Chicken with Creamy Dijon Sauce and Mashed Potatoes is a simple, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The chicken is tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by a smooth, tangy Dijon mustard sauce that has just the right amount of creaminess. The mashed potatoes are fluffy and buttery, making them the perfect partner to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce.
I love making this dish when I want something easy but a little special. The Dijon sauce only needs a few ingredients, but it gives the chicken such a lovely flavor that everyone seems to enjoy. I find that cooking the chicken until it’s golden brown and then letting it simmer gently in the sauce really brings out all the best tastes.
My favorite way to serve this is with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad to add a bit of crunch and color. It’s a great meal to make on a cozy weekend evening or when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen. Honestly, I always look forward to the leftovers because the flavors only get better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the dish lean and quick to cook. You can swap with thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option that’s less likely to dry out.
Dijon Mustard: This gives the sauce its signature tangy kick. If you prefer milder mustard, try whole grain mustard or yellow mustard, though the flavor will be less sharp.
Heavy Cream: It creates the creamy texture of the sauce. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream, but expect a slightly different richness and consistency.
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are great for creamy mashed potatoes because of their buttery texture. Russets work too and result in fluffier mash.
Butter and Milk: Butter adds richness to the mashed potatoes, while warmed milk helps keep them smooth. For dairy-free, try vegan butter and a plant-based milk like oat or almond.
How Can I Get Tender, Juicy Chicken with a Nice Sear?
Getting a perfect golden crust on the chicken without drying it takes a few tips:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the surface brown nicely.
- Use medium-high heat and add enough oil or butter to coat the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
- Allow the chicken to sear on one side without moving it for 4-5 minutes, then flip carefully.
- Finish cooking the chicken in the sauce for a few minutes to keep it moist and let flavors meld.
What’s the Best Way to Make Smooth and Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Follow these simple steps for silky mashed potatoes:
- Start potatoes in cold, salted water for even cooking.
- Drain them well to avoid watery mash.
- Warm the butter and milk before adding to potatoes so they absorb better.
- Use a potato masher or ricer for smooth texture; avoid a food processor which can make potatoes gluey.
- Season with salt and pepper gradually until flavor is balanced.
How Do I Make a Thick, Flavorful Dijon Cream Sauce?
For a sauce with good body and taste:
- Cook minced garlic briefly to soften but not burn.
- Use chicken broth to deglaze the pan and collect browned bits — this adds great flavor depth.
- Simmer the cream and Dijon mustard gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add lemon juice for a touch of brightness, balancing the richness.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper last as mustard adds some saltiness.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – I use it to cook the potatoes evenly until they’re tender and ready to mash.
- Potato masher or ricer – helps you get smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes with little effort.
- Deep skillet or frying pan – perfect for searing the chicken and making the sauce in the same pan, saving time and cleanup.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – useful for scraping up bits from the skillet and stirring the sauce.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep your ingredients just right for the best flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor, especially if you prefer dark meat.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggie goodness and earthy taste.
- Mix in a splash of white wine or dry sherry while simmering the sauce for more depth.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or grated cheese for added richness and crunch.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil and cook the potatoes evenly.
- Potato masher or ricer – for smooth and fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Large skillet or frying pan – to sear the chicken and prepare the sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce and scraping up browned bits.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately.
- Knife and cutting board – for peeling and chopping potatoes and garlic.
Variations to Try
- Chicken Thighs: Use boneless skinless thighs instead of breasts for extra juicy and flavorful meat.
- Mushroom Sauce: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet before making the sauce for an earthy twist.
- Wine Sauce: Splash in about 1/4 cup white wine or dry sherry when adding the chicken broth for extra depth of flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or tarragon can replace or complement dried thyme for different herbaceous notes.
- Cheesy Mash: Stir in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to your mashed potatoes for a richer taste.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk and plant-based butter substitutes for a dairy-free version.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat dry to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
How Can I Make the Sauce Thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer to reduce or stir in a small slurry of cornstarch and water (start with 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
Can I Make Mashed Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make mashed potatoes a few hours ahead and keep them warm in a covered dish or reheat gently with a splash of warmed milk to refresh the texture.
What’s the Best Side to Serve with This Dish?
Steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly and add a nice balance to the creamy sauce and mashed potatoes.