This Creamy French Style Chicken is a delightful dish with tender chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that feels fancy but is easy to make!
I love how the flavors come together so nicely, especially with some crusty bread on the side to soak up that yummy sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to have extra! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this dish as they stay juicy. If you’re short on time, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used but might need less cooking time.
Mushrooms: I recommend cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor, but white mushrooms work just as well. For a twist, you could try shiitake or portobello mushrooms!
White Wine: It adds great depth to the sauce. If you don’t want to use wine, chicken broth is a great substitute. You can also try apple cider vinegar for a similar acidity.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative can be used instead. Just keep in mind it won’t be quite as thick!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Is Tender and Juicy?
To keep chicken thighs tender, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking them. Start by searing them skin-side down, which crisps the skin and locks in moisture. Once the chicken is added back to the pan in the sauce, simmer gently.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C).
- Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking so it retains juices.
This will give you deliciously moist and flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy French Style Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus an additional 20 minutes for simmering. In total, you should plan for about 50 minutes to bring this creamy dish to your table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin become crispy when cooked. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. After cooking, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Lower the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is softened, which should take about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook them for around 5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown. This step adds a wonderful flavor to the sauce.
5. Deglaze the Pan:
Carefully pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any browned bits. These bits add amazing flavor to your sauce. Let the wine reduce by half for about 3-4 minutes. If you’re not using wine, you can skip this step and move on.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now add the chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme leaves to the pan. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Finish Cooking the Chicken:
Return the chicken thighs back to the pan, skin-side up. Spoon some of that delicious sauce and mushrooms over the chicken. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the sauce has thickened.
8. Adjust Seasoning:
Give the sauce a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. It should be rich and flavorful!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley and thyme sprigs over the top for a pop of color and freshness. This creamy French-style chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce.
Enjoy your delightful meal! Bon appétit! 😊
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used! Just be sure to reduce the cooking time slightly, as they’ll cook faster than bone-in thighs. Aim for about 10-15 minutes of simmering, checking for doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some fresh spinach, peas, or even diced carrots. Just make sure to add them when you add the mushrooms to give them enough time to cook through!