The aroma of sizzling chicken fills the kitchen as I catch a glimpse of France right from my stovetop. Today, I’m excited to share my Chicken Chasseur recipe, or Easy French Braised Chicken, a dish that wraps you in a warm embrace of flavor and nostalgia. With just 45 minutes of prep, you can serve a restaurant-quality meal that is not only elegant but also incredibly family-friendly. The combination of tender chicken, earthy cremini mushrooms, and aromatic tarragon creates a sophisticated experience without the fuss. Plus, it’s a marvelous way to wave goodbye to takeout nights! Are you ready to impress your loved ones while keeping things simple? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why is Chicken Chasseur a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This Chicken Chasseur recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Restaurant-quality flavor: The rich blend of cremini mushrooms, shallots, and fresh tarragon guarantees a meal that feels indulgent without a hefty time commitment.
Crowd-pleaser: Family and friends will rave about this elegant dish, which transforms dinner into a special occasion.
Versatility: Feel free to swap the mushrooms or herbs based on your preferences, ensuring a personalized touch every time you make it.
Make-ahead friendly: This dish actually improves over time, so consider cooking it a day ahead for even richer flavors.
Try pairing it with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes to savor every drop of that delightful sauce!
Chicken Chasseur Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken – Bone-in, skin-on pieces enhance flavor; boneless is quicker to cook.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness; vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.
• Butter – Unsalted is best for controlling salt levels and creates a golden crust.
For the Sauce
• Cognac – Provides depth; bourbon can replace it, just reduce the simmer time.
• Dry White Wine – Balances flavor and adds acidity; use broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Chicken Broth – Use low-sodium for better health; homemade is always a treat.
For the Aromatics
• Cremini Mushrooms – Earthy and textural; can swap with shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
• Shallots – Adds a mild onion flavor; green or sweet onions can be used in a pinch.
• Fresh Tarragon – Imparts an aromatic note; dried tarragon works as a backup.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch – Thicken the sauce smoothly; mix with cold water to prevent clumping.
This Chicken Chasseur recipe will wrap your kitchen in the delightful aromas of French cuisine, creating a comforting meal that speaks volumes of care and quality.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Chasseur Recipe | Easy French Braised Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels, ensuring a crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step is crucial for flavor and browning. Set the chicken aside while you gather your other ingredients, allowing it to come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and starts to foam, carefully add the chicken skin-side down. Sear for about 8 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Turn the chicken over and cook for an additional 3 minutes, then remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped shallots and cremini mushrooms, sautéing for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking. The residual heat and tasty bits from the chicken will enhance the flavors of these aromatics, creating a beautiful base for your Chicken Chasseur recipe.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in 1/4 cup of cognac and 1/2 cup of dry white wine, using a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to reduce and the flavors to meld together. You’ll know it’s ready when the liquid has slightly thickened and the aroma is intoxicating.
Step 5: Braise the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, skin-side up. Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth, adding 1 tablespoon of fresh tarragon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F internally, becoming tender and juicy.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a warm plate. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce, allowing it to cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency.
Step 7: Serve the Dish
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the rich sauce. Plate the chicken, spooning the luscious sauce generously over each piece. Garnish the dish with extra fresh tarragon if desired, and enjoy your stunning Chicken Chasseur recipe alongside crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chasseur preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it in an airtight container for optimal freshness. The sautéed aromatics (shallots and mushrooms) can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing their flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply return the chicken and aromatics to the skillet, deglaze with cognac and wine, add the broth and tarragon, then braise for 20 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness of the Chicken Chasseur recipe with much less hassle!
Expert Tips for Chicken Chasseur
• Dry the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is patted dry to achieve that crispy skin during searing—this is key to a delightful Chicken Chasseur.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Adjust braising time based on chicken pieces; boneless cuts may only need around 12 minutes to stay juicy and flavorful.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce as it simmers. If it’s lacking depth, a pinch of salt or an extra sprinkle of tarragon can elevate it beautifully.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: The more fresh your ingredients, the better your Chicken Chasseur will taste. Tarragon, mushrooms, and shallots should be as fresh as possible for optimal flavor.
• Thicken Effectively: When mixing cornstarch, ensure it’s blended with cold water before adding it to the sauce to prevent clumping, ensuring a smooth Chicken Chasseur.
• Make-ahead Magic: Consider preparing the dish a day in advance! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making your mealtime simpler and more delicious.
