Crockpot Mustard Chicken with Potatoes

Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Crockpot Mustard Chicken with Potatoes. The tender chicken thighs, infused with the tangy zest of Dijon mustard, pair beautifully with the soft, herb-seasoned baby potatoes. This dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will delight your palate.​ Preparing this meal is a breeze, making it perfect for busy days when you crave a wholesome, home-cooked dinner without the fuss. Simply set your slow cooker and let it work its magic, filling your home with an inviting aroma that promises a delicious feast ahead. Serve this hearty dish to your family and watch it become a cherished favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:​

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 1 teaspoon salt, divided​

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard​

• 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter​

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved​

• 1 tablespoon olive oil​

• 3 cloves garlic, minced​

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper​

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme​

• 1/2 cup chicken broth​

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)​

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)​

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken thighs, ½ teaspoon of salt, and Dijon mustard, ensuring the chicken is well-coated

2. Heat ghee or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes.​

3. Arrange the halved baby potatoes at the bottom of a slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic, black pepper, dried thyme, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine.​

4. Place the browned chicken thighs on top of the potatoes. Pour in the chicken broth.​

5. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 7 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.​

6. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.​

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes​

Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons why Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Here’s why this dish stands out:

• Hands-off Cooking: With a slow cooker, most of the work is done for you. Simply prepare the ingredients, place them in the pot, and let them cook to perfection.
• Rich, Savory Flavors: The combination of Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, and cream creates a deliciously tangy and velvety sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: You can serve this mustard chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or even roasted vegetables, making it easy to customize based on your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the refrigerator and can even be frozen for later, making it an excellent option for batch cooking.
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Made with lean chicken, this meal is high in protein and can be adapted for different dietary preferences.

The Magic of Slow Cooking

Slow cookers are a game-changer in the kitchen, allowing you to prepare meals with minimal effort while still achieving maximum flavor. The process of slow cooking allows the chicken to soak up all the delicious flavors of the mustard sauce while keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender. This method is particularly useful for busy individuals or families who want a warm and hearty meal ready by dinnertime.

One of the best things about this dish is that the slow cooking process melds the flavors together beautifully. The mustards provide a perfect balance of tang and creaminess, while the herbs infuse the dish with depth. By the time the chicken is done, the sauce has thickened slightly, creating a luxurious consistency that coats the meat perfectly.

Key Ingredients That Make a Difference

The success of this dish comes down to a few key ingredients that contribute to its rich and balanced flavor:

• Dijon Mustard: This is the star ingredient of the sauce, giving it a smooth and slightly tangy flavor.
• Whole-Grain Mustard: This adds texture and a more intense mustard kick to the dish.
• Chicken Broth: Provides depth and enhances the overall savoriness of the sauce.
• Garlic and Onion: Essential for building a strong aromatic base.
• Dried Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): These herbs complement the mustard perfectly, adding an earthy aroma.
• Heavy Cream: This brings a luxurious creaminess to the sauce and balances the tanginess of the mustard.

Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken

To achieve the best results, follow these expert tips:

1. Sear the Chicken First: While not required, searing the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker helps develop a deeper flavor and locks in juices.
2. Use High-Quality Mustard: Since mustard is the key flavor component, opt for high-quality Dijon and whole-grain mustards for the best taste.
3. Adjust the Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking or transfer the sauce to a pan and let it simmer to reduce.
4. Don’t Overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so check for doneness around the 4-hour mark when cooking on low.
5. Garnish for Freshness: Adding freshly chopped parsley at the end enhances the color and freshness of the dish.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides that help balance its richness. Here are some great options:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce from the mustard chicken complements fluffy mashed potatoes perfectly.
• Rice: A simple side of white or brown rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy crunch to the meal.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, rustic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful mustard sauce.
• Pasta: Try serving the chicken over egg noodles or fettuccine for a heartier meal.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers, Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken is easy to store and reheat:

• Refrigeration: Store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also use the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is incredibly flexible and can be adapted based on dietary needs and personal preferences:

• Make It Dairy-Free: Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.
• Use Chicken Thighs: Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
• Add Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for additional texture and nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker Mustard Chicken is a delightful, creamy, and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The tangy and creamy mustard sauce, combined with tender, slow-cooked chicken, makes for an irresistible meal that everyone will love.

By following the tips and suggestions in this guide, you can easily customize the dish to suit your preferences. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables, this meal is a comforting and satisfying option that will quickly become a favorite in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal with the ease of slow cooking!