When I first tried Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mustard, I was looking for a dish that felt both hearty and a bit adventurous. I remember the first bite, the creamy mustard sauce clinging to tender chicken, the sharpness of the mustard perfectly balanced by the richness of cream. It was like a comforting hug with a twist. The recipe felt like something I could whip up on a weekday but still serve to guests without feeling rushed. It became one of those go-to meals that never let me down.
If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors that elevate simple ingredients, this recipe will hit the spot. It’s an absolute game changer for anyone who enjoys bold, yet balanced flavors in their meals.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mustard Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mustard is a dish that combines the best of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. His approach is never overly fussy, but always delivers on taste. The recipe uses everyday ingredients, but with clever additions and techniques to bring out the natural flavors. The mustard adds a nice sharpness without overpowering the delicate chicken. The result? A hearty, satisfying meal that works for any occasion.
Here’s Why I Love It
- It’s a one-pan dish. No fussing with multiple pots.
- The mustard sauce is rich and creamy with a little zing.
- The chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are things you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Boneless and skinless work best. Thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner.
- Mustard: You’ll need a mix of Dijon and whole grain mustard for a more complex flavor. Dijon brings sharpness while whole grain adds texture.
- Cream: Heavy cream gives the sauce richness and smoothness. You can use sour cream for a tangier version.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves will infuse the dish with a fragrant aroma.
- Chicken stock: A bit of chicken stock adds depth to the sauce.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley or thyme works great to finish the dish off with some freshness.
- Olive oil and butter: For searing the chicken and making the sauce.
- Lemon: A squeeze at the end brightens the entire dish.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mustard
Here’s where the magic happens. The steps are pretty simple, but every moment counts in developing the flavors. The beauty of this recipe is how quick it is, yet how fancy it can feel.
- Prep the chicken: Season both sides of your chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Heat up a little oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the chicken. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, throw in minced garlic. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the mustard (both Dijon and whole grain) and a little chicken stock. Stir it together.
- Add cream: Pour in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken: Add the chicken back into the pan, spooning some sauce over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with a side of vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
What’s cool about this dish is how each ingredient interacts to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into the science of a few of the key ingredients:
- Mustard: Mustard contains compounds called glucosinolates that give it its sharp, tangy flavor. The two mustards used-Dijon and whole grain-bring different qualities. Dijon provides that smooth, sharp kick, while whole grain mustard offers a bit of texture and subtle heat from the mustard seeds.
- Cream: Cream is a fat-rich liquid, which helps mellow out the acidity and sharpness of the mustard. It adds richness, binding the sauce together. Fats also carry flavor, so the cream amplifies the mustard and garlic.
- Lemon: The acidity from the lemon helps to cut through the richness of the cream, balancing out the flavors. It also brightens the dish, making each bite feel fresher.
Expert Tips
- Sear the chicken properly: Don’t rush the searing process. Golden brown chicken adds a ton of flavor to the sauce.
- Customize the mustard: If you want something spicier, opt for a Dijon-heavy mix. For a more subtle flavor, use more whole grain mustard.
- Don’t skip the stock: Chicken stock adds depth and umami to the sauce. If you don’t have stock, a good-quality broth works in a pinch.
- Rest the chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and tender.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch it up? Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own:
- Spicy twist: Add a bit of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms in the same pan before adding the garlic. They’ll absorb all that mustardy goodness.
- Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower steaks for a plant-based alternative.
- Herb variations: Try fresh tarragon or dill instead of parsley or thyme for a different herbal note.
Final Words
This dish is a complete winner in my book. It’s comforting but still has enough pizzazz to keep your taste buds excited. The tangy mustard sauce pairs beautifully with the rich cream and tender chicken. It’s a simple recipe with layers of flavor that anyone can master.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mustard Recipe?
You’ll need chicken thighs or breasts, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic, and a few fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Mustard For This Recipe?
Yes, you can try whole grain mustard or spicy mustard, but Dijon is the classic choice for a creamy texture.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mustard Recipe?
It usually takes about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.