chicken pieces seared to golden perfection and then roasted in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the tang of Dijon mustard and the fragrant hint of thyme. This recipe takes simplicity and elevates it, giving you a comforting, yet elegant meal served from just one pan—making cleanup as effortless as the cooking. It is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds several raw chicken pieces, each sprinkled with black pepper. The chicken pieces vary in shape and size, including wings and other cuts, showing a pale pink color with moist, smooth skin. The black pepper is spread evenly over each piece, giving a speckled texture on top. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward and key to delivering that outstanding depth of flavor and creamy texture you crave. Each component plays a special role, from the crispy chicken skin to the silky sauce that brings everything together so beautifully.

1 whole chicken (or 4 chicken quarters): Choosing bone-in pieces ensures juicy, flavorful meat that stays tender through roasting.
1 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.
1/4 tsp ground black pepper (plus more to taste): Adds a mild heat and complexity to the dish.
2 tsp ghee (or your favorite cooking oil): Ghee adds a rich, buttery flavor and helps achieve the perfect sear on the chicken skin.
1 cup chopped onions: Caramelize beautifully to infuse sweetness and body into the sauce.
4 garlic cloves (minced): Offers a pungent, aromatic layer that pairs perfectly with Dijon mustard.
1 cup bone broth (or chicken broth): Provides depth and moisture, creating the perfect base for the sauce.
3 tbsp Dijon mustard: The star that gives the sauce its signature tangy kick and creamy texture.
1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves: Adds a subtle earthy fragrance that brightens the entire dish.
1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or heavy cream, if not dairy free): Richens the sauce to creamy perfection without overpowering the other flavors.

How to Make One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If using a whole chicken, carefully cut it into 8 pieces for even cooking. Generously sprinkle the chicken pieces with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Seasoning early ensures the flavors penetrate the meat while cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the ghee in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken skin side down. Let it sizzle for about 5 minutes to render the fat and achieve a gorgeous golden, crisp skin. Flip the pieces over to cook the other side for 3 minutes. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onions. Cook them while stirring for 3 minutes until they become translucent and start to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and stir for an additional minute to release its fragrance without burning.

Step 4: Deglaze and Make the Sauce

Pour in the bone broth, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme, stirring everything well. Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan to lift all the flavorful browned bits—this step is crucial for a deeply rich sauce.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Nestle the chicken pieces back into the skillet, skin side up, to keep the skin crispy during roasting. Transfer the entire pan to the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and is tender to the touch.

Step 6: Finish the Creamy Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and set aside. Place the skillet back on medium-high heat on the stovetop and simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. Whisk in the coconut milk gently and allow it to simmer another minute, turning the sauce silky smooth.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Turn off the heat, return the chicken pieces to the skillet, and spoon that luscious sauce over the top. Now your One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe is ready to enjoy, with every bite bursting with flavor and cozy comfort.

How to Serve One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe

On a white plate placed on a white marbled surface, there are two pieces of cooked chicken covered by a thick, creamy sauce with small bits of onions and herbs. The chicken is golden brown with some black pepper specks showing through the sauce. Small green herb sprigs add contrast on top of the sauce. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate, and a piece of chicken is held on the fork by a woman's hand. A striped kitchen cloth is partially visible in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs never fail to brighten a dish visually and flavor-wise. Sprinkle a few extra fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley over the chicken just before serving. A small drizzle of extra coconut milk or a thin ribbon of Dijon mustard swirled artfully across the plate takes this dish to the next level in presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with light, simple sides that soak up the sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery roasted vegetables, or garlic-infused steamed green beans complement the richness perfectly. For a lighter touch, fluffy cauliflower rice or a crisp green salad work brilliantly to balance the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic family-style dinner, serve everything directly from the skillet at the table so guests can help themselves. Alternatively, plate each chicken piece individually on warm plates, spooning plenty of sauce over it and arranging sides artistically around for a restaurant-worthy experience. Using a bright white dish really makes the golden chicken and creamy sauce pop visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to include plenty of sauce when storing to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the chicken and sauce together for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container and leave a bit of space at the top as the sauce may expand slightly. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, covered, adding a splash of broth or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving whenever possible to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken or quarters?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time since breasts cook quicker. Sear as usual and roast for about 15-20 minutes until they reach 165 degrees internally, keeping a close eye to avoid dryness.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, if you substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk as suggested, this dish is completely dairy-free and still wonderfully creamy and satisfying.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop only?

You could, but roasting in the oven helps the chicken cook evenly and develop crisp skin while the sauce thickens. If you skip the oven, cover and simmer on low heat until cooked through, but the texture will differ slightly.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme can be used as a substitute; just use about one-third of the amount called for in fresh leaves since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When it hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit, the chicken is safe to eat and perfect in texture.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Easy Creamy Dijon Mustard Chicken Recipe truly brings together simplicity, flavor, and comfort in one delicious package. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, it offers a warm hug of a meal with minimal fuss. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite at your table!