Chicken Basquaise

Chicken Basquaise Recipe - A French Delight

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Basquaise is a flavorful and hearty dish that originates from the Basque region of France. This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich tomato and pepper sauce, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. It is a perfect meal for a cozy dinner with family and friends.

History

Chicken Basquaise is a traditional Basque dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The Basque people are known for their love of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, and this dish is a perfect example of their culinary expertise. The combination of chicken, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please any palate.

Ingredients

6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
0.5 tsp dried thyme
0.25 tsp dried rosemary
1.25 lb (567 g) red and green peppers, sliced
a pinch of cayenne
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 lb (454 g) tomatoes, cored, peeled, seeded and chopped
0.25 cup dry white wine or 0.25 cup liquid from canned tomatoes
2 tsp capers, optional
freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Lightly sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat in a large frying pan.
Cook the chicken for about 2 minutes until lightly browned on each side.
Remove the chicken from the pan.
Lower the heat to medium.
Add the onions and herbs to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
Add the peppers and cook for about 10 minutes more, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the cayenne and add salt and pepper to taste.
Add the garlic and tomatoes, then stir in the white wine.
Cover and cook for 10 minutes more.
Return the chicken to the pan.
Cover and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, turning the chicken once or twice, until it is cooked through.
Remove the chicken to a serving platter.
Stir the capers into the sauce, if desired.
If the sauce is thin, boil over high heat until reduced.
Taste and adjust the seasoning.
Spoon the sauce over the chicken and serve.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms. You can also substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for the chicken breasts for a different flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Be sure to cook the peppers and onions until they are softened to release their natural sweetness and flavor.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences - add more for a spicier dish or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

- For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan while cooking.

- To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Basquaise with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal. A side salad or steamed vegetables would also complement this dish nicely.

Cooking Techniques

The key to a successful Chicken Basquaise is to cook the chicken until it is tender and juicy, and the vegetables until they are soft and flavorful. Be sure to stir the ingredients often to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. You can also use chicken broth instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic version of this dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the sauce for Chicken Basquaise ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the chicken as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Chicken Basquaise with fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it in a large serving dish or individual plates for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Basquaise pairs well with a light and fruity red wine such as a Beaujolais or a Spanish Rioja. A crisp green salad or a side of roasted potatoes would also complement this dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chicken Basquaise 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

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

10g per serving

Proteins

30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Chicken Basquaise is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy option for a satisfying dinner.

Summary

- Chicken Basquaise is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With its flavorful tomato and pepper sauce and tender chicken breasts, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this traditional Basque recipe with your loved ones for a memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Chicken Basquaise many years ago. It was during a summer vacation in the Basque region of France, where I had the pleasure of experiencing the rich culinary traditions of the area. The flavors and aromas that filled the air were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I was determined to learn as much as I could about the local cuisine.

One evening, while dining at a charming little bistro tucked away in the cobblestone streets of a small village, I was served a dish that would forever change my perspective on cooking. The chicken was tender and juicy, smothered in a savory tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and a hint of spice. It was a dish that spoke to my soul, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to recreate it in my own kitchen.

I struck up a conversation with the chef, a kind and generous man who was more than happy to share his recipe with me. He explained that Chicken Basquaise is a traditional dish from the Basque region, made with fresh ingredients and a lot of love. He walked me through the steps, from marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, to sautéing the vegetables and simmering everything together in a rich tomato sauce.

I scribbled down every detail, making sure not to miss a single ingredient or technique. I wanted to capture the essence of this dish and bring a little piece of the Basque region back home with me. As I sat there, listening to the chef's stories and absorbing his wisdom, I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in putting my newfound knowledge to good use. I gathered all the ingredients, taking care to choose the freshest produce and highest quality chicken I could find. I marinated the chicken as instructed, allowing the flavors to meld and develop into something truly special.

As I sautéed the vegetables in a hot skillet, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of garlic and peppers. The sizzle of the pan and the vibrant colors of the ingredients brought me right back to that quaint little bistro in the Basque region, where I first fell in love with this dish.

I added the marinated chicken to the skillet, watching as it browned and caramelized to perfection. The tomato sauce bubbled and simmered, infusing the dish with a rich and hearty flavor that was simply irresistible. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

When the Chicken Basquaise was finally ready, I plated it with care, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. The colors and textures of the dish were a work of art, a testament to the time and effort I had put into perfecting the recipe.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that magical evening in the Basque region, where I first discovered the joys of Chicken Basquaise. The flavors danced on my palate, each bite more delicious than the last. I savored every moment, relishing in the memories and experiences that had led me to this moment.

Since that fateful day, Chicken Basquaise has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I turn to time and time again when I want to recreate the magic of that summer vacation. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition and love that I have poured into perfecting this dish.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that brought me to this point, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have inspired me along the way. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about embracing the culture and traditions that give each dish its unique flavor and soul.

I am forever grateful for the chef who shared his recipe with me, and for the Basque region that opened my eyes to a whole new world of culinary delights. Chicken Basquaise will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brings into my life.