Chicken à la Bonne Femme

Chicken à la Bonne Femme Recipe from France | Ingredients: Chicken, Mushrooms, Brandy, and More

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken à la Bonne Femme is a classic French dish that translates to "chicken in the good woman's style." This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy sauce, served over a bed of hot cooked rice. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

History

The origins of Chicken à la Bonne Femme are a bit murky, but it is believed to have originated in France, where it was a popular dish among home cooks. The name "Bonne Femme" refers to the simple, rustic style of cooking that is characteristic of French home cooking. This dish was traditionally made with simple ingredients that were readily available in the pantry, making it a practical and delicious meal for families.

Ingredients

3 chicken breasts, split in half (about 2.5 lb or 1.13 kg)
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2 tbsp butter or margarine
0.5 cup chopped onion
1 x 4 oz or 113 g can sliced mushrooms (drained; reserve liquid)
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp flour
0.25 cup tomato paste
1.5 cup chicken broth
0.5 cup dry white wine
0.5 cup brandy
0.5 cup sour cream
3 cup hot cooked rice
chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to prepare

Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
Melt the butter in a large skillet.
Cook the chicken in the butter until it turns golden brown.
Push the chicken to one side of the skillet.
Add the onion, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet.
Continue cooking until the onion becomes tender.
Add the flour.
Stir in the tomato paste, broth, wine, brandy, and mushroom liquid.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken pieces.
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken becomes tender.
Stir in the sour cream and serve over rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots to the sauce for extra vegetables.
Use white wine vinegar or chicken broth instead of brandy for a non-alcoholic version of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Cooking the chicken until it is golden brown adds depth and richness to the sauce.

- Stirring constantly while adding the flour and other ingredients helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce.

- Simmering the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender.

- Stirring in the sour cream at the end adds a creamy and tangy finish to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken à la Bonne Femme over hot cooked rice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before simmering it in the sauce adds depth of flavor.

- Simmering the chicken in the sauce allows it to become tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce.

- Stirring in the sour cream at the end adds a creamy and tangy finish to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter or olive oil instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute button mushrooms for the canned sliced mushrooms.

- Use Greek yogurt or coconut cream instead of sour cream for a dairy-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the chicken according to the recipe instructions.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken à la Bonne Femme in a shallow bowl over a bed of hot cooked rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken à la Bonne Femme with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chicken à la Bonne Femme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken à la Bonne Femme contains approximately 380 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken à la Bonne Femme contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken à la Bonne Femme contains approximately 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken à la Bonne Femme contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken à la Bonne Femme is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and alcohol (brandy), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Chicken à la Bonne Femme is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Chicken à la Bonne Femme is a classic French dish that features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy sauce. This comforting and satisfying meal is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Serve it over hot cooked rice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a delicious and elegant presentation. Enjoy this delicious dish with a glass of white wine and a side of crusty bread for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was known in our town for her exquisite culinary skills, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together. On that particular day, as I entered her cozy kitchen, a tantalizing aroma greeted me. Mrs. Jenkins was busy at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling goodness.

"Ah, Grace, you're just in time!" she exclaimed, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I'm making my famous Chicken à la Bonne Femme today. You simply must try it!"

I watched in awe as Mrs. Jenkins effortlessly seasoned the chicken with herbs and spices, then sautéed it to perfection in a skillet. The kitchen was filled with the delightful scent of garlic, onions, and mushrooms. My mouth watered as she added a splash of white wine and chicken broth to the pan, creating a luscious sauce that coated the tender chicken pieces.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Mrs. Jenkins shared the story behind the recipe. She had learned to make Chicken à la Bonne Femme from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. It was a dish that held a special place in her heart, reminding her of cherished family gatherings and celebrations.

Inspired by Mrs. Jenkins' passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving family traditions, I knew that I had to learn how to make Chicken à la Bonne Femme myself. She graciously agreed to teach me, guiding me through each step with patience and expertise. Together, we cooked up a delicious meal that would become a staple in my own recipe collection.

Over the years, I have perfected the art of making Chicken à la Bonne Femme, adding my own personal touch to the dish. The flavors of tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and aromatic herbs never fail to delight my family and friends. Each time I prepare this recipe, I am transported back to that summer day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, where my love for cooking was sparked.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to discover the magic of Chicken à la Bonne Femme, I am grateful for the countless recipes and culinary wisdom that have been passed down to me. From my grandmother's hearty stews to Mrs. Jenkins' elegant dishes, each recipe tells a story and carries with it a rich history of tradition and love.

In sharing the recipe for Chicken à la Bonne Femme with you, dear reader, I hope to inspire you to create your own culinary memories and to embrace the joy of cooking. May this dish bring you as much happiness and fulfillment as it has brought me, and may you always remember the stories behind the recipes that grace your table. Bon appétit!