If you’re looking for a dish that’s both sophisticated and simple, this Chicken Diane recipe is exactly what you need. With tender chicken breasts coated in a silky, flavorful sauce made from Dijon mustard, and garlic, this dish elevates your weeknight dinners in under 30 minutes. Chicken Diane is the perfect recipe when you want something easy but impressive, and it’s versatile enough to be served with your favorite sides.
Chicken Diane Recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes320
kcalChicken Diane is a flavorful and elegant dish made with tender chicken breasts, coated in a rich sauce of butter, mustard and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
1 small shallot, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced shallot and garlic, and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Deglaze the pan: Add Dijon mustard, chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the chicken: Add the chicken breasts back to the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Make it dairy-free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free butter substitute.
- Rest the chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender when you slice into it.
Tips for the Best Chicken Diane Recipe
- Tenderize the chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before searing. This helps ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, shallots, and parsley elevate the flavors in the sauce, making it more aromatic and vibrant.
- Sear for flavor: Don’t rush the searing process. A good sear locks in moisture and gives the chicken a beautiful golden crust, which is key for a great Chicken Diane recipe.
- Don’t skip the mustard: The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth to the sauce. It’s essential for balancing the richness of the cream and butter.
- Control the heat: Keep a lid handy to smother flames if necessary.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, right after cooking, to fully appreciate the richness and flavors of the sauce.
How to Store Chicken Diane
Chicken Diane can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce smooth. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken tough and dry.
How to Serve Chicken Diane
Chicken Diane pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic option, serve it over buttery mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even with crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the flavorful sauce.
Chicken Diane Variants
- Mushroom Chicken Diane: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the shallots for an earthy twist.
- Lemon Chicken Diane: Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and zest into the sauce for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Spicy Chicken Diane: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Chicken Diane: Use a mix of fresh herbs like thyme, tarragon, or chives for added complexity.
- Vegan Diane Sauce: Use a plant-based butter, vegetable broth, and coconut cream to make a vegan-friendly version of the Diane sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Sear the chicken breasts until golden brown and just cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness). Resting the chicken after cooking also helps lock in the juices.
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and provide a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through.
Chicken Diane pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli also complement this dish perfectly.
This Chicken Diane recipe can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard you use are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
If the sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, let it simmer for a few extra minutes. Alternatively, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce while it simmers.
While Chicken Diane is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on low heat and add freshly cooked chicken.
…and in conclusion
This Chicken Diane recipe offers a quick and satisfying way to elevate your everyday meals. The rich sauce with its tangy mustard, creamy texture, and punch of garlic ensures every bite is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting guests, this recipe will impress without the stress. Serve it with some roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete and elegant meal.
If you like this Chicken dish, we invite you to also try the Chicken and Saffron Rice Recipe!
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