Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something about the aroma of a creamy bake wafting through the house that instantly elevates my mood, especially when it comes to a Gratin of Chicken. This dish transforms simple, tender chicken into a comforting masterpiece with the help of velvety cream cheese, aromatic tarragon, and a hint of mustard. One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its superb efficiency—perfectly suited for a cozy weeknight dinner without demanding hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a versatile crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters can’t resist! Whether you’re aiming to impress guests or simply seeking a heartwarming meal for the family, this creamy chicken delight is a winning choice. Ready to discover how to make it your own? Let’s dive in! Why is This Chicken Gratin So Irresistible? Comforting Creaminess: The velvety cream cheese melds beautifully with the chicken, creating an indulgent texture that warms the soul. Flavorful Twist: Aromatic tarragon and zesty mustard inject a unique flavor profile that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Quick Prep: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time, perfect for busy weeknights. Diet-Friendly Flexibility: This recipe is easily customizable; swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter option or even adapt it for different protein sources. Family Favorites: It’s a delightful dish that appeals to everyone, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it over rice or pasta, or alongside a simple salad like Thai Chicken Salad to complete your meal! Gratin of Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Mixture • Boneless, Skinless Chicken – This is the main protein, ensuring a tender bite every time. • Cream Cheese – Adds a rich creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter alternative. • Fresh Tarragon – Infuses the dish with a delightful aroma; use dried tarragon at half the amount if needed. • Dijon Mustard – Offers a subtle tang that elevates the flavors in this gratin of chicken. • Salt – Enhances the overall taste of the dish; adjust as desired for dietary needs. • Cayenne Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; reduce or omit if you’re looking for a milder option. For Baking • Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers – For an added crunchy topping, sprinkle these before baking! Feel inspired to create this creamy chicken delight? Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Gratin of Chicken with Mustard & Tarragon Magic Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin your crafting of this comforting Gratin of Chicken by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a hot environment for the dish to bake perfectly, allowing the cream cheese to meld into a smooth, rich sauce while the chicken cooks. Preheating usually takes about 10 minutes, so you’ll be ready to go when your mixture is prepared. Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce In a medium mixing bowl, combine your cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon. Use a spatula or whisk to blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Feel free to adjust the salt and cayenne pepper at this stage to suit your taste. The aromatic scents should start filling your kitchen, indicating you’re on the right track! Step 3: Fold in the Chicken Next, introduce your boneless, skinless chicken pieces into the creamy sauce. Gently fold the chicken into the mixture using a spatula, ensuring every piece is well-coated with the luscious sauce. This step usually takes around 2-3 minutes. The chicken should be fully immersed in the creamy goodness, ready to transform into the star of your gratin. Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish Take a medium baking dish and lightly grease it with a touch of oil or butter, which helps to prevent sticking. Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly with your spatula. This allows for even cooking and bubbling of the cream filling. Aim for a consistent depth across the entire dish to ensure the best texture. Step 5: Bake Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the top; it should start to bubble and turn a beautiful golden color as the cream cheese melts into a dreamy sauce. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Step 6: Let it Rest Once baked to perfection, remove the Gratin of Chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This pause lets the sauce thicken slightly, giving you a creamier texture to enjoy with each scoop. As it rests, the delightful aroma will continue to tempt your taste buds, making it a hard wait! Step 7: Serve and Savor Finally, scoop out generous portions of your creamy chicken gratin and serve hot. Pair it with warm rice, crusty bread, or pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights in! Make Ahead Options These creamy Gratin of Chicken options are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions to mix the cream cheese, mustard, tarragon, and chicken, then store it covered in the refrigerator. This method not only saves you time, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. On the day you’re ready to serve, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a delicious and comforting meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Gratin of Chicken Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture. Reheating: When reheating from the fridge, add a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Make-Ahead: Prepare the gratin ahead of time before baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Simply bake when ready to serve! Expert Tips for Gratin of Chicken Check Chicken Doneness: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption and perfect texture. Coat Evenly: When folding chicken into the creamy sauce, take your time to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated so every bite is flavorful. Adjust Personal Heat Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, consider omitting cayenne pepper or using a milder seasoning to maintain that creamy balance without overpowering heat. Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your gratin during baking. If you’re using lighter substitutes like Greek yogurt, it may cook faster than traditional cream cheese. Storage Tips: This gratin can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat to enjoy the comforting flavors again! What to Serve with Creamy Gratin of Chicken with Mustard & Tarragon Magic Creating a memorable meal is all about the perfect pairings that enhance and elevate each dish. Steamed Green Beans: Fresh and bright, they add a lovely crunch that complements the creaminess of the gratin nicely. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft within, it’s perfect for scooping up the luscious, cheesy sauce. Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, oranges, and vinaigrette brightens the palate and balances the rich flavors. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized root veggies like carrots and potatoes bring out natural sweetness, creating a wonderful flavor harmony. Herbed Rice: Lightly seasoned rice offers a fluffy texture that soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite a delight. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this bright white wine complements the buttery notes of the chicken and cream while enhancing the aromatic tarragon. For a complete experience that satisfies the senses, don’t shy away from experimenting with these delightful pairings! Variations & Substitutions for Gratin of Chicken Get ready to play with this creamy dish and make it your own with these delightful twists! Turkey Substitute: Replace chicken with turkey for a flavorful alternative that’s just as tender and delicious. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey during the holidays! Plant-Based Protein: Swap out the chicken for a hearty plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. This option makes the dish accessible for vegans or vegetarians, while still providing that comforting feel. Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter take. It maintains creaminess and adds a tangy note that complements the dish beautifully. Vegetable Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or broccoli before baking for a vibrant splash of color and nutrition. The greens add a wonderful texture that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds! Crunchy Topping: For an added crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top right before baking. This creates a golden, crispy layer that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. Cayenne Adjustments: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. This keeps the dish kid-friendly and appealing to sensitive palates. Flavor Variations: Try incorporating a dash of lemon zest or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving for an extra pop of flavor and freshness. It’s a simple way to brighten up the dish! Don’t forget, if you’re craving other creamy chicken goodness, you might want to explore dishes like White Chicken Lasagna or French Chicken Mushroom. Each recipe offers unique twists that are sure to please any crowd! Creamy Gratin of Chicken with Mustard & Tarragon Magic Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure tenderness and even cooking. Look for chicken that has a bright pink color and feels firm to the touch. Avoid any pieces that have dark spots or a slimy texture, as these indicate spoilage. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using organic or free-range chicken, which tends to have more flavor and a better texture. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Very! After enjoying your creamy gratin of chicken, make sure to let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, aim to do so until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. If you find the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of cream or broth while reheating to retain the creamy texture. Can I freeze this chicken gratin? Absolutely! For a longer storage option, you can freeze the cooled gratin in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze, make sure it’s fully cooled, then cover with plastic wrap and a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw, and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C). Add a touch of cream or broth if needed to bring back the creaminess. How can I tweak this recipe for dietary restrictions? Definitely! This creamy gratin of chicken is very flexible. For a lighter dish, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt—just ensure to use a thick variety for similar creaminess. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, try cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Additionally, if you need to consider spice levels, feel free to omit the cayenne pepper or replace it with a milder seasoning for those who may prefer it less spicy. What should I do if I’m having trouble with the creaminess of the sauce? If you find that your sauce is too thin or not creamy enough, there are a few things you can do. Make sure to mix the cream cheese thoroughly until it’s completely smooth before adding the chicken—this ensures an even consistency. If using lower-fat substitutes, remember that they might yield a different texture; you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Additionally, incorporating a little extra cream or even a thickener like cornstarch (mixed with cold water and added in small amounts) can help achieve that desired creaminess. Can I make this gratin a day in advance? Certainly! Preparing your gratin ahead of time is a fantastic option. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge; you’ll likely need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated all the way through. Enjoy the convenience of a stress-free dinner while impressing your family or guests! Creamy Gratin of Chicken with Mustard & Tarragon Magic This Creamy Gratin of Chicken elevates simple chicken with rich cream cheese, mustard, and tarragon, perfect for cozy family dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: CasseroleCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Mixture4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken8 oz Cream Cheese2 tablespoons Fresh Tarragon or 1 tablespoon dried tarragon2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard1 teaspoon Salt adjust to taste1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper reduce or omit for milder flavorFor Baking1 cup Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers for topping Equipment ovenMedium mixing bowlBaking DishSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon. Blend until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.Fold in the boneless, skinless chicken pieces into the creamy sauce until well-coated.Grease a medium baking dish lightly with oil or butter. Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture, spreading evenly.Bake for 25 minutes until bubbling and golden on top.Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.Serve with warm rice, bread, or pasta. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
