Description
Chicken Provencal
Chicken Provencal with shallots and garlic is a true representation of southern French cuisine, filled with fragrant herbs and a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe involves searing chicken pieces to golden perfection before roasting them with shallots, garlic, wine, and Herbs de Provence. Inspired by classic French cooking, this dish brings together the beautiful, rustic flavors of Provence, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering. The use of simple ingredients, yet bursting with flavor, ensures this recipe will impress any guest!
3-4 chicken legs (whole quarters)
6 medium shallots, peeled and quartered
8 garlic cloves, peeled
1/2 cup flour
1 tbsp Herbs de Provence
1/2 lemon, juiced
1/2 cup dry red or white wine
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Herbs de Provence.
3. Coat in flour, shake off excess.
4. Sear in hot skillet until golden (2-3 mins per side).
5. Add shallots, garlic, lemon juice, wine, and remaining herbs.
6. Roast in oven for 25-30 mins.
Prep Time: 15 min
Kcal: 552
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Chicken Provencal. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels—this is crucial for a good sear. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, Herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken, skin-side down. Do not overcrowd the pan; sear for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown. Remove the chicken to a plate temporarily.
In the same skillet, add the quartered shallots and whole garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they just begin to soften. Pour in the wine and lemon juice, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is called deglazing and adds immense flavor. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the shallots and garlic.
Serving Suggestions
This rustic dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that soak up the delicious sauce. Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or fluffy couscous. For a lighter option, crusty French bread and a simple green salad with a Dijon vinaigrette are perfect. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Season and flour chicken, then sear until golden. Sauté shallots and garlic in the same pan. Deglaze with wine and lemon juice. Return chicken to the pan and transfer everything to a 400°F oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of legs?
Yes, but bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts or thighs are recommended for juicier results. Adjust cooking time as breasts may cook faster.
What can I substitute for Herbes de Provence?
Make your own blend using dried thyme, rosemary, savory, marjoram, and a touch of lavender or fennel seeds.
Is the wine absolutely necessary?
The wine provides acidity and depth. For a non-alcoholic version, use an equal amount of chicken broth mixed with a tablespoon of red or white wine vinegar.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is safe to eat when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can sear the chicken and prepare the sauce base ahead. Refrigerate separately, then combine and finish roasting just before serving for best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not patting the chicken dry: This prevents proper browning.
- Crowding the pan while searing: This steams the chicken instead of creating a crispy, golden crust.
- Skipping the deglazing step: Those browned bits are packed with flavor; incorporate them into your sauce.
- Using boneless, skinless chicken: It can easily become dry. The skin and bone add flavor and protect the meat during roasting.
Conclusion
Chicken Provencal is a stunning, flavor-packed dish that brings the essence of the French countryside to your table. With its combination of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, sweet shallots, and rich pan sauce, it’s a meal that feels both elegant and comforting. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create a restaurant-worthy dinner that is sure to become a family favorite. Bon appétit!