Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce is like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: golden-brown chicken thighs, sizzling in a creamy sauce that smells like heaven and tastes even better. The rich mustard flavor dances with the cream, creating a symphony of deliciousness that you can’t resist.

Now, let’s be honest; I didn’t grow up learning how to cook from an esteemed chef like Ina Garten. My culinary adventures were more about burnt toast and soggy pasta. But one day, I stumbled upon this recipe, and it was love at first bite. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing unexpected guests—because who doesn’t want to feel like a gourmet chef without the fuss?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish boasts simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, making it accessible for all home cooks.
- The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its visual appeal adds elegance to any dinner table, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes.
- Perfect for weeknight meals but fancy enough for special occasions, it’s your new go-to recipe!
Ingredients for Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bone-in Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in thighs for juiciness; they hold moisture better than boneless options.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate the flavor; use freshly ground pepper if possible.
- Olive Oil: A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil helps achieve that crispy skin we all crave.
- Shallots: These little gems provide sweetness and depth; finely chop them for even distribution in the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Go all out with heavy cream for that luscious texture; half-and-half won’t cut it here.
For the Sauce:
- Dijon Mustard: Choose whole-grain Dijon for texture; its tanginess complements the cream beautifully.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor; homemade is best but store-bought works too.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab your favorite baking dish and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels—nobody likes a soggy thigh! Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step is crucial because flavor should never be an afterthought.
Step 3: Sear Those Thighs
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle some olive oil. Once hot, place those seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and sear them until they’re golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. Flip them over and sear for another couple of minutes just to get them nice and cozy.
Step 4: Add Shallots
Remove the chicken from the skillet (don’t worry; they’ll be back) and toss in those finely chopped shallots. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3 minutes—and enjoy the aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the Dijon mustard and cook for another minute before adding the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring this glorious mixture to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—those are packed with flavor!
Step 6: Bake It All Together
Return those beautiful chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up this time, spooning some sauce over them. Transfer everything into your preheated oven and bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C)—about 25-30 minutes.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve with your favorite side dishes—perhaps buttery mashed potatoes or steamed green beans—and watch everyone dive in with smiles wider than their plates!
You Must Know
- This amazing recipe for Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes dinner time a delightful experience.
- The creamy mustard sauce brings a comforting richness that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by searing the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown. While they cook, whip up the creamy mustard sauce in another pan. Then, combine everything and let those flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by swapping out Dijon mustard for whole grain or adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also toss in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness; it should reach 165°F for juicy perfection.
- Let the chicken rest post-cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Pair this dish with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that impresses.
Sometimes I still remember the first time I made Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce. My friends raved about it, and I quietly basked in my newfound culinary glory!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce?
To prepare Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce, gather the following ingredients: bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, Dijon mustard, heavy cream, chicken broth, onions, and fresh herbs like thyme. You will also need olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning. The combination of these simple ingredients creates a rich and flavorful sauce that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. Make sure to use high-quality mustard and fresh herbs for the best results in this delightful dish.
How long does it take to cook Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce?
Cooking Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce takes approximately 45 minutes. Start by searing the chicken thighs for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Afterward, cook them in the oven for another 25-30 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This timing allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that the chicken remains juicy and tender. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
Can I substitute other types of meat in this creamy mustard sauce recipe?
While Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce is specifically designed for chicken thighs, you can experiment with other meats. Substitute chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option; however, remember that they may require less cooking time. Alternatively, pork chops or even turkey thighs can work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure that your chosen meat cooks through while still soaking up that delicious creamy mustard sauce.
What side dishes pair well with this creamy mustard sauce recipe?
Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple green salad or steamed asparagus also works well to balance out the richness of the dish. For a complete meal experience, try pairing it with crusty bread to enjoy every last drop of that creamy goodness.
Conclusion for Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce :
In summary, Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make it an ideal main dish for any occasion. The combination of succulent chicken thighs and rich mustard sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience. With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Enjoy this comforting dish alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal everyone will love!
Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce
Ina Garten’s Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce offers a comforting taste experience, featuring succulent bone-in chicken thighs enveloped in a rich, velvety Dijon mustard sauce. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests, combining gourmet flavors with simple preparation. With just a few easy steps, you can create a delightful meal that will have everyone asking for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup whole-grain Dijon mustard
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Pat chicken thighs dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Sear chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Flip and sear for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the skillet; add shallots and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in Dijon mustard and cook for 1 minute, then add chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer while scraping browned bits from the pan.
- Return chicken to the skillet skin-side up, spoon sauce over it, then transfer to the oven. Bake until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (180g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the sauce. - Substitute Dijon mustard with whole-grain mustard for a textured variation. - Pair with buttery mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.







