Chicken Provencal: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken Provencal, a dish that sings of sun-drenched fields and the fragrant herbs of the South of France, is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Imagine tender chicken, braised to perfection in a rich tomato sauce, infused with garlic, olives, and the unmistakable aroma of herbes de Provence. Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the French countryside without ever leaving your kitchen?

This rustic stew, also known as poulet à la Provençale, has its roots in the traditional cooking of Provence, a region celebrated for its simple yet flavorful dishes. Historically, it was a way for home cooks to utilize readily available ingredients from their gardens and local markets. The beauty of Chicken Provencal lies in its adaptability; each family likely had their own unique version, passed down through generations.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of the tomatoes, the briny tang of the olives, the earthy notes of the herbs, all complementing the savory chicken. The braising process ensures incredibly moist and tender meat, while the sauce is perfect for soaking up with crusty bread or serving over pasta. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Get ready to experience a taste of Provence!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2.5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon dried Herbes de Provence
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For Serving:
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
• Cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes (optional, for serving)

Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. Season them generously on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it’s the foundation of the flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pot. Don’t overcrowd the pot; you may need to do this in batches. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This step is all about building flavor and creating a beautiful crust. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – those are packed with flavor!
4. Add Garlic and Peppers: Add the minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped yellow bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the peppers are slightly softened, about 3-5 minutes. The garlic should become fragrant but not burn.

Creating the Provencal Sauce:

1. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the dry white wine and bring to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any remaining browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This process, called deglazing, releases all those delicious caramelized flavors into the sauce. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
2. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, tomato paste, Herbes de Provence, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Season the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the chicken is already seasoned, so start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.

Combining and Simmering:

1. Return the Chicken to the Pot: Nestle the seared chicken thighs into the sauce, making sure they are mostly submerged. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
2. Simmer the Chicken: Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and very tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Check for Tenderness: After 45 minutes, check the chicken for tenderness. It should be easily pierced with a fork. If it’s not quite there, continue simmering for another 15-30 minutes.
4. Adjust Sauce Consistency (Optional): If the sauce is too thin, you can remove the chicken from the pot and simmer the sauce uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it to your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-reduce it, as it will thicken as it cools.

Serving the Chicken Provencal:

1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the pot and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the Provencal sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
2. Serving Suggestions: Serve the Chicken Provencal hot, with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. It’s also wonderful served over cooked rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. The choice is yours!

Tips for the Best Chicken Provencal:

• Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken is essential for developing a rich, flavorful crust and adding depth to the sauce.
• Use Good Quality Tomatoes: The quality of the tomatoes will significantly impact the flavor of the sauce. Opt for good quality canned crushed and diced tomatoes.
• Fresh Herbs: While dried Herbes de Provence are convenient, using a combination of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano will elevate the flavor even further. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their freshness.
• Wine Choice: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best in this recipe. Avoid sweet wines, as they will make the sauce too sweet. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with additional chicken broth.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit them altogether.
• Make Ahead: Chicken Provencal is a great make-ahead dish. The flavors actually develop and deepen over time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
• Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs is crucial for the best flavor and texture. The bones add richness to the sauce, and the skin crisps up beautifully during the searing process.
• Slow and Low: Simmering the chicken slowly over low heat ensures that it becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
• Seasoning is Key: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken and the sauce generously with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Leftovers: Leftover Chicken Provencal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s also delicious reheated and served in sandwiches or wraps.

Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Add them along with the bell peppers.
• Use Different Cuts of Chicken: While chicken thighs are the most flavorful option, you can also use chicken breasts or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken breasts will cook faster than thighs.
• Add Olives: For a more authentic Provencal flavor, add a handful of Kalamata olives or other Mediterranean olives to the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest added to the sauce at the end of cooking can brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity.
• Bacon or Pancetta: For a richer, smokier flavor, add some cooked bacon or pancetta to the pot along with the onions.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Chicken Provencal recipe isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a culinary journey to the sun-drenched fields of Provence, right in your own kitchen. The vibrant flavors of the herbs, the juicy tenderness of the chicken, and the rich, savory sauce all combine to create a truly unforgettable meal. I genuinely believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who appreciates good food and wants to experience a taste of the Mediterranean.

But why is it a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s also surprisingly simple to make. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip up this masterpiece. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your family and friends without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of elegance and ease.

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. I personally love serving this Chicken Provencal over a bed of creamy polenta or fluffy couscous. The polenta soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully, while the couscous adds a light and airy texture that complements the richness of the chicken. You could also serve it with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce – trust me, you won’t want to waste a single drop!

For variations, feel free to get creative! If you’re not a fan of chicken thighs, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out. You could also add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color to your plate. Another fun variation is to add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of complexity. A dry Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would work perfectly.

And if you’re looking to make this dish even more special, consider using high-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs, organic chicken, and locally sourced vegetables will all contribute to a more flavorful and authentic experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Chicken Provencal for yourself. I truly believe it will become a staple in your household. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a potluck. It’s versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to please.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do, please don’t hesitate to share your experience with me. I’d love to hear your thoughts, see your photos, and learn about any variations you’ve tried. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I’m always eager to connect with fellow food lovers and share our culinary adventures. Happy cooking!