How to Make Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce

If you are looking for a dish that combines elegance with comforting flavors, this Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce recipe is an absolute winner. Tender chicken wrapped in buttery, flaky puff pastry and paired with a luscious mustard cream sauce makes for a meal that is both impressive and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something special, this recipe promises a delicious balance of textures and flavors that will delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortlessly Elegant: This dish looks like it took hours but comes together quickly, perfect for impressing guests without stress.
• Perfect Flavor Pairing: The tangy mustard cream sauce complements the flaky puff pastry and juicy chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Meal: Great for both casual dinners and special occasions, offering a restaurant-quality experience at home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare components in advance to save time on busy days.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden puff pastry creates an eye-catching main course that will wow your family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce recipe plays a crucial role in the final dish, bringing together a balance of textures, colors, and flavors that turn simple components into a show-stopping meal. You’ll find this list straightforward but essential for that perfect bite.

• Boneless Chicken Breasts: Choose skinless and pounded thin for even cooking and tender texture.
• Frozen Puff Pastry Sheets: These provide the buttery, flaky crust that wraps the chicken beautifully.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and depth for the signature mustard cream sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a rich and silky sauce that ties the dish together.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce with warmth and aroma.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For searing the chicken and adding flavor.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Parsley): Brightens the dish with a burst of color and fresh taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors perfectly.
• Egg Wash: Beaten egg brushed on the puff pastry gives a gorgeous golden finish.

Variations for Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tailor it to your own taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether it’s swapping ingredients or adding new flavors, a little creativity can turn this classic into your next favorite go-to dish.

• Use Chicken Thighs: Swap breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful outcome.
• Add Mushrooms: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the filling for an earthy, meaty texture.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry sheets to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Include Cheese: A slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese inside adds creaminess and an extra layer of indulgence.
• Boost with Spinach: Adding fresh or sautéed spinach inside offers color and nutritional benefits.

How to Make Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken on both sides until golden but not fully cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. This step locks in juices and builds flavor before wrapping in puff pastry.

Step 2: Make the Mustard Cream Sauce

Using the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme or parsley for a fragrant, velvety sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Puff Pastry Wraps

Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a floured surface and cut into rectangles large enough to wrap each chicken breast. Place a chicken piece in the center of each pastry, spoon some mustard cream sauce over the top, then fold and seal the pastry edges completely to encase the chicken.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the puff pastry parcels with beaten egg to ensure a beautiful golden color during baking. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until pastry is puffed and deep golden brown.

Step 5: Serve with Extra Sauce

Warm any leftover mustard cream sauce and drizzle it over the baked chicken in puff pastry before serving to enhance every bite with rich, tangy goodness.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce

• Pat Dry Chicken: Make sure the chicken is dry before searing for a perfect golden crust.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to add too much sauce inside the pastry as it can prevent sealing and make the pastry soggy.
• Chill Wrapped Pastry: Refrigerate the assembled pastry pouches for 15 minutes before baking to keep them from shrinking.
• Use a Sharp Knife: Score shallow cuts in the puff pastry before baking to help steam escape and keep the pastry crisp.
• Cook Chicken Through: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

How to Serve Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled over the plated dish add a pop of green and fresh aroma. A light drizzle of extra mustard cream sauce on top makes each serving look inviting and moist.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These sides balance the richness of the puff pastry and sauce perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the chicken on a bed of sautéed spinach or wild rice, garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. Individual plates with a decorative brush of mustard sauce make the dish pop visually.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain pastry crispness.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the pastry-wrapped chicken but do not bake it. Place on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes to retain flakiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought puff pastry for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry is perfect for this recipe because it saves time and still achieves the light, flaky texture necessary for wrapping the chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes, the steps are straightforward and well-explained, making it an excellent recipe for cooks of all skill levels who want to try something a bit special without complexity.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by using gluten-free puff pastry, you can easily modify this dish to fit gluten-free dietary requirements without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How spicy is the mustard cream sauce?

The Dijon mustard provides a mild tang, not heat, so the sauce has more depth and sharpness rather than spiciness, making it suitable for most palates.

What wine pairs well with Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce?

White wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complement the richness of the cream sauce and buttery pastry nicely, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Chicken in Puff Pastry with Mustard Cream Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together flaky pastry, tender chicken, and a tangy, creamy sauce in perfect harmony. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the magic of homemade elegance bursting with flavor!

Related Posts

• Easy Spaghetti Tacos with Ground Beef Recipe
• Easy Ground Beef Sweet Potato Bowl Recipe
• Why Lobster Alfredo Pasta Will Amaze You

Print