Chicken Tarragon I
Chicken Tarragon I Recipe from France
Introduction
Chicken Tarragon is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the aromatic herb tarragon. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
History
The origins of Chicken Tarragon are not entirely clear, but tarragon is a popular herb in French cuisine. It is often used to flavor chicken dishes, and the combination of tarragon with chicken is a classic pairing.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) boneless chicken breast, cut into 1 inch cubes*
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 x 5.2 oz (147 g) package quick cooking chicken-flavored long-grain and wild rice, prepared according to package instructions
- 1 x 6 oz (170 g) jar sliced mushrooms, drained
- 0.5 cup dry white wine
- 1 tsp dried tarragon leaves
How to prepare
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken in hot oil over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes, turning to brown both sides.
- Add rice, mushrooms, wine, and tarragon. Simmer uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked.
Variations
- Substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast for a richer flavor.
- Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Use fresh tarragon instead of dried for a more intense flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cut the chicken into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Use a good quality dry white wine for the best flavor in this dish.
- Adjust the amount of tarragon to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Tarragon over a bed of cooked wild rice for a complete meal. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
Cooking Techniques
Searing the chicken before simmering helps to lock in the juices and develop flavor.
- Simmering the dish uncovered allows the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use chicken broth instead of white wine for a non-alcoholic version.
- Substitute dried tarragon with fresh tarragon, using three times the amount.
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.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with fresh tarragon leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve in a shallow bowl for an elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Chicken Tarragon with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. 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.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
Fats
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Proteins
- Protein: 25g
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A: 2%
- Vitamin C: 4%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 10%
Alergens
Contains: None
Summary
Chicken Tarragon is a balanced meal with a good amount of protein and healthy fats. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.
Summary
Chicken Tarragon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. With its flavorful combination of chicken, tarragon, and mushrooms, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Chicken Tarragon. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margot who lived in the countryside. Margot was a fantastic cook, and I always looked forward to trying out her delicious creations whenever I visited her.
On that particular day, Margot invited me into her kitchen to watch her prepare dinner. As she chopped vegetables and seasoned meat, the fragrant aroma of herbs filled the air. I couldn't help but be intrigued by the combination of flavors she was using.
"What are you making?" I asked, leaning in to get a closer look at the pot simmering on the stove.
"Oh, this is a family recipe for Chicken Tarragon," Margot replied with a smile. "It's a French dish that has been passed down through generations in my family. Would you like to learn how to make it?"
I eagerly nodded, excited at the prospect of adding a new recipe to my collection. Margot handed me a pen and a notepad, instructing me to take notes as she guided me through the steps of making Chicken Tarragon.
First, she explained the importance of using fresh tarragon in the dish. Tarragon, with its distinctive anise-like flavor, was the key ingredient that gave the dish its unique taste. Margot showed me how to strip the leaves from the stems and chop them finely, releasing the herb's aromatic oils.
Next, she demonstrated how to brown the chicken in a hot skillet, creating a flavorful base for the dish. As the chicken sizzled and the kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of seared meat, I couldn't wait to taste the final product.
Once the chicken was browned, Margot added shallots, garlic, and white wine to the pan, letting the ingredients meld together to form a rich sauce. The tarragon was then sprinkled over the chicken, infusing the dish with its distinctive flavor.
As the Chicken Tarragon simmered on the stove, I watched in awe as Margot transformed simple ingredients into a mouth-watering masterpiece. The dish was finally ready, and we sat down to enjoy our meal together.
With the first bite, I was transported to a culinary paradise. The tender chicken, bathed in a velvety sauce infused with the delicate flavors of tarragon, was a symphony of taste and texture. I savored each mouthful, marveling at how a few simple ingredients could come together to create such a delectable dish.
As I licked my plate clean, I knew that I had discovered a new favorite recipe. Margot's Chicken Tarragon would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would proudly serve to friends and family for years to come.
And so, thanks to my dear friend Margot, I added another cherished recipe to my collection. The memory of that warm summer day in the countryside, learning how to make Chicken Tarragon, will always hold a special place in my heart.
Categories
| Chicken Breast Recipes | French Meat Dishes | French Recipes | Long-grain Rice Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes | Mushroom Recipes | Tarragon Recipes | White Wine Recipes | Wild Rice Recipes |