Chicken Provençal
Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates
A delightful combination of juicy chicken and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, Chicken Provençal is a dish that brings the taste of France right to your kitchen.
Chicken Provençal is a classic dish that hails from the sunny region of Provence in France. This recipe combines succulent chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a dish that is both hearty and comforting. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, Chicken Provençal captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with Mediterranean flavors from fresh herbs and vegetables
- Easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
- Can be served with a variety of sides for a complete meal
The Essence of Provençal Cuisine
Provençal cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, reflecting the beauty of the Mediterranean landscape. This region of France is blessed with an abundance of fresh herbs, sun-ripened vegetables, and high-quality olive oil, making it a culinary paradise. Chicken Provençal showcases these elements beautifully, combining tender chicken with a symphony of flavors that evoke the warmth and sunshine of the South of France.
Using aromatic herbs like thyme and oregano enhances the dish, infusing it with the essence of Provence. The use of seasonal vegetables not only adds color and texture but also contributes to the overall healthiness of the meal. This dish is not just about taste; it’s about celebrating the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean.
A Versatile Dinner Option
One of the standout features of Chicken Provençal is its versatility. This dish can easily be adapted to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you choose to add additional vegetables like eggplant or asparagus or substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, the recipe remains forgiving and flexible. You can also adjust the level of seasoning to match your taste, making it a great option for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Serving Chicken Provençal is equally adaptable. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as crusty French bread, fluffy rice, or a fresh green salad. Each side can complement the rich flavors of the chicken and vegetables, allowing you to create a well-rounded meal that caters to everyone's tastes.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Preparing Chicken Provençal ahead of time can save you effort during busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken with the herbs and spices in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, chopping the vegetables the night before can streamline your cooking process, making it even easier to whip up this delicious dish after a long day.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen and improve with time, making your next meal just as delightful. When reheating, do so gently to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables from becoming too mushy.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 tablespoon capers
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking for the best results!
Steps
Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
Sauté the Vegetables
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, stirring to combine.
Combine and Bake
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, white wine, and add the capers. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your Chicken Provençal with crusty bread or over rice!
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete dining experience, consider serving Chicken Provençal alongside a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The peppery notes of arugula balance the richness of the chicken, while the acidity of the vinaigrette brightens the dish. Alternatively, roasted potatoes with a sprinkle of rosemary make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the Provençal sauce.
If you're looking to enhance the Mediterranean experience, a glass of chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Rosé, would complement the dish perfectly. These wines echo the fresh flavors of the chicken and vegetables, making your meal truly memorable.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken Provençal is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein while being juicy and flavorful. The inclusion of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes adds a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal.
The use of olive oil contributes healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the fresh herbs not only enhance flavor but also provide various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. This makes Chicken Provençal a dish you can feel good about serving to your family.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ What can I serve with Chicken Provençal?
This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and reheat it in the oven before serving.
→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Chicken Provençal can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Chicken Provençal
A delightful combination of juicy chicken and vibrant Mediterranean flavors, Chicken Provençal is a dish that brings the taste of France right to your kitchen.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Global Gourmet Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 tablespoon capers
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Sear the chicken in the skillet until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, stirring to combine.
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, white wine, and add the capers. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your Chicken Provençal with crusty bread or over rice!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g