Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Pink salt, to taste
- Cracked black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup chicken bone broth
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (or whole grain mustard)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (can substitute with 2 tsp dried thyme)
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry thoroughly using a paper towel. Season generously on both sides with pink salt and cracked black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet using tongs and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté the aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to release its aroma without burning.
- Deglaze and reduce: Pour in the chicken bone broth to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom, which adds deep flavor. Let the liquid simmer and reduce for about 3 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, and chopped thyme leaves. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, tangy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce carefully and add more salt and cracked black pepper if needed to balance the flavors.
- Reheat chicken: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to warm the chicken through and allow it to soak up the sauce flavors.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and spoon the mustard sauce over the top. Garnish generously with freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Use bone broth instead of regular broth for richer flavor.
- Dijon mustard provides a creamy tang; whole grain mustard can add texture and a milder flavor.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when browning chicken to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Fresh thyme imparts the best flavor, but dried thyme works well in a pinch.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt (added off heat to prevent curdling).
- This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-inspired