Delicious Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce Recipe You’ll Love

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something truly enchanting about a dinner that fills your home with aromas of garlic and wine, transforming a casual evening into a culinary delight. When I first tried Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce, I was taken aback by how simple ingredients could create such rich, satisfying flavor. This dish marries juicy chicken thighs with the creamy tang of Dijon mustard and a hint of white wine, enveloping each piece in a sauce that s both indulgent and comforting.

Perfect for those busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining guests, this recipe strikes the right balance between effortless and elegant. Imagine serving it to family, the warm, inviting fragrance wafting through your kitchen, as everyone gathers around the table, eager to dig in. If you re looking for a way to break free from fast food monotony, this dish might just be your new go-to, bringing a taste of French bistro dining right into your home. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why Is Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The creamy Dijon sauce combined with white wine creates a flavor explosion that s hard to resist.

Quick Cooking: With minimal prep and one-pan cooking, this dish saves you time without sacrificing taste.

Impressive Presentation: Serve it straight from the oven for an eye-catching centerpiece that will wow your guests!

Versatile Pairing: It shines alongside mashed potatoes or fresh salad, making it a flexible addition to your meal rotation.

Crowd-Pleaser: Enjoyed by family and friends alike, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings.

Transform your regular dinner into a memorable experience with this delightful recipe! For more comforting dinners, check out my Hearty Chicken Recipes.

Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce Ingredients

For the Chicken
Olive Oil Essential for sautéing the chicken and adding a depth of flavor; you can substitute with butter for a richer taste.
Chicken Thighs The star ingredient; skin-on and bone-in thighs retain moisture better, but skinless, boneless thighs or breasts can be used for leaner options.

For the Sauce
Italian Seasoning Perfectly enhances the chicken s flavor; no direct substitution is needed.
Salt and Pepper Crucial basic seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Onion Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce base; shallots are a milder alternative if you prefer.
Garlic Offers aromatic flavor; opt for fresh minced garlic for the best results.
Thyme Infuses earthy notes; dried thyme can be used as a substitution (1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh).
Flour Thicken the sauce; for a gluten-free option, consider using rice flour.
White Wine Brings acidity and richness to the sauce; choose a dry wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay for the best results.
Chicken Stock Adds extra depth; vegetable broth can be a suitable substitute.
Heavy Cream Provides a luscious, creamy texture to the sauce; half-and-half is a lighter alternative, though it will change the final texture.
Dijon Mustard Imparts the dish s characteristic tang; while you can use whole grain mustard for a twist, it s best left as is to achieve that true flavor.
Additional Salt Enhances all the flavors in the dish; don t forget to taste and adjust as needed.

Embrace the charm of Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce and let your kitchen become a cozy French bistro!

How to Make Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). This is essential to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly in the oven.

2. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté skin-side down until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes; set the chicken aside.

3. Prepare Sauce Base: In the same skillet, add diced onion, minced garlic, and thyme. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is tender and fragrant, enhancing your sauce s flavor.

4. Make Sauce: Push the onions to the side, then whisk in the flour for thickening. Gradually add the white wine, stirring in the chicken stock and cream. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring until thickened. Finally, add Dijon mustard and mix well.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, ensuring it s well-coated in that luscious mustard sauce you just created.

6. Bake: Place the skillet in your preheated oven, uncovered. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C).

7. Serve: Pair this delightful dish with mashed potatoes, asparagus, or your choice of roasted vegetables. Enjoy the company of your loved ones gathered around the table!

Optional: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving for a beautiful garnish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delectable dish with sides that bring harmony to your meal.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery delights absorb the luscious sauce beautifully, providing a comforting and satisfying texture to every bite.

• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The earthy, slightly crisp asparagus brings a fresh crunch that balances the rich flavors of the chicken, making it a perfect companion.

• Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant, fluffy rice with herbs can soak up the sauce while adding a light and airy element to the meal, ensuring you enjoy every morsel.

• Crisp Green Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, cleansing your palate between bites of the creamy chicken.

• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Roasted carrots or zucchini provide a sweet note that complements the savory sauce, adding color and nutrition to your plate.

• A Chilled Glass of Chardonnay: The crisp acidity of Chardonnay enhances the dish beautifully and ties in elegantly with the white wine used in cooking.

Let these suggestions inspire your next family dinner or special occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the sauce (without adding the cream or mustard) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the chicken and create the sauce, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you re ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard before returning the chicken to the pan. This step ensures that the sauce maintains its creamy texture and rich flavor, giving you restaurant-quality results with minimal effort on a hectic night!

Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful swaps and twists to make the dish your own and tantalize your taste buds.

• Herb Infusion: Swap thyme with rosemary for a fragrant twist, or sprinkle in some fresh parsley for vibrant flavor!

• Heat Factor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a delightful kick that complements the creaminess beautifully.

• Creamy Dream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream; the sauce will be less rich but still flavorful!

• Mushroom Magic: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms during sauce preparations for an earthy depth that elevates the dish to new heights.

• Veggie Boost: Incorporate chopped spinach or kale into the sauce to add nutrition and a pop of color, making it even more wholesome.

• Mustard Variations: Try a whole grain mustard for added texture, or use honey mustard for a sweet twist that balances with the savory elements.

• Wine Choice: Experiment using a dry sherry instead of white wine for a unique flavor dimension that will surprise everyone at the table.

• Nutty Flavor: Stir in a handful of toasted walnuts just before serving for an unexpected crunch that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.

Get creative and let these variations inspire you as you whip up your Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce

Fridge: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and moisture.

Freezer: You can freeze the Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce for up to 3 months; just ensure it s in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep the sauce creamy and delicious.

Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers to prolong freshness and flavor retention of your delectable chicken thighs in mustard wine sauce.

Expert Tips for Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce

• Prevent Clumping: Use a sifter when incorporating flour into the sauce to avoid any unwanted lumps, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.

• Thick Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, gradually add more flour while stirring to achieve your desired consistency.

• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Invest in a meat thermometer. Check for an internal temperature of 165 °F (74 °C) to guarantee your chicken thighs in mustard wine sauce are cooked perfectly.

• Flavor Boost: For more depth, consider adding a splash of extra white wine or a pinch of additional seasonings towards the end of cooking.

• Fresh Herbs: Experiment with substituting thyme for rosemary, or consider adding fresh parsley as a vibrant garnish to elevate your dish.

Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right chicken thighs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and juiciness, look for skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs. They tend to retain moisture better during cooking. If you prefer a leaner option, feel free to opt for skinless, boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but keep in mind the texture might differ; they may not be as tender.

What s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store any leftover Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep that creamy sauce from drying out.

Can I freeze Chicken Thighs in Mustard Wine Sauce?
Certainly! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Just allow it to cool completely, then place it in a tightly sealed freezer bag or airtight container. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop for best results.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
Very! If your sauce ends up too thin, don t worry. Gradually whisk in a little more flour, about a teaspoon at a time, while stirring until you achieve the desired thickness. If the sauce is already warm, it should thicken nicely without clumping just take your time!

Are there any dietary concerns with this dish?
Of course! Keep in mind that Dijon mustard does contain mustard seeds, which some people may be allergic to. Additionally, if you re serving this to pets, avoid giving them any parts of the dish, as garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens if you re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions.