Chicken Chasseur, also known as “Hunter’s Chicken,” is a classic French dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce made from tomatoes, mushrooms, and herbs. This hearty dish has become a favorite in many households due to its deep flavors and relatively simple preparation. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a comforting meal at home, Chicken Chasseur is a perfect choice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this delicious dish.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients prepared. For Chicken Chasseur, you’ll need the following:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 400g canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 100ml white wine
- 200ml chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried tarragon)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Having everything ready and within reach will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Sear the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large, heavy-based pan over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is crucial as it locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust on the chicken. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The combination of onion and garlic forms the aromatic base of the sauce. Now, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and lightly browned.
Once the mushrooms are cooked, stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it evenly coats the ingredients. The tomato paste adds depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze it and incorporate any browned bits into the sauce. Allow the wine to reduce by half, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Simmer and Combine,Chicken Chasseur
After the wine has reduced, add the canned tomatoes and chicken stock to the pan. Stir everything together, then return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, skin-side up. The chicken should be partially submerged in the sauce. Sprinkle the chopped tarragon over the top, giving the dish its signature herbal note.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the Chicken Chasseur simmer for 30-35 minutes. This slow cooking allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce while becoming tender and succulent. Occasionally, check the sauce, giving it a gentle stir to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
5. Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, and the sauce has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Chicken Chasseur pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed green beans or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Mastering Chicken Chasseur is easier than you might think, and the result is a dish that feels luxurious yet comforting. With just five simple steps, you can create a meal that will delight your taste buds and impress anyone who tries it. The combination of tender chicken, rich sauce, and fragrant h