What to Serve with Chicken Chasseur?
Imagine a cozy dinner where each bite is an echo of home, inviting everyone to gather around the table together.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth texture wonderfully absorbs the rich sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
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Crusty French Baguette: This classic pairing allows guests to scoop up every last drop of sauce, delivering an authentic French experience.
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Roasted Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring a fresh crunch, contrasting beautifully with the tenderness of the chicken.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice dish not only complements the Chicken Chasseur’s flavors but also adds a delightful nuttiness to the meal.
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Side Salad: A light salad of mixed greens tossed in a simple vinaigrette enhances freshness, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich dish.
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Soft Polenta: Creamy polenta lends a soft, comforting texture that harmonizes with the chicken’s warmth, making for a delightful pairing.
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White Wine: A glass of dry white wine echoes the one used in cooking, elevating the entire dining experience with its crisp acidity.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light yet indulgent treat ends the meal on a luxurious note, perfectly balancing out the savory main course.
Transform your meal into a delightful celebration with these thoughtful selections that complement your Chicken Chasseur recipe beautifully!
Chicken Chasseur Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to personalize your Chicken Chasseur recipe with these delightful twists that’ll unleash your creativity in the kitchen!
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Mushroom Swap: Replace cremini mushrooms with button mushrooms or shiitake for a different taste experience. Each variety brings its unique flavor and texture, ensuring you never get bored with the dish.
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Herb Alternatives: Use fresh parsley instead of tarragon for a refreshing take. The brightness of parsley beautifully complements the chicken and adds an entirely different herbaceous note.
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Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced carrots or peas into the braising process. Not only do they add color, but they also enhance the nutritional profile of this already comforting dish.
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Heat Level: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. It’s a simple addition that can elevate the dish with a touch of warmth, making it perfect for those who love a little heat.
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Richness Twist: Experiment with adding a splash of heavy cream at the end for a luxurious, creamy sauce. This will transform your Chicken Chasseur into an even more indulgent meal that delights the senses.
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Wine Variation: If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, replace the wine with additional chicken broth or even a splash of white grape juice. This keeps the dish family-friendly and just as flavorful, making it accessible for everyone.
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Cooking Method: Feel free to try making this dish in an Air Fryer Chicken for a quicker preparation. The result will still be tender and delicious while cutting down on cooking time.
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Flavor Enhancement: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce for a subtle tang. This not only adds depth but also gives the dish a lovely balance of flavors, tantalizing your taste buds.
Let your imagination run wild as you create your perfect Chicken Chasseur, crafted just for you and your loved ones!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Chasseur
Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Chasseur in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove to enjoy its rich flavors again.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze Chicken Chasseur in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Ensure it cools completely before sealing to maintain the best texture.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Make-Ahead Tips: This Chicken Chasseur recipe can be prepared a day ahead of time, great for busy weeknights. It actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully!
Chicken Chasseur Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Chasseur?
Absolutely! Using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces enhances the flavor significantly, creating that delicious savory richness. If you’re in a hurry, boneless chicken works well but be mindful of the cooking time, as it may cook faster.
How should I store my leftover Chicken Chasseur?
You can store any leftover Chicken Chasseur in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat to savor those delightful flavors once more—perfect for a quick and comforting meal!
Can I freeze Chicken Chasseur?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Chasseur! Just let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find that your sauce hasn’t thickened to your liking, don’t worry! Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering sauce while it cooks for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches a velvety consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Chasseur?
Absolutely! If someone has allergies, you can substitute the cognac with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. Additionally, ensure that you use low-sodium chicken broth to keep the dish heart-healthy. If you have pets, always avoid using any toxic ingredients such as onions or excess salt in your cooking.
What if I can’t find fresh tarragon?
No problem at all! While fresh tarragon brings a unique flavor to your Chicken Chasseur, you can use dried tarragon as a substitute. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount you would of fresh. If you prefer, parsley makes a delightful alternative, providing a fresh twist to the dish!
Savory Chicken Chasseur Recipe | Easy French Comfort at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to come to room temperature.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat, add chicken skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 8 minutes.
- Turn chicken over and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add shallots and mushrooms, sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Pour in cognac and dry white wine, scraping up browned bits, and simmer gently for 3 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet, pour in chicken broth and add tarragon, then simmer covered for 20 minutes.
- Remove chicken, mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir into sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Return chicken to sauce, coat and serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
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