As the chill of the season sets in, the yearning for a comforting and hearty meal becomes irresistible. French cuisine, renowned for its rich and creamy delights, offers the perfect remedy, especially when simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. I'm thrilled to share a cherished recipe that warms the soul, the Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken. This culinary gem is deeply rooted in the traditions of French gastronomy, marrying the robust flavors of mustard with succulent chicken. It's a dish that embodies the essence of home cooking, yet it's straightforward enough to become a staple on your weeknight dinner menu. Whether you're aiming to dazzle your guests or simply wish to envelop your loved ones in a comforting culinary embrace, this recipe promises to deliver.
The Slow Cooker Creamy French Mustard Chicken is versatile, pairing beautifully with an array of accompaniments. Nestle it atop a mound of pillowy mashed potatoes or twirl it with al dente pasta to capture every drop of the sumptuous sauce. For a lighter ensemble, a crisp green salad or tender steamed green beans offer a refreshing counterpoint. And let's not overlook the essential role of a crusty loaf of bread, ready to mop up the remaining traces of the luscious sauce.
Recipe:
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (additional for garnish)
Directions:
1. Generously season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Over medium heat, warm the olive oil in a large skillet and sear the chicken breasts until golden, approximately 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until aromatic, roughly 1 minute. Deglaze with chicken broth, ensuring to dislodge any flavorful bits from the pan.
4. Blend in the whole grain and Dijon mustards, then cascade the mixture over the chicken in the slow cooker.
5. Secure the lid and cook on a low setting for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fork-tender.
6. Nearing the end of the cooking time, amalgamate the heavy cream and sour cream in a bowl, then introduce to the slow cooker, stirring to integrate.
7. Incorporate the chopped thyme and continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
8. Present the chicken garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Enjoy this exquisite dish that's sure to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing the elegance of French dining to your table with the ease of a slow cooker.