This exquisite chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce recipe is a symphony of flavors. Tender chicken thighs are seared to perfection, then simmered in a luscious cream sauce enriched with robust grainy mustard and aromatic tarragon. Paired with buttery noodles, it's a dish that is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Photos of Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe
While most of the ingredients are fairly common, tarragon might not be readily available in your pantry. This herb, known for its sweet, anise-like flavor, is a key component of the recipe. Similarly, grainy mustard, adds a delightful tang and texture to the cream sauce. When shopping, ensure you pick up fresh tarragon and a high-quality grainy mustard.
Ingredients for Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a base for searing the chicken, and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
Boneless chicken thighs: Their juicy and tender meat absorbs flavor well.
Salt and freshly ground pepper: Enhances the natural flavors of the dish.
White mushrooms: Adds an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
Shallot: Brings a delicate, slightly sweet flavor.
Dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
Chicken stock or low sodium broth: Forms the base of the cream sauce.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and creamy texture to the sauce.
Grainy mustard: Provides a tangy flavor and grainy texture.
Tarragon: Imparts a sweet, anise-like flavor.
Noodles: Serves as a comforting, filling accompaniment to the chicken.
One reader, Birch Kuntz says:
This chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and the sauce is incredibly creamy. The combination of tarragon and mustard adds a unique twist that's simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, comforting meal.
Mastering the Techniques for Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
How to brown the chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and brown the seasoned chicken over high heat, turning once, until browned but not cooked through, for about 4 to 5 minutes.
How to make the cream sauce: After removing the chicken, add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook over high heat until browned. Then, add the shallot, wine, stock, cream, and mustard. Bring to a boil and cook until the sauce has reduced by half, about 6 minutes.
How to finish the dish: Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in the tarragon. Serve with buttered noodles.
How to serve with wine: Pair with a balanced, elegant chardonnay such as the 2005 Jean-Marc Brocard Bourgogne Blanc Kimmeridgien.
How To Make Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
With buttered noodles, chicken thighs are simmered in a savory mustard cream sauce of chicken stock, dry white wine, and mushrooms for a filling dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1½lbchicken thighs,skinless boneless, cut into ½-inch strips
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- ½lbwhite mushrooms,thinly sliced
- 1large shallot,minced
- ¾cupdry white wine
- 1¼cupschicken stock,or low sodium broth
- ½cupheavy cream
- 2tbspgrainy mustard
- 2tbsptarragon,chopped
- buttered noodles,for serving
Instructions
-
In a very large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and add it to the skillet in a single layer. Cook over high heat, turning once, for 4 to 5 minutes until browned but not cooked through.
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Using a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken to a plate. Pour off any fat in the skillet.
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Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Add the mushrooms and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes until browned. Add the shallot and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
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Add the wine and cook for about 4 minutes until reduced to 2 tablespoons. Add the stock, cream, and mustard and bring to a boil. Cook for about 6 minutes until the sauce has reduced by half.
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Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the skillet and simmer over moderate heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through; season with salt and pepper. Stir in the tarragon.
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Serve with buttered noodles.
Nutrition
- Calories: 669.57kcal
- Fat: 50.89g
- Saturated Fat: 16.28g
- Trans Fat: 0.15g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 23.00g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.75g
- Carbohydrates: 12.13g
- Fiber: 1.93g
- Sugar: 5.21g
- Protein: 33.59g
- Cholesterol: 209.70mg
- Sodium: 967.51mg
- Calcium: 71.70mg
- Potassium: 792.82mg
- Iron: 2.68mg
- Vitamin A: 165.49µg
- Vitamin C: 3.77mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
When cooking the chicken, it's important to not fully cook it in the initial browning stage. This allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the tarragon-mustard cream sauce during the simmering process, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish. Also, when reducing the sauce, keep a close eye on it. The goal is to let it thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it reduces too much, it can become overly salty and intense.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Creamy Chicken Recipe
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavor and reduce prep time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Use a large skillet to cook the entire dish in one pot, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
Pre-sliced mushrooms: Purchase pre-sliced mushrooms to skip the step of slicing them, saving valuable prep time.
Multi-task: While the sauce is simmering, cook the noodles simultaneously to save time and have the entire meal ready at once.
Organized prep: Chop and measure all ingredients before starting to cook to streamline the process and save time during cooking.
Quick-cooking chicken: Use thinly sliced chicken breast to reduce cooking time and ensure the dish is ready faster.
Efficient assembly: Have all the ingredients and utensils ready before starting to cook to work efficiently and save time during the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
skinless boneless chicken thighs - Substitute with skinless boneless turkey thighs: Turkey thighs have a similar texture and flavor to chicken thighs, making them a great substitute in this recipe.
white mushrooms - Substitute with cremini mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and texture to white mushrooms, making them a suitable replacement in this recipe.
shallot - Substitute with onion: Onions can be used as a substitute for shallots, providing a slightly stronger flavor but still complementing the dish well.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a non-alcoholic substitute for dry white wine, adding depth of flavor to the dish.
chicken stock or low sodium broth - Substitute with vegetable stock or broth: Vegetable stock or broth can be used as a substitute for chicken stock, providing a similar savory flavor to the dish.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, adding richness to the sauce.
grainy mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute for grainy mustard, providing a tangy flavor to the sauce.
tarragon - Substitute with dill: Dill can be used as a substitute for tarragon, providing a similar fresh and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
noodles - Substitute with spaghetti squash: Spaghetti squash can be used as a low-carb alternative to noodles, providing a vegetable-based option for serving the dish.
Presenting Chicken in a Delightful Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
Elevate the plating: Arrange the chicken in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring each piece is placed with precision and care. This will create a visually appealing presentation that showcases the dish's elegance.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a delicate tarragon leaf to add a pop of color against the creamy sauce and golden-brown chicken.
Focus on texture: Consider adding a crispy element, such as a delicate parmesan tuile or a light dusting of toasted breadcrumbs, to provide a textural contrast to the tender chicken and velvety sauce.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing some areas of the plate to remain uncovered, creating a sense of balance and sophistication in the overall presentation.
Attention to detail: Ensure that each component of the dish is meticulously placed, paying close attention to the alignment and arrangement of the chicken, mushrooms, and noodles to showcase precision and culinary expertise.
Garnish with finesse: Add a final touch of finesse by drizzling a subtle swirl of high-quality balsamic glaze around the edge of the plate, elevating the visual appeal and adding a hint of complexity to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
- Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing and searing the chicken and mushrooms.
- Slotted spoon: Used for transferring cooked ingredients while leaving any excess liquid in the pan.
- Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the chicken and preparing the sauce.
- Whisk: Essential for blending the cream, mustard, and other sauce ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure the quantities of various ingredients.
- Cooking pot: Required for boiling the noodles.
- Tongs: Useful for turning and handling the chicken while cooking.
- Serving platter: Used for presenting the finished dish.
- Wine glass: For enjoying the recommended wine pairing.
Preserving and Freezing Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
- Allow the chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Transfer the cooled sauce and chicken to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- For storing in the refrigerator: Place the sealed container in the fridge and consume within 3-4 days.
- For freezing: Place the sealed container or bag in the freezer and store for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed sauce and chicken in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing and reheating, you can thin it out by adding a little chicken broth or heavy cream until the desired consistency is reached.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed before serving.
- Serve the reheated chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce over freshly cooked noodles or your preferred side dish.
How To Reheat Leftover Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
Reheat the chicken and sauce together in a covered skillet or saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is hot and bubbly. This method helps to preserve the moisture in the chicken and allows the flavors of the tarragon and mustard to meld together.
If you prefer a crispier texture for your leftover chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. While the chicken is reheating, warm up the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once the chicken is hot, pour the warm sauce over it and serve immediately.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use your microwave. Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chicken and sauce are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cream sauce to separate or the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have leftover noodles, you can reheat them by placing them in a colander and running hot water over them until they are warm. Alternatively, you can microwave the noodles in a covered dish with a splash of water for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Serve the reheated chicken and sauce over the warm noodles for a delicious and easy meal.
Fascinating Trivia About Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
Tarragon is a popular herb in French cuisine and is known for its distinct anise-like flavor. It adds a unique and aromatic taste to the chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce recipe.
Is Making Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce Budget-Friendly?
This chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of chicken thighs and mushrooms makes it a budget-friendly option. The addition of tarragon and grainy mustard elevates the flavors, making it a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its balance of cost and quality.
Is This Creamy Chicken Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe, while delicious, has some elements that could be considered unhealthy:
- The use of heavy cream and a significant amount of oil adds saturated fat and calories to the dish
- Depending on the sodium content of the chicken stock, the dish may be high in salt
- The recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal
However, there are also some positive aspects:
- Chicken thighs are a good source of protein
- Mushrooms provide fiber and various nutrients
- Tarragon adds flavor without additional calories or fat
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as half-and-half or evaporated milk
- Use less oil when cooking the chicken and mushrooms, or opt for a healthier oil like avocado oil
- Choose a low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the overall salt content
- Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Serve the chicken and sauce over a whole grain option, like quinoa or brown rice, instead of noodles for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the portion size of the chicken and sauce and balance the plate with a larger serving of vegetables
Editor's Take on the Delightful Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce
This chicken in tarragon-mustard cream sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of tarragon and mustard adds a unique and sophisticated twist to the creamy sauce, perfectly complementing the tender chicken and earthy mushrooms. The dish is well-balanced and rich, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner. The addition of buttered noodles as a side is a comforting and classic choice. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for those who appreciate a touch of elegance in their meals.
Enhance Your Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Chicken in Tarragon-Mustard Cream Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The use of tarragon and mustard infuses the dish with a unique and aromatic taste, while the addition of cream provides a rich and indulgent element. The incorporation of chicken stock and white wine further enhances the depth of flavors. The inclusion of mushrooms and shallots adds a delightful earthiness, creating a well-balanced and savory dish. The careful instructions and attention to detail guarantee a successful outcome, making this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delicious and impressive meal.
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