Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further! This Chicken Provencal recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the French Riviera straight to your kitchen. Inspired by Jamie Oliver's style of cooking, this dish emphasizes fresh, simple ingredients to create a truly memorable meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to enjoy the aromatic herbs and juicy chicken in this quick and easy dinner recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
Instructions:
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear for another 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, basil, and oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
Step 4: Braise the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. If using olives, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Spoon the delicious sauce over the chicken and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Provencal:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: These are the best choice for this recipe because they stay juicy and flavorful while braising.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Use good quality olive oil: It makes a big difference in the overall flavor of the dish.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less herbs and spices depending on your preference.
- Serve with a side: Roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple green salad are all great accompaniments to this dish.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Chicken Provencal recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors. It’s a healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying homemade dinner. Enjoy!