Mustard-Tarragon Chicken Sauté

A Weeknight Wonder: Mustard-Tarragon Chicken Sauté

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and endless to-do lists, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I love recipes that are both quick and impressive, and this Mustard-Tarragon Chicken Sauté is a perfect example. It’s elegant enough for a special occasion, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, ready in under 15 minutes!

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The combination of creamy Dijon mustard and fragrant tarragon creates a rich and savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken breasts. The shallots add a subtle sweetness, and a touch of vermouth adds depth. I often serve this with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and some steamed baby peas for a complete and balanced meal. But, if I'm really pressed for time, a simple green salad does the trick just as well.

This recipe is my go-to when I need a quick and satisfying dinner that doesn't compromise on taste or presentation. The chicken cooks beautifully in the skillet, becoming tender and juicy, and the sauce thickens to a perfect consistency. It's a recipe that has become a staple in our family, and I know it will quickly become a favorite in yours as well. The clean-up is minimal, too, which is a huge bonus after a long day!

Beyond the Weeknight:

While this recipe is a fantastic weeknight solution, it's also versatile enough to impress guests. Imagine serving this elegant chicken sauté at a dinner party, paired with a crisp white wine and a simple, yet elegant side dish. It's a meal that feels special without requiring hours of preparation. The beautiful presentation makes it feel much fancier than it actually is, which is another reason I love it so much. And don't forget that raspberry tart to complete the meal – the perfect sweet ending to a sophisticated, yet easy, dinner.

Tips and Variations:

While the recipe is simple as is, there are a few things you can do to customize it to your taste and preferences. For example:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
• Herbs galore: Experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, in place of or in addition to the tarragon.
• Wine swap: If you don't have vermouth on hand, you can substitute dry white wine.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or pasta.

This Mustard-Tarragon Chicken Sauté is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the fact that delicious, healthy, and impressive meals don't have to be time-consuming. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy dinner that will impress, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!

Serving Suggestion: Don't forget to garnish with fresh tarragon sprigs before serving for an extra touch of elegance!

Step-by-step

• Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken breasts and sauté until cooked through, about 5 minutes per side.
• Transfer chicken to platter. Tent with aluminum foil to keep warm.
• Add shallots to same skillet and sauté 1 minute.
• Add vermouth and mustard and bring to simmer.
• Add cream and 1 1/2 tablespoons tarragon.
• Simmer until slightly thickened, stirring often, about 3 minutes.
• Return chicken and any accumulated juices to skillet.
• Simmer until chicken is heated through, about 1 minute.
• Transfer chicken and sauce to platter.
• Sprinkle with remaining 1 tablespoon tarragon and serve.