Slow Cooker French Wine and Mustard Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends the tang of Dijon mustard, the richness of cream, and the depth of white wine into a sauce that coats the chicken beautifully. Slow cooking ensures the chicken is juicy and tender, while fresh herbs and kale add balance and freshness. It’s a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that feels special, or for entertaining guests with minimal hands-on cooking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
• 1/3 cup heavy cream or canned full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons grainy Dijon mustard
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• 2 pounds boneless chicken breasts, skin on or off
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped sage
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 bunch kale, chopped
• Mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for serving

Directions

1. In a slow cooker, combine wine, heavy cream (or coconut milk), Dijon mustard, grainy mustard, shallots, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add thyme and sage, then cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
4. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in butter, parmesan, and kale. Allow the kale to wilt into the sauce.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve chicken and sauce over mashed potatoes or rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
Total time: about 4 hours 15 minutes (on low) or 2 hours 15 minutes (on high)

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free variation.
• Add mushrooms or carrots for extra vegetables.
• Swap parmesan for Gruyère or Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy finish.
• Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce instead of potatoes or rice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. For freezing, place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and often stay juicier than chicken breasts.

Do I have to sear the chicken before slow cooking?

Searing adds flavor and color, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.

What wine works best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for balance and flavor.

Can I make this without wine?

Yes, substitute with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce cook uncovered for 15 minutes after removing the chicken, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use coconut milk instead of cream and omit the parmesan, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat.

What sides pair best?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles all work wonderfully. A green salad or roasted veggies also make great additions.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer the ingredients in a Dutch oven over low heat for 45–60 minutes, until the chicken is tender.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely mushrooms, carrots, or spinach would all complement the flavors well.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker French Wine and Mustard Chicken is a rich, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With tender chicken, a creamy mustard-wine sauce, and a touch of fresh herbs, it’s perfect for both casual dinners and elegant gatherings. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a truly satisfying dish that’s sure to impress.

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