When you’re in the mood for a hearty yet balanced meal, this Creamy Mustard Chicken with Rice, Peas, and Corn is the perfect choice. Tender chicken fillets are simmered in a luscious mustard-cream sauce with aromatic vegetables, then paired with fluffy rice mixed with peas, corn, and fresh herbs. It’s a wholesome dish that feels both comforting and fresh, making it suitable for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or even meal prepping for the week.
Full Recipe
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 chicken fillets – 400 g (14 oz)
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1 clove garlic
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1 bell pepper – 120 g (4.2 oz)
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1 celery stalk – 80 g (2.8 oz)
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1 onion – 100 g (3.5 oz)
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1 tbsp mustard – 15 g
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250 ml (1 cup) cream
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100 ml (½ cup) broth
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1 tbsp soy sauce – 15 ml
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Small bunch fresh dill
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
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1 cup (200 g / 7 oz) rice
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1 tsp salt – 5 g
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2 cloves garlic
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2 tbsp peas – 30 g
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2 tbsp corn – 30 g
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Small bunch parsley
Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Chicken Fillets
Rinse the chicken fillets under cold water, then pat dry. Cut them into bite-sized strips or cubes for even cooking. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. -
Sauté the Vegetables
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Dice the bell pepper and celery. In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. -
Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until the chicken turns golden on the outside, about 5 minutes. -
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the mustard and soy sauce, mixing well so the chicken is coated. Pour in the cream and broth, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is cooked through. -
Add Fresh Herbs
Finely chop the dill and stir it into the sauce just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed. -
Cook the Rice Garnish
Rinse the rice in cold water until it runs clear. In a pot, bring water to a boil with 1 tsp salt. Add the rice and cook until tender. In the last few minutes, add the peas, corn, and 2 whole garlic cloves to infuse flavor. Drain if necessary. Remove the garlic cloves before serving. -
Finish the Rice
Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness. -
Serve the Dish
On each plate, spoon a portion of the herbed rice, then top with creamy mustard chicken. Garnish with extra dill or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrients (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 520 kcal
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Protein: 32 g
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Fat: 22 g
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Carbohydrates: 48 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Calcium, Iron
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: richness and freshness. The mustard adds a tangy kick to the cream sauce, while the dill lifts it with a delicate herbal note. The rice side dish is more than just a starch—it’s colorful, flavorful, and adds texture with peas and corn. It’s filling without being overly heavy, making it a meal that satisfies without leaving you sluggish.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Creamy mustard sauces are rooted in European cooking, particularly French cuisine, where Dijon mustard often stars in pan sauces. This recipe takes that idea and simplifies it for home cooking, adding soy sauce for depth and cream for comfort. Pairing it with rice instead of potatoes gives it a slightly lighter, more versatile feel, drawing inspiration from global kitchens that blend cream sauces with grains.
Ingredient Spotlight
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Chicken Fillets: Lean and protein-packed, chicken fillets absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
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Mustard: A key flavor enhancer, mustard adds tang, sharpness, and complexity.
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Cream: Provides body and richness, turning the sauce silky.
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Dill: Brightens up the cream sauce, balancing its richness.
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Rice, Peas, and Corn: Not just a side but a complementary base, providing both texture and color.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken reheats best in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out. The rice can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop with a spoonful of water to restore its fluffiness. This dish is also freezer-friendly—store the chicken and rice separately for best results.
Common Variations to Try
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Swap chicken for turkey fillets or pork strips.
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Use Dijon mustard for a sharper flavor or honey mustard for a sweeter twist.
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Add mushrooms to the sauce for earthiness.
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Replace dill with basil or parsley for a different herbal profile.
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Try quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a grain variation.
Pairing Recommendations
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for extra freshness. For drinks, a chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with lemon or iced green tea.
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Health Benefits
This recipe balances lean protein from chicken, complex carbs from rice, and micronutrients from vegetables and herbs. Dill and parsley bring antioxidants, while garlic supports immunity. Using cream in moderation allows you to enjoy a rich sauce without overindulgence. Peas and corn add fiber, vitamins, and a hint of natural sweetness.
Conclusion
Creamy Mustard Chicken with Rice, Peas, and Corn is the kind of meal that feels both special and approachable. It’s a dish that brings comfort to the table while still offering freshness and balance. With its velvety sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant rice garnish, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknights but impressive enough for guests, this is a recipe worth adding to your rotation.