Chicken Provençal recipe

The Chicken Provençal recipe brings the vibrant flavors of southern France right to your dinner table. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight meals, or entertaining guests. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy olives, and sweet tomatoes creates a delightful medley that is both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, the use of fresh herbs and simple ingredients makes it an easy yet impressive option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Aromatic: Fresh thyme and garlic infuse the chicken with a rich flavor that will impress everyone at your table.
• One-Pot Wonder: This dish cooks in one pan, reducing cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, polenta, or mashed potatoes for a customizable meal that suits any preference.
• Great for Meal Prep: Cook a batch in advance to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors and appealing presentation, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large oven-proof pan
• Instant-read thermometer
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large oven-proof pan: This allows you to sear the chicken and finish cooking it in the oven without needing to transfer it to another dish.
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature for safety and juiciness.

Ingredients

For this delicious Chicken Provençal recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken and Seasoning

• 8 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

Aromatics and Vegetables

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 to 4 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 12 cloves garlic, peeled
• 6 medium shallots, peeled and halved
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes

Sweetness and Acidity

• ½ cup halved and pitted dates
• 1 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 cup dry white grape juice (such as Sauvignon Blanc)

Serving Suggestions (Optional)

• 4 cups cooked rice
• 4 cups cooked polenta
• 4 cups mashed potatoes
• Crusty bread

How to Make Chicken Provençal Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F with a rack positioned in the lower third. This ensures even cooking for your chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season all sides of the chicken thighs generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. This will enhance their natural flavors.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large oven-proof pan over medium-high heat, heat the extra-virgin olive oil until it’s shimmering.
1. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down into the hot pan.
2. Cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Flip the chicken thighs over. Arrange fresh thyme, garlic cloves, shallots, cherry tomatoes, dates, and green olives around them in the pan.

Step 5: Add Liquid & Bake

Pour in the dry white grape juice (or vinegar) around the chicken.
1. Bring everything to a simmer on the stovetop.
2. Cover the pan with a lid or foil; then transfer it to your preheated oven.
3. Bake for about 60 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer shows that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked through, remove from the oven. Serve your Chicken Provençal over rice, polenta, or mashed potatoes with crusty bread on the side if desired.

Enjoy this delightful Chicken Provençal recipe that captures both tradition and comfort on every plate!

How to Serve Chicken Provençal recipe

This Chicken Provençal recipe is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. The rich flavors of the braised chicken, combined with the sweetness of tomatoes and olives, offer versatile serving options that enhance your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the Chicken Provençal over a bed of fluffy rice. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Polenta

• Creamy polenta pairs beautifully with this dish. Its smooth texture complements the tender chicken and savory sauce perfectly.

Mashed Potatoes

• A serving of creamy mashed potatoes is a comforting option. They soak up the sauce well and add a heartiness to your meal.

Crusty Bread

• Pair your Chicken Provençal with crusty bread for dipping. This adds an enjoyable crunch and helps you savor every drop of the sauce.

How to Perfect Chicken Provençal recipe

To ensure your Chicken Provençal recipe turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose quality chicken: Opt for fresh bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for optimal flavor and moisture during cooking.
• Be patient when browning: Allow the chicken to sear without moving it too soon. A good golden brown crust adds depth to the dish.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme significantly enhances flavor compared to dried herbs. If using dried thyme, reduce the amount slightly.
• Don’t skip the simmer: Allowing the ingredients to simmer together before transferring them to the oven melds flavors beautifully.
• Check doneness carefully: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving helps lock in juices and improve overall taste.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Provençal recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Provençal can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors:

1. Garlic Green Beans
   Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic add a crisp and fresh touch, enhancing the main dish’s richness.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings a vibrant color and depth of flavor to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers provides a light yet nutritious counterbalance to the hearty chicken.
4. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs offers a subtle flavor that pairs well with the robust Chicken Provençal.
5. Mixed Greens Salad
   A simple mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the chicken dish.
6. Ratatouille
   This classic French vegetable dish complements Chicken Provençal beautifully, adding layers of flavor from eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers.
7. Sweet Potato Mash
   Creamy sweet potato mash adds a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements in the main dish.
8. Cauliflower Rice
   For a lighter option, cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb alternative while soaking up all those wonderful flavors from the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Chicken Provençal recipe turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken adequately can result in bland flavors. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Crowding the pan: If you overcrowd the pan while browning the chicken, it won’t sear properly. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve a golden brown finish.
• Neglecting temperature checks: Failing to check the chicken’s internal temperature can lead to undercooking or overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale or old ingredients can impact flavor. Opt for fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and quality olives for the best results.
• Not allowing rest time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can dry it out. Let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Provençal in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Provençal recipe

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Provençal recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this Chicken Provençal recipe.

How do I make a Chicken Provençal recipe?

You make a Chicken Provençal recipe by seasoning chicken thighs, browning them in olive oil, and then braising with garlic, tomatoes, olives, dates, and thyme until cooked through.

Can I customize my Chicken Provençal recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or replace olives with capers depending on your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with Chicken Provençal recipe?

Delicious sides include rice, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Can I use boneless chicken in this Chicken Provençal recipe?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will work well; just adjust cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.

Is this Chicken Provençal recipe healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with lean protein and vegetables while being free from gluten and dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Provençal recipe brings vibrant flavors of France right to your dinner table. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on what you have on hand. Whether served over rice or polenta, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Try it out today!