Chicken Niçoise

Chicken Niçoise Recipe - A French Delight

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Niçoise is a delicious and flavorful dish that originated in the French city of Nice. This dish features tender chicken cooked in a savory broth with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and olives. It is a perfect meal for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family.

History

The Chicken Niçoise recipe is inspired by the traditional Niçoise cuisine of the Provence region in France. Niçoise cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients, including olives, garlic, and herbs. This dish is a modern twist on the classic Niçoise salad, incorporating chicken as the main protein.

Ingredients

4 boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1.25 cup non-fat chicken broth
3 cloves of garlic, chopped
0.5 cup small white onions
1 tbsp italian seasoning
2 medium green bell peppers, seeded and sliced
6 kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
cooked rice or noodles (optional)

How to prepare

Remove excess fat from the chicken.
In a large skillet, bring 0.25 cup of broth to a boil. Add the chicken and cook until browned on each side.
Remove the chicken and set it aside.
To the skillet, add garlic, onions, seasoning, bell peppers, olives, and the remaining broth. Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.
Return the chicken to the skillet and reduce the heat to medium.
Cook for 15 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center of the thickest cut.
Serve with rice or noodles (optional).

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Add cherry tomatoes or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of olives, such as green olives or mixed olives, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to remove excess fat from the chicken before cooking to ensure a lean and healthy dish.

- Browning the chicken before adding it back to the skillet helps to seal in the juices and create a delicious crust.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less garlic, onions, or olives.

- Serve the Chicken Niçoise with rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chicken Niçoise with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and nutritious meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken before adding it back to the skillet helps to seal in the juices and create a delicious crust.

- Simmering the chicken in broth with garlic, onions, and bell peppers infuses the dish with rich flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.

- Substitute green bell peppers with red or yellow bell peppers for a pop of color.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Chicken Niçoise ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Chicken Niçoise with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a vibrant and appetizing presentation. Serve it in a shallow bowl or on a platter for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Chicken Niçoise with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the savory flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, serve it with sparkling water or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Chicken Niçoise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 45% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Chicken Niçoise is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in carbohydrates and saturated fats, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chicken Niçoise is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family. With its tender chicken, savory broth, and flavorful vegetables, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day in the beautiful city of Nice, France. I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the bustling outdoor market, taking in all the sights and sounds of the local vendors selling their fresh produce and delectable treats. As I meandered through the rows of colorful stalls, I stumbled upon a small, unassuming booth tucked away in a corner.

Curious, I approached the booth and was greeted by a kind older woman who was busy cooking up a storm. The tantalizing aroma of herbs and spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. I watched as she expertly prepared a dish that looked absolutely divine - Chicken Niçoise. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with the woman and asked her about the recipe.

She smiled warmly and told me that Chicken Niçoise was a traditional dish from the region, made with tender chicken, ripe tomatoes, olives, and fragrant herbs. She explained that the key to the dish was in the quality of the ingredients and the slow cooking process, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. I was captivated by her passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving the culinary traditions of her homeland.

I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make Chicken Niçoise for myself. The woman graciously agreed to share her recipe with me, passing down the knowledge that had been handed down through generations in her family. I scribbled down the ingredients and instructions in my notebook, eager to try my hand at creating this mouthwatering dish in my own kitchen.

As I returned home from my trip to Nice, I couldn't wait to put my newfound recipe to the test. I gathered all the ingredients I needed - a plump chicken, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, fresh herbs, and a splash of white wine. I marinated the chicken in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and herbs, allowing the flavors to infuse and deepen.

In a large skillet, I gently browned the chicken pieces until they were golden and crispy, releasing a tantalizing aroma that filled my kitchen. I then added the tomatoes, olives, and white wine to the pan, allowing the ingredients to simmer and meld together into a rich, flavorful sauce.

As the Chicken Niçoise cooked, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction wash over me. I had taken a traditional recipe from a far-off land and made it my own, infusing it with my own love and passion for cooking. When I finally plated the dish and took my first bite, I was transported back to that bustling market in Nice, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a vibrant culinary tradition.

Since that fateful day in Nice, Chicken Niçoise has become a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I have shared it with friends and family, passing down the knowledge and tradition that was shared with me by that kind woman at the market. Every time I make Chicken Niçoise, I am reminded of the power of food to connect us to our past, our heritage, and the world around us.

And so, as I sit down to enjoy a delicious plate of Chicken Niçoise, I am grateful for the serendipitous moment that brought this recipe into my life. It is a reminder that sometimes the most precious treasures can be found in the most unexpected of places, waiting to be discovered and shared with those we love.