Chicken Provençal
Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Experience the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean with this Chicken Provençal recipe, featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce of tomatoes, olives, and herbs.
This Chicken Provençal recipe is inspired by the sunny flavors of the South of France. The combination of tomatoes, olives, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices
- Tender chicken simmered to perfection
- Rich, tangy sauce that pairs beautifully with crusty bread
The Essence of Provençal Cuisine
Provençal cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors and rustic ingredients, drawing inspiration from the sun-drenched landscapes of southern France. This Chicken Provençal recipe is a perfect representation of this culinary tradition, showcasing the region's love for fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and olives. Each bite offers a taste of the Mediterranean, making it a delightful choice for family dinners or special gatherings.
At the heart of Provençal cooking lies an emphasis on simplicity and quality. The ingredients used in this dish are carefully selected to enhance rather than overpower one another. The combination of chicken, tomatoes, and olives creates a balance of richness and acidity, making this dish not only delicious but also a nutritious option for any meal.
Perfect Pairings
Chicken Provençal is versatile in its serving suggestions. For a hearty meal, consider pairing it with crusty French bread to soak up the luscious sauce. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta to create a comforting dish that is sure to satisfy. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can complement the meal beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
When it comes to beverages, a light-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or a Côtes du Rhône, pairs wonderfully with Chicken Provençal. The wine enhances the dish's savory elements while balancing its acidity, making for a delightful dining experience. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a refreshing herbal iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Chicken Provençal
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pitted olives (black or green)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin-side down, and brown for about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, olives, thyme, and oregano. Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Simmer
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Chicken Provençal with crusty bread or over a bed of rice!
Make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken Provençal not only delights the taste buds but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs are a great source of protein, providing essential nutrients to support muscle health and overall wellness. They are also rich in B vitamins, which play a vital role in energy metabolism and brain function.
The addition of tomatoes contributes to this dish's healthfulness, packing it with antioxidants like lycopene, which is linked to numerous health benefits, including heart health. Olives add healthy fats to the mix, promoting cardiovascular health and providing anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these ingredients create a dish that is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Variations to Try
While this Chicken Provençal recipe is delightful as is, there are many ways to personalize it according to your preferences. For a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers to the sauce. If you love vegetables, feel free to toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for added texture and flavor.
You can also experiment with different types of olives, such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano, to suit your taste. For a touch of smokiness, try incorporating some smoked paprika. Each variation allows you to make this dish your own while remaining true to its Provençal roots.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they will cook faster.
→ What can I serve with Chicken Provençal?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it gently before serving.
→ Is Chicken Provençal gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free olives and check your canned tomatoes for any additives.
Chicken Provençal
Experience the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean with this Chicken Provençal recipe, featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich sauce of tomatoes, olives, and herbs.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Provençal
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pitted olives (black or green)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin-side down, and brown for about 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, olives, thyme, and oregano. Return the chicken to the skillet, skin-side up, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your Chicken Provençal with crusty bread or over a bed of rice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g