Chicken Provençal
Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Chicken Provençal recipe, featuring succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables.
Chicken Provençal is a classic dish that brings the taste of southern France to your table. With its rich combination of herbs, olives, and tomatoes, this dish is not only delicious but also a vibrant representation of Mediterranean cuisine.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, aromatic flavors that transport you to the south of France
- A colorful dish that looks as good as it tastes
- Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for special occasions
A Taste of the Mediterranean
Chicken Provençal is a beautiful representation of Mediterranean cuisine, characterized by its vibrant ingredients and robust flavors. This dish brings together the essence of the south of France, where fresh herbs, ripe vegetables, and succulent meats create an unforgettable dining experience. You can almost feel the warm sun and gentle breeze of the French countryside with each bite.
The combination of chicken, olives, and tomatoes creates a harmonious balance of savory and sweet, while the herbs add depth and complexity. It's a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your soul. Enjoying Chicken Provençal is like taking a mini-vacation to the sunny Mediterranean coast.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a weeknight meal, Chicken Provençal fits the bill. Its ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. The dish’s impressive presentation makes it ideal for special occasions, ensuring your guests will be both wowed and satisfied.
Additionally, Chicken Provençal is versatile; you can pair it with a variety of side dishes, such as crusty bread, a fresh salad, or fluffy couscous. This adaptability allows you to customize the meal to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for any culinary enthusiast.
Cook Like a Pro
Mastering Chicken Provençal is easier than you might think. The key lies in the technique of searing the chicken to achieve that perfect golden skin, which not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture. Using an oven-proof skillet allows you to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven, creating a one-pan wonder that simplifies cleanup.
By following the steps outlined in the recipe, you will learn valuable cooking skills, such as balancing flavors and cooking times. These techniques can be applied to a variety of dishes, making this recipe a stepping stone to becoming a more confident home cook.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the herbs to your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
Combine and Bake
Add the cherry tomatoes, olives, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Chicken Provençal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the dish's flavors and textures, ensure that it cools completely before sealing. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing the dish for up to three months. Just be sure to separate it into portions for easy reheating.
When reheating, it's best to do so in the oven for even heating. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes, and enjoy the delightful flavors once again.
Pairing Suggestions
To complement the rich flavors of Chicken Provençal, consider serving it with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. These wines enhance the dish without overpowering it, allowing the aromatic herbs and vibrant vegetables to shine through.
For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing iced tea can also be great choices. Pairing your meal with a fresh green salad or crusty French bread will round out the dining experience, making it both satisfying and delightful.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.
→ What can I substitute for olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives, you can omit them or use capers for a different flavor.
→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it in the oven before serving.
→ What sides pair well with Chicken Provençal?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.
Chicken Provençal
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Chicken Provençal recipe, featuring succulent chicken, aromatic herbs, and vibrant vegetables.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Hearty Home Cooking
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for another 5 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
Add the cherry tomatoes, olives, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g