Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
Add the white wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the liquid simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream, mixing well to create a smooth sauce. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
Add the Cheese:
Once the sauce has thickened, add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Finish the Dish:
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let it simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to reheat the chicken and allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This dish is perfect alongside a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes. It also works well with a fresh salad or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the skillet with a little splash of cream or broth to keep it moist.
Freezing: You can freeze the sauce and chicken separately for up to a month. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a skillet over low heat.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version: Swap out the chicken for a firm, plant-based protein like tofu or seitan. For a unique twist, use mushrooms, which soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
For Extra Flavor: Try adding a splash of brandy or cognac to the sauce for a richer depth of flavor. You can also add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spice, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers. This will add an unexpected yet delightful kick to the dish.
FAQ:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe. They’re juicier and will absorb the sauce more deeply, making the dish even more flavorful.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based cream and use dairy-free cheese to make this recipe dairy-free. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
What if I don’t have white wine? If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth is a great alternative. It adds a nice depth of flavor without the acidity of wine.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the sauce to make the dish even more hearty and colorful.
Conclusion:
This recipe, introduced to me by my French friend, has become a favorite in my kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for special occasions. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and delightful flavors, it’s the perfect dish to impress your friends and family. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will be a hit at your table, just as it has been at mine!
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