Crispy Chicken Thighs with Creamy Mustard Sauce

Crafting a flavourful and complete dinner in under half an hour is entirely achievable with this recipe. These boneless chicken thighs, pan-fried until the skin is golden and irresistibly crispy, are perfectly complemented by fresh spinach and an indulgent, creamy mustard sauce. This dish is expertly designed for those evenings when time is of the essence, yet you refuse to compromise on taste or quality. The approach is elegantly simple: whilst the chicken cooks to perfection, the rich sauce is prepared directly in the very same pan, streamlining your process and significantly minimising washing up.

Quick Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (approx. 7-8.8 oz (200-250g) each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 5.3 oz (150g) fresh spinach
• 4 fl oz (120ml) fresh double cream (or cooking cream)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 fl oz (60ml) chicken stock (or water)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Pat the chicken thighs thoroughly dry with kitchen paper. Generously season the skin with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for 8-10 minutes, without moving them, until the skin is golden and crispy.
3. Flip the chicken over and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 74°C/165°F). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
4. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the spinach and wilt it for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour the fresh double cream, Dijon mustard, and chicken stock into the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce has slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Return the chicken thighs to the pan with the sauce and spinach to warm through briefly. Serve immediately.

Serving & Leftovers

Serve the crispy chicken thighs with the creamy sauce and warm spinach immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with basmati rice or quick roasted potatoes. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. We recommend reheating gently, preferably in a pan, to maintain the chicken’s texture.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portions.

One Last Thing

Having a reliable method for preparing a delicious dinner in little time is a true asset to your weekly routine. This recipe offers precisely that: a fulfilling dish created without undue haste, demonstrating that wholesome home cooking can always be within everyone’s reach, even on the busiest of days.