Chicken Chasseur

Chicken Chasseur is a classic French dish that brings together succulent chicken and earthy mushrooms in a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests with your culinary skills. With its blend of fresh herbs, apple juice, and tomatoes, Chicken Chasseur stands out as a hearty yet elegant meal that suits various palates and occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and a tangy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings; it fits any occasion seamlessly.
• Comforting Meal: Hearty and satisfying, this dish warms the soul and pleases everyone at the table.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the sauce and garnishes make for an appealing platter.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Chicken Chasseur, having the right tools on hand will make the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents burning while sautéing.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Classic French dish featuring chicken and mushrooms in a rich sauce with apple juice, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

For the Chicken

• 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound cremini mushrooms
• ¼ cup shallots, diced
• 1½ tablespoons garlic, minced
• ½ cup apple juice
• ½ cup white apple vinegar
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 1½ cups chicken stock
• ½ cup beef stock
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Chasseur

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and black pepper. If desired, prepare mashed potatoes to serve alongside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of butter and olive oil. Cook the seasoned chicken for about 8 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add remaining butter. Sauté cremini mushrooms for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften. Then add shallots and garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Pour in apple juice followed by white apple vinegar. Allow it to reduce slightly before adding diced Roma tomatoes, chicken stock, beef stock, and sour cream. Simmer until thickened.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Stir in fresh tarragon along with any remaining butter. Return the chicken pieces to the pan to coat them with the sauce. Garnish with finely chopped parsley before serving.

This delightful Chicken Chasseur is guaranteed to impress your guests while providing a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare!

How to Serve Chicken Chasseur

Serving Chicken Chasseur can elevate your dining experience, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. The rich flavors of the chicken and mushrooms pair well with various sides and garnishes.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes absorb the savory sauce, creating a comforting dish.

Over Rice

• Serve Chicken Chasseur on a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious juices.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked crusty bread is ideal for dipping into the sauce, enhancing the meal’s rustic feel.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad with a vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with chopped parsley or tarragon not only adds color but enhances the flavor profile.

Paired with Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables provide a nutritious balance to this hearty meal.

How to Perfect Chicken Chasseur

To create an impeccable Chicken Chasseur, consider these essential tips that ensure rich flavors and perfect texture.

• Use high-quality chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken for better flavor and texture.
• Brown the chicken well: Ensure you sear the chicken until golden brown for added depth of flavor.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until thickened; this develops richer flavors.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Rest your chicken: Letting the chicken rest before serving helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Chasseur

Complementing Chicken Chasseur with delightful side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Polenta: Creamy polenta pairs well with Chicken Chasseur, enhancing its rustic charm.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds offer a delightful crunch.
5. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad with herbs provides a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish.
6. Ratatouille: This classic French vegetable dish complements the flavors of Chicken Chasseur beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Chasseur, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch for.

• Overcooking the chicken: Make sure to monitor the cooking time; overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
• Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh tarragon and parsley elevate the dish’s flavor. Don’t substitute dried herbs as they lack the same potency.
• Not deglazing the pan: Failing to deglaze can result in missed flavors. After cooking chicken, add apple juice to lift those flavorful bits stuck in the pan.
• Using low-quality stock: Quality stock impacts the sauce’s richness. Always choose good-quality chicken and beef stock for the best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. Sometimes, it may need a pinch of salt or pepper for balance.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Chasseur in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Chicken Chasseur

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It’s best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Chicken Chasseur

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place covered dish in oven and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly. Add a splash of chicken stock if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Chasseur?

Chicken Chasseur is a classic French dish featuring chicken cooked in a rich sauce made with mushrooms, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. It’s often referred to as Hunter’s Chicken.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While Chicken Chasseur traditionally uses chicken, you can experiment with rabbit or even pork for different flavors.

How do I make Chicken Chasseur gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that your stocks and tomato paste are labeled gluten-free. You can also thicken the sauce using cornstarch instead of flour.

What side dishes pair well with Chicken Chasseur?

Chicken Chasseur goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Chasseur is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Its rich flavors and versatility allow for plenty of customization; feel free to add seasonal vegetables or swap herbs according to your taste. Don’t hesitate—try making this French classic today!

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Chicken Chasseur

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Chicken Chasseur, also known as “Hunter’s Chicken,” is a classic French dish that layers tender chicken with earthy mushrooms in a luscious, tangy sauce. This meal is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to elegant gatherings, thanks to its rich flavors and impressive presentation. Enhanced with fