Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with a bit of smoky charm, this Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe is absolutely going to delight your taste buds. It’s all about tender chicken thighs soaked in a vibrant Dijon mustard marinade, seared with crispy bacon, and finished in a luscious, creamy pan sauce that pulls everything together beautifully. Every bite bursts with a perfect balance of tanginess, smoky goodness, and herbal warmth from fresh thyme—this recipe turns ordinary chicken night into something truly special and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe starts with a handful of simple ingredients that pack a powerful punch. Each one plays an essential role in creating a dish that’s rich in flavor, texture, and color, from the creamy Dijon mustard to the crispy bacon and fresh thyme that brightens it all up.

• ¾ cup Dijon mustard (divided): This is the heart of the flavor, providing tangy sharpness that complements the richness of the chicken and bacon.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that enhances the bacon’s natural smokiness.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for soaking up the mustard marinade. You can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut.
• 6 slices thick cut bacon (diced): Crisps up to add irresistible savory crunch in every bite.
• 1 cup dry white wine: I love using Sauvignon Blanc here, which adds brightness and deglazes the pan, collecting all those delicious browned bits.
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard: Adds a wonderful texture and slightly different mustard flavor that layers beautifully with the Dijon.
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream: Brings a silky smooth finish to the sauce, balancing the tangy and smoky elements.
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme: Infuses herbal freshness and aroma that lift the entire dish.

How to Make Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mustard Marinade

Start by mixing ½ cup of the Dijon mustard with smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a shallow bowl. This simple combination gives the chicken an irresistible tangy and smoky flavor base.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Generously coat each chicken thigh in the prepared mustard mixture, making sure to get into every nook and fold for maximum flavor infusion. This step is key to ensure each piece is bursting with the marinade’s punch.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pop the coated chicken into two large ziplock bags and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. While you can skip the marination and jump straight to cooking, allowing it to sit lets those flavors really soak deep into the chicken for a tastier dish.

Step 4: Bring Chicken to Room Temperature

Before cooking, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature. This helps it cook more evenly and stay tender throughout.

Step 5: Cook the Bacon

In a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, cook the diced bacon until it is crispy and golden. Stir frequently for even cooking. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the flavorful bacon grease in the skillet for the next step.

Step 6: Brown the Chicken

Using the bacon grease, brown the chicken thighs in the skillet for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage; the goal is to develop a nice caramelized crust that locks in flavor and moisture.

Step 7: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the dry white wine and use a wooden spatula to scrape up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. These bits are pure flavor gold, creating a wonderful foundation for the sauce.

Step 8: Make the Creamy Mustard Sauce

Whisk in the remaining Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, and heavy cream. Return the chicken and bacon to the pan, then tuck in the fresh thyme sprigs. This step builds a rich, tangy sauce that beautifully coats every piece of chicken.

Step 9: Simmer to Finish

Reduce the heat to low and let everything cook gently for 15 to 20 minutes. The chicken will finish cooking in the luscious sauce while it reduces to your desired thickness. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to marry perfectly and the sauce to develop a silky texture.

How to Serve Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra thyme leaves on top brightens the dish visually and adds a welcome fresh herbal note that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

Serve this Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple green salad. The creamy sauce is excellent for spooning over rice or buttered noodles as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic look, serve the chicken straight from the skillet at the table with a crusty artisan bread to soak up the sauce. Alternatively, plate the chicken beautifully over a bed of polenta or quinoa for an elegant touch. A drizzle of extra mustard sauce and a sprig of thyme elevate the presentation even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Mustard Chicken with Bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen, making the next day’s meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well, so you can cook a batch ahead and enjoy it later. Wrap individual portions tightly or use freezer-safe containers, storing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, stir in a splash of cream or water to loosen it back up while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful with this recipe. If using breasts, watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out.

What type of mustard is best for this recipe?

Dijon mustard is preferred for its smooth texture and tangy flavor, which perfectly complements the richness of the bacon and cream. Whole-grain mustard adds wonderful texture and complexity when used in the sauce.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is highly recommended as it infuses the chicken with flavor and helps tenderize it. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and still have a tasty dish, though slightly less flavorful.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The recipe as written is gluten-free, assuming your mustard and bacon do not contain any gluten additives. Always check labels to be sure.

What wine can I substitute for cooking?

If you don’t have dry white wine on hand, chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar can work as alternatives to provide acidity and flavor in the sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Mustard Chicken with Bacon Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both cozy and sophisticated, perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. The combination of tangy mustard, smoky bacon, and creamy sauce creates a comforting meal you’ll want to make again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and share in the joy of turning simple ingredients into something so special!

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