chicken chasseur
If you’re in the mood for a cozy dinner that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make, I’ve got just the thing for you: Chicken Chasseur! this delicious dish, with its tender chicken and savory mushroom-tomato sauce, is perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Chasseur
To create a mouth-watering Chicken Chasseur, you’ll need a blend of fresh ingredients that come together to make a savory sauce.Here’s what to gather:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 8 ounces each)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1¾ teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 ounces fresh cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2/3 cup sliced shallots
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- ½ cup plus 1 tablespoon sweet vermouth (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon (optional, plus extra for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
These ingredients combine to create a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering or even just a cozy dinner at home. The chicken is juicy, the sauce is packed with umami, and those mushrooms add a delightful earthiness. Don’t skip the fresh herbs—they really elevate the dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Chasseur
Ready to cook? let’s walk through the process of making your Chicken Chasseur step by step. It’s easier than you might think!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives the chicken the perfect environment to finish cooking while absorbing all those lovely flavors.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps get that skin nice and crispy! Season both sides evenly with black pepper and 1¼ teaspoons of salt.
- Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.Once hot, add the chicken, skin-side down. Cook until the skin is deeply browned and crispy,about 8 to 10 minutes.Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes. After browning, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Remove excess drippings from the skillet, leaving about 2 tablespoons for flavor. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced mushrooms. Spread them out in an even layer and let them cook, undisturbed, for about 4 minutes.
- Stir in the shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and golden, about 4 more minutes. Then add tomato paste and garlic, cooking for an additional minute.
- Pour in ½ cup of vermouth (if using) and let it reduce slightly, stirring occasionally for about 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and chicken stock to the skillet, and stir in the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up, ensuring that the skin remains exposed.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 22 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 175°F (79°C).
- For the finishing touch, remove the chicken and place it on a serving platter. return the skillet to medium-high heat and cook the sauce for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring until slightly thickened.
- Stir in fresh thyme, tarragon, and cubed cold butter until melted and the sauce becomes velvety.
Your delicious Chicken Chasseur is ready to be served! This dish is best enjoyed with a side of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up that rich sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Serving and Storage Details for Chicken Chasseur
When it comes to serving your Chicken Chasseur, I love pairing it with simple sides that complement its rich flavors.Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad make excellent companions. The velvety sauce is perfect for drizzling over these sides, so don’t be shy about serving extra!
This recipe yields approximately four servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for impressing guests at your next gathering. If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), you can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure to place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container to keep it fresh.To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also microwave the portion while covering it to avoid drying out the chicken. If you want to make the dish in advance,you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge.
For longer storage, consider freezing the Chicken Chasseur. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.This dish reheats beautifully, and the flavors often deepen after a night in the fridge.
Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Chasseur
Making Chicken Chasseur is a rewarding experience, but like any dish, a few tips can help you avoid common pitfalls. Here are some notes and troubleshooting ideas to guide you.
- Chicken Drying Out: If you’re concerned about the chicken drying out, try not to overcook it in the oven. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—175°F (79°C) is the sweet spot for juicy chicken. Remember that the chicken will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the oven.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin for your liking, let it simmer longer to reduce. Stir it occasionally to prevent sticking. If it’s too thick, adding a little more chicken stock can help bring it back to the right consistency.
- Flavor Adjustments: If you prefer a more robust flavor, feel free to increase the garlic and herbs.Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also be added for a different spin.
- Using Different Cuts: While bone-in, skin-on thighs are ideal for this recipe, you can use drumsticks or even boneless cuts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken cooks faster.
by keeping these tips in mind, you’re more likely to create a Chicken Chasseur that’s bursting with flavor and impressively tender. Enjoy cooking, and savor each bite of this delightful dish!