Slow Cooker French Wine and Mustard Chicken is a rich and comforting dish made with tender chicken slow-cooked in a creamy Dijon and white wine sauce with soft wilted greens that melt right into the flavor. It reminds me of those cozy evenings when a warm, elegant French-style meal made the whole house feel calm, special, and ready for a slow, peaceful dinner. The mix of white wine, cream, Dijon, garlic, and herbs creates a silky sauce that tastes luxurious but stays incredibly easy to prepare. This Slow Cooker French Wine and Mustard Chicken is perfect for relaxed nights, holiday dinners, or moments when you want a dish that feels comforting and restaurant-quality at the same time.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 chicken breasts (skin-on or boneless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme or 1 tbsp fresh thyme
- 2 cups chopped kale or Swiss chard
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional for thickening)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sear each breast for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. This adds flavor and helps the chicken hold its shape in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Place the seared chicken into the slow cooker.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 4: Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the alcohol cook off slightly.
Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, chicken broth, and thyme. Mix until smooth.
Step 6: Pour the creamy wine mustard sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
Step 7: Add the chopped kale or Swiss chard on top. It will wilt as it cooks.
Step 8: Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or on HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
Step 9: If the sauce is too thin, stir together cornstarch and water, then mix it into the sauce. Cook for another 10 minutes until thickened.
Step 10: Spoon the creamy sauce and greens over each chicken breast before serving.
Variations
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts
• Swap kale for spinach or Swiss chard
• Add mushrooms for a deeper flavor
• Use crème fraîche instead of heavy cream
• Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness
COOKING NOTES
• Searing the chicken adds flavor and color
• Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
• Don’t skip Dijon; it gives the sauce depth
• Add cornstarch only if needed for thickness
• Cream may separate if cooked too long on HIGH
Serving suggestions
• Serve over mashed potatoes
• Pair with white rice or buttered noodles
• Add crusty bread to soak up the sauce
• Serve with roasted asparagus or green beans
• Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley
Tips
• Don’t use sweet wine; it changes the flavor
• Stir sauce gently to keep it creamy
• Add greens in the last hour for a fresher texture
• Taste sauce and adjust mustard to preference
• Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~480
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 38g
FAQs
Why is my sauce too thin?
- Add cornstarch and water at the end to thicken, then cook 10 more minutes.
Can I skip the wine?
- Yes, use extra broth plus 1 tbsp lemon juice for acidity.
Can I use chicken thighs?
- Yes, thighs stay extra tender in the slow cooker.
Why did my cream separate?
- Too high heat can cause this; use LOW for best results.
Can I add vegetables?
- Mushrooms, carrots, or leeks work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker French Wine and Mustard Chicken is a comforting, elegant dish that brings creamy Dijon sauce, tender chicken, and warm French flavors into one simple recipe perfect for cozy nights and special dinners. The combination of wine, cream, herbs, and greens makes every bite rich, smooth, and satisfying, creating a meal that feels both relaxing and impressive. It’s easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and delicious enough to become a favorite for holidays, gatherings, or quiet evenings at home where you want something warm, delicious, and unforgettable.
