Dinner Done Fast: Mustard Chicken

Both Mathlete and I work full time and commute a pretty far distance to our offices. On nights when we run even the slightest bit late or have an errand to run, it can totally wreck dinner.  It is those times that I really appreciate my small arsenal of really quick to the table meals.
Last week, we had a very hectic week and I pulled out one of Mathlete's favorite recipes that I knew I could get done fast: Mustard Chicken (adapted from this recipe).

What do you need?
- 1 lb chicken breast
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon (plus more for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup heavy cream

This dish traditionally features a full chicken breast but, in the interest of time, I cut mine up into bite sized pieces so they would cook a lot quicker.  A bonus:  my kids consider the pieces like chicken nuggets so it takes care of kid dinner too!

Season your chicken with salt and pepper.  A quick swirl of olive oil in my pan over medium heat and then in goes the chicken.

While the chicken is browning in the pan, I gather my ingredients for the sauce

Once the chicken is all done, remove it from the pan and keep it warm.  Pour 1/4 cup chicken broth into the pan and scrape up all the yummy bits.  Let it simmer until it is reduced by half (takes about one minute).  I usually throw in 1/2 teaspoon garlic at this point too but that is mostly because I just love garlic.  You get a much smoother sauce without it!
Now, whisk in 2 tablespoons of dijon mustard and 1/2 teaspoon of dried tarragon.  Let that simmer for 2-3 minutes (continuing to whisk) and then, whisk in 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (don't have it on hand...no worries. Use 3/4 cup milk and 1/3 cup of butter to make 1 cup of whipping cream)

Continue to whisk the sauce over medium heat until it thickens.  Remove it from the heat and drizzle it over your chicken.  Top it with a sprinkle of dried tarragon. {You can see I served it with white rice here but you could do a ton of different sides!)

Dinner's ready!

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