Chicken Chasseur

Chicken Chasseur Recipe | French Cuisine

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Chasseur, also known as Hunter's Chicken, is a classic French dish that features tender chicken cooked in a flavorful sauce with mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs. This dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

History

Chicken Chasseur has its origins in French cuisine and is believed to have been created by French hunters who would cook their freshly caught game with mushrooms, tomatoes, and herbs. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chicken as the main protein, making it a popular dish in French households and restaurants.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of boned and skinned chicken breast strips
0.33 cup of cornstarch
1 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of thyme
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
2 tbsp of butter or margarine
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 cup of sliced green onions
1 can (8 oz or 227 g) of sliced mushrooms, drained
0.5 tsp of tarragon
1.5 cups of chicken broth
0.25 cup of dry sherry
3 fresh tomatoes, peeled and cut into eighths
3 cups of hot cooked rice
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to prepare

Dredge the chicken in a mixture of cornstarch, salt, thyme, and pepper.
Cook the chicken in a large skillet with butter and oil over medium heat until it turns brown on all sides.
Stir in the onions and mushrooms and continue cooking for 2 minutes.
Add tarragon, broth, and sherry, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in the tomatoes, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Serve the dish over hot rice.
Garnish with parsley.

Variations

Substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Add a splash of white wine or brandy for an extra depth of flavor.
Include additional vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added texture and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to properly dredge the chicken in the cornstarch mixture to ensure a crispy and flavorful coating.

- Use a combination of butter and oil for cooking the chicken to achieve a rich and savory flavor.

- Be sure to simmer the dish covered to allow the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through properly.

- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Chasseur over hot cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a complete and filling meal. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Dredging the chicken in cornstarch helps to create a crispy coating and thickens the sauce.

- Simmering the dish covered allows the flavors to develop and the chicken to cook through gently.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a healthier option.

- Substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones are not available.

- Replace dry sherry with chicken broth or white wine vinegar for a non-alcoholic alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months for future meals.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Chasseur in a shallow bowl over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Pair with a glass of white wine for a complete dining experience.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Chasseur with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the rich flavors of the dish. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread is also a great accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Vitamin C: 15mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy (butter)

Summary

Chicken Chasseur is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed as part of a well-rounded diet.

Summary

Chicken Chasseur is a classic French dish that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy this comforting meal with loved ones for a satisfying and delicious dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Chicken Chasseur. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Isabelle in her quaint little cottage in the French countryside. Isabelle was a wonderful cook, and she had graciously invited me to join her in the kitchen as she prepared one of her favorite dishes.

As we gathered the ingredients and began to chop vegetables and season the chicken, Isabelle shared with me the history of Chicken Chasseur. She explained that it was a traditional French dish that originated in the 16th century, when hunters would return from the woods with fresh game to cook in a rich and flavorful sauce.

Isabelle had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She spoke fondly of her memories of cooking with her grandmother in the kitchen, learning the secrets and techniques that made her dishes so delicious.

As we worked together in the kitchen, I watched Isabelle with admiration as she deftly sautéed the chicken in butter and herbs, creating a mouthwatering aroma that filled the cottage. She added tomatoes, mushrooms, and white wine to the pan, letting the ingredients simmer and meld together to create a savory sauce that would coat the chicken perfectly.

I was mesmerized by Isabelle's skill and passion for cooking, and I knew that I wanted to learn how to make Chicken Chasseur myself. As we sat down to enjoy the meal together, I savored every bite, savoring the flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds.

After my visit with Isabelle, I returned home with a newfound determination to master the art of Chicken Chasseur. I poured over cookbooks and searched online for recipes, trying different variations and experimenting with different ingredients until I found the perfect combination of flavors.

I practiced making Chicken Chasseur for my family and friends, receiving rave reviews and compliments on my culinary skills. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment each time I served the dish, knowing that I had learned from the best and had put my own spin on a classic recipe.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe for Chicken Chasseur, adding my own touches and adaptations to suit my taste. I have shared the recipe with my children and grandchildren, passing down the tradition of cooking and creating delicious meals to the next generation.

As I reflect on my journey to learn how to make Chicken Chasseur, I am grateful for the memories and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I am reminded of Isabelle and her warm hospitality, her passion for cooking, and her generous spirit in sharing her knowledge and love of food with others.

I may have learned how to make Chicken Chasseur from Isabelle, but it is the memories and moments we shared together in the kitchen that I will always cherish and hold dear in my heart. Cooking is more than just following a recipe – it is a way to connect with others, to create something beautiful and delicious, and to celebrate the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. And for that, I am forever grateful.