Slow Cooker Creamy Mustard Chicken

This Slow Cooker Creamy Mustard Chicken is a comforting, flavor-packed weeknight dinner that’s incredibly simple to prepare. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked low and slow in a rich, tangy sauce made with whole grain mustard, Dijon, cream, and herbs. The result? A dish that’s both hearty and elegant—with minimal effort thanks to the slow cooker.

Full Recipe:

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 (plus extra for garnish)

Ingredient Tips:

  • Use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.

  • Add more Dijon or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Directions

  1. Season the Chicken: Generously season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

  2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, then place in the slow cooker.

  3. Build the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken broth and scrape up browned bits.

  4. Add Mustards: Stir in whole grain and Dijon mustard. Pour this mixture over chicken in the slow cooker.

  5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, until chicken is tender.

  6. Finish the Sauce: Whisk heavy cream and sour cream together. Add to slow cooker and stir gently.

  7. Add Herbs: Stir in chopped thyme and cook for another 20–30 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through.

  8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Tips:

  • Add baby potatoes or carrots for a one-pot meal.

  • Try rosemary or tarragon for a flavor twist.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 350 kcal

  • Protein: ~35g

  • Total Fat: ~20g

    • Saturated Fat: ~10g

  • Carbohydrates: ~5g

    • Sugars: ~2g

  • Fiber: ~1g

  • Cholesterol: ~120mg

  • Sodium: ~600–700mg (may vary based on broth and mustard used)

A Rich and Tangy Sauce That Shines

At the heart of this dish is its decadent creamy mustard sauce. The combination of whole grain mustard and Dijon creates layers of flavor—slightly spicy, tangy, and full of depth. The grainy texture adds a rustic touch, while the Dijon brings that smooth, sharp kick that balances out the creaminess of the sauce. Heavy cream and sour cream blend together to give the sauce its silky texture and richness, making it luxurious without being overly heavy. A splash of chicken broth ties everything together with a savory foundation, creating a sauce that begs to be spooned over every bite.

Perfectly Tender Chicken Every Time

The slow cooker is the ideal method for cooking chicken in this recipe. As the chicken simmers slowly in the mustard sauce, it becomes tender and infused with flavor. Browning the chicken first adds depth and a slight golden crust, locking in juices and adding visual appeal. Whether you’re using chicken breasts or swapping in thighs for a richer option, the result is always juicy and perfectly cooked meat that practically falls apart with a fork. This gentle cooking method means no dry or tough chicken—just melt-in-your-mouth goodness in every bite.

A Versatile Recipe That Suits All Tastes

One of the best features of this dish is how easy it is to tailor it to your preferences. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, add more Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Prefer a milder taste? Reduce the mustard slightly and let the cream take the lead. You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce or swap out the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, protein-packed alternative. The base of this dish is strong enough to hold up to creative customizations, making it ideal for picky eaters or adventurous foodies alike.

Fragrant Herbs for a Gourmet Touch

Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley bring a vibrant finish to this rich dish. Thyme infuses the sauce with a subtle earthiness that complements the mustard perfectly, while parsley adds freshness and a pop of green color. If you want to explore other flavor directions, rosemary or tarragon are excellent alternatives that blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce. No matter which herbs you choose, they help balance the richness of the dish and elevate it into something truly special.

A One-Pot Wonder for Busy Days

Slow Cooker Creamy Mustard Chicken isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly convenient. Everything cooks in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more time to relax or focus on other things. If you want to turn this into a complete one-pot meal, add baby potatoes, carrots, or green beans directly into the slow cooker during the final hour of cooking. These veggies soak up the sauce and transform into tender, flavorful sides that pair beautifully with the chicken. It’s an effortless way to create a full meal with minimal dishes and prep.

Easy to Make Ahead and Store

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or planning ahead. You can prepare the sauce base and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. The cooked dish also stores well for up to three days in the refrigerator, making it a great option for leftovers or weekday lunches. The flavors develop even more after a night in the fridge, meaning it may taste even better the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal that feels freshly made.

Pairs Beautifully with Classic Sides

Creamy mustard chicken shines when served with comforting side dishes that soak up every drop of sauce. Mashed potatoes are a natural pairing, offering a smooth, buttery base that complements the tangy creaminess. Fluffy rice or egg noodles also work well, absorbing the sauce and providing a simple yet satisfying canvas. For a lighter option, try it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to contrast the richness of the dish. You can even serve it with warm crusty bread, perfect for dipping into that velvety sauce.

Family-Friendly Yet Elegant

This recipe manages to hit the sweet spot between comforting and elegant. The creamy sauce and juicy chicken make it a familiar and approachable meal for the whole family, while the mustard and herb accents give it a sophisticated flair. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough to serve to guests. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

A Balanced Meal That Satisfies

Despite its rich and creamy texture, this dish is surprisingly balanced in nutrition. Each serving delivers a generous amount of protein with moderate fat and very few carbohydrates. The cream and sour cream provide satisfying fullness, while the herbs and mustard add flavor without the need for extra salt or sugar. If you’re watching your macros or trying to eat more protein, this meal is an excellent fit. It’s hearty without being heavy, flavorful without being fussy, and satisfying without being overly indulgent.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Mustard Chicken is the ultimate answer to busy days, comfort food cravings, and weeknight dinner dilemmas. With tender chicken, a deeply flavorful mustard sauce, and a slow-cooked ease that makes prep a breeze, this recipe hits every mark. It’s versatile, customizable, and elegant enough to serve guests—yet simple enough for anyone to make. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to warm you up or an impressive dish that feels gourmet without the work, this creamy mustard chicken is guaranteed to deliver every time. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.

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