Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

This Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} is a delightful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs with a luscious, dairy-free mustard sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out for its simple preparation and rich flavors. The creamy texture of the sauce complements the chicken beautifully, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without compromising their dietary goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 28 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy mustard sauce elevates the dish with a tangy and savory flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Pairings: Serve it over cauliflower rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or even with baked potatoes for a complete meal.
• Diet-Friendly: It’s suitable for those following paleo, Whole30, and keto diets without sacrificing taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This chicken can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for easy reheating throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this tempting creamy mustard chicken, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows even cooking of the chicken and provides enough room for creating the flavorful sauce.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing onions and mincing garlic, enhancing both safety and efficiency in your prep work.

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Ingredients

This creamy mustard chicken is made with flavorful boneless chicken thighs, garlic, onions, and a creamy, super tasty dairy-free sauce. It’s paleo, Whole30 and keto friendly, super simple and fast to prepare!

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons ghee
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup chicken stock (or broth)
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or whole grain)
• 1/4 cup coconut cream (unsweetened)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or poultry seasoning blend)
• Parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken all over with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

Lower the heat to medium and add ghee to the skillet. Cook sliced onions for about 5-6 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Pour in the chicken stock to deglaze the skillet; stir to remove any browned bits from the bottom. Let simmer for about 3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in Dijon mustard, coconut cream, fresh lemon juice, and thyme or poultry seasoning.

Step 4: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Allow it to cook in the sauce for about one minute. Taste your sauce; add more sea salt or black pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy mustard chicken over cauliflower rice or alongside roasted veggies and potatoes!

How to Serve Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Creamy mustard chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you want a light or hearty meal, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.

Over Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb option that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and nutrients to your plate while complementing the rich flavors of the chicken.

On a Bed of Spinach

• Serving creamy mustard chicken on fresh spinach adds a nutritious crunch. The warmth of the chicken slightly wilts the leaves for a delightful texture.

Accompanied by Mashed Sweet Potatoes

• Creamy mashed sweet potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the mustard flavor with their natural sweetness.

With a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad with your favorite vegetables can add freshness and brightness to your meal, cutting through the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

To ensure your creamy mustard chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using high-quality boneless thighs results in juicier meat and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Sear Properly: Ensure your skillet is hot enough when cooking the chicken. This helps achieve a golden-brown crust while keeping it moist inside.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your sauce before serving. Feel free to tweak salt and pepper levels according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh thyme or parsley as a garnish elevates both presentation and taste, adding a fragrant touch.
• Experiment with Mustard: Try different types of mustard such as whole grain or spicy varieties to discover new flavor profiles that suit your palate.
• Pair Wisely: Choose sides that balance richness. Light vegetables or salads are great complements to this creamy dish.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Pairing side dishes with creamy mustard chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
   A creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes that blends garlic for extra flavor without the carbs.

2. Zucchini Noodles
   Spiralized zucchini makes for a light and refreshing base that complements the richness of the chicken.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor and crunchy texture that pairs nicely with creamy dishes.

4. Butternut Squash Fries
   These sweet and savory oven-baked fries make an excellent side that adds color and nutrition to your plate.

5. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli offers bright color and crunch while being easy to prepare alongside your main dish.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A protein-packed salad mixed with diced vegetables provides hearty nutrition while balancing flavors with its slight nuttiness.

7. Cucumber Tomato Salad
   Fresh cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in olive oil create a refreshing contrast against the creamy sauce of the chicken.

8. Riced Broccoli Pilaf
   This healthy alternative combines riced broccoli with herbs for added taste and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Mustard Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly before cooking can result in bland flavors. Make sure to use sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder generously.

• Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too many chicken thighs at once can lower the heat and prevent browning. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that golden crust.

• Ignoring the sauce: Failing to taste and adjust the sauce before serving may lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always sample your sauce and add more salt or pepper as needed.

• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken stock can impact the overall taste of your dish. Opt for a high-quality or homemade stock for better results.

• Skipping garnishes: Neglecting to garnish with fresh parsley can make your dish look less appealing. A simple sprinkle of parsley elevates presentation and adds freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Creamy Mustard Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

• Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of stock if necessary to avoid drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs; however, be mindful that they may dry out faster during cooking.

What side dishes pair well with Creamy Mustard Chicken?

This dish goes wonderfully with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Creamy Mustard Chicken stores well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

How do I customize the flavor of this creamy mustard chicken?

Feel free to experiment by adding spices like paprika or herbs like rosemary. You could also switch out Dijon mustard for whole grain or spicy mustard based on your preference.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free thanks to coconut cream. If you desire extra creaminess, consider adding more coconut cream or using cashew cream as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Mustard Chicken {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} is not only quick and easy but also rich in flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to pair it with various sides or customize it with herbs and spices. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and discover how satisfying healthy meals can be!