The Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone craving a quick, flavorful dinner that feels both comforting and a little special. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken pieces sautéed to perfection, swathed in a luscious, tangy mustard sauce that’s velvety and smooth thanks to a clever mix of coconut aminos and arrowroot flour. With touches of spinach for a pop of color and nutrition, plus a hint of balsamic vinegar to brighten the sauce, it’s a beautifully balanced meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or impressing guests on a cozy evening, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients is the key to the success of this Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe. Each one plays a role in building layers of flavor, bringing the perfect texture, or adding that fresh, vibrant finish that makes this dish sing.
- Olive or avocado oil: Offers a healthy fat base that helps beautifully brown the chicken without overpowering its flavor.
- Chicken breasts (or thighs): Choosing boneless, skinless pieces ensures quick cooking and tender bites ready to soak up the sauce.
- Salt: Enhances every flavor and balances the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Chili powder: Adds a subtle warmth and depth without heat that overpowers.
- Ground mustard: Boosts the mustard flavor layer, complementing the Dijon mustard used later.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlic aroma that lifts the savory profile.
- Dried parsley: Brings herbal freshness that brightens the dish even before the fresh garnish.
- Fresh baby spinach: Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and a tender leafy texture to balance the creaminess.
- Coconut aminos: A slightly sweet, soy-free alternative that deepens umami and keeps the sauce light and glossy.
- Water: Helps create the sauce, keeping it silky without heaviness.
- Dijon mustard: The star of the sauce, delivering that creamy, tangy punch central to the recipe.
- Balsamic vinegar: Adds mild acidity and subtle sweetness to brighten everything up.
- Arrowroot flour: A fantastic thickening agent that yields a smooth texture without clumping.
- Cold water: Used to make a slurry with arrowroot flour for perfect sauce consistency.
- Sesame seeds: Perfect for a toasty crunch and visual appeal as a finishing touch.
- Fresh chopped parsley: The final sprinkle that adds freshness and a pop of green color.
How to Make Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces for quick, even cooking. Season the pieces with salt, chili powder, ground mustard, garlic powder, and dried parsley. This dry rub builds a fragrant base that sets the tone for the entire dish. Get your skillet heated with the olive or avocado oil over medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear right away.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Allow them to brown without stirring too much to develop a golden crust—this step locks in moisture and intensifies flavor. Cook for about 5 minutes, flipping as needed to ensure all sides are nicely seared. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce
In the same skillet, toss in the fresh baby spinach, letting it wilt slightly in the remaining oil and chicken drippings. Then pour in the coconut aminos and water, scraping up the browned bits stuck to the pan to incorporate that flavor into your sauce. Stir in the Dijon mustard and balsamic vinegar, then season with a pinch of salt. Whisk together arrowroot flour and cold water separately until smooth, then slowly add this slurry into the skillet while stirring. The sauce will thicken into a luscious, creamy texture that perfectly coats the spinach and will eventually hug the chicken pieces.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the seared chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce and spinach. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to finish cooking through and soak up the flavors. This gentle simmer ensures the meat stays tender and juicy while melding with the creamy mustard sauce beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish for a delightful crunch and nutty touch. Then add a generous handful of fresh chopped parsley to introduce a lively herbal note and gorgeous color contrast. These simple garnishes elevate the dish in both flavor and appearance, making it feel special enough for any occasion.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe shines alongside a variety of sides. Whether you prefer fluffy steamed rice to soak up every last drop of sauce, buttery mashed potatoes for a homey touch, or roasted seasonal vegetables for extra nutrients and texture, the mellow mustard flavor pairs wonderfully with many options. Even a crisp green salad offers a refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Serve this chicken atop a bed of creamy polenta or cauliflower mash for an elegant twist. Alternatively, try spooning it over buttered egg noodles or whole grain couscous to create a meal that’s both comforting and restaurant-worthy. Adding a drizzle of extra Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can also brighten the flavors and personalize the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches. Keep the sauce and chicken together to retain moistness and flavor. Refrigerating promptly ensures the best taste and safety.
Freezing
If you want to save this recipe for longer, freezing works well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to keep track. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat the creamy mustard chicken gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave using short intervals. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming and to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, stir in a splash of water or broth to restore its silky texture. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender and the sauce velvety.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in this Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe. They tend to be more flavorful and stay juicy even if slightly overcooked, making the dish even richer.
What if I don’t have coconut aminos?
Coconut aminos provide a mild sweetness and umami without soy, but you can substitute with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. Just adjust the salt accordingly, since these alternatives tend to be saltier.
Is arrowroot flour necessary? Can I use cornstarch?
Arrowroot flour is great for creating a clear, smooth sauce, but cornstarch can be used as a substitute. Use the same amount and mix with cold water before adding, just watch the sauce’s thickness as it can thicken faster.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe is naturally dairy-free as it relies on coconut aminos and arrowroot for creaminess, so it’s perfect for those avoiding dairy.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
The total prep and cooking time is just about 15 minutes, making it excellent for busy weeknights when you want a quick but impressive meal on the table.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a simple, satisfying recipe that delivers flavor and comfort with minimal fuss, the Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe is a must-try. It’s one of those dishes that feels both homey and a bit special, perfect for everyday dinners or casual entertaining. I’m confident once you make it, it will become a favorite to return to again and again. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of this creamy, tangy skillet delight!
Print
Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Mustard Skillet Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken pieces are sautéed and simmered in a creamy, tangy mustard sauce enriched with coconut aminos and spinach, creating a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s both gluten-free and dairy-free. Garnished with sesame seeds and fresh parsley, it offers a delightful blend of savory and slightly tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive or avocado oil
- 1½ pounds chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces (can use chicken thighs if preferred)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Vegetables and Sauce
- 5 ounces fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup coconut aminos
- ½ cup water
- 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Thickening and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry and season them evenly with ½ teaspoon salt, chili powder, ground mustard, garlic powder, and dried parsley. This ensures the chicken is flavorful and well-seasoned before cooking.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive or avocado oil over medium-high heat. The oil needs to be hot enough to sear the chicken properly without burning.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on all sides.
- Add spinach and liquids: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Then pour in ½ cup coconut aminos and ½ cup water, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Make the mustard sauce: Stir in 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, and ¼ teaspoon salt into the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes so flavors meld together.
- Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon arrowroot flour and 1 tablespoon cold water until smooth. Slowly pour this slurry into the skillet, stirring constantly, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot, ideally with your favorite side dishes like rice or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
- Coconut aminos provide a soy-free, gluten-free soy sauce alternative; tamari can be used if preferred.
- Arrowroot flour works as a natural thickener; cornstarch can be used as an alternative.
- For a dairy-free option, avoid adding any cream or butter (none are used in this recipe).
- Adjust chili powder to your spice preference or omit for milder flavor.
- The recipe is naturally gluten-free and suitable for Paleo diets due to the use of whole ingredients.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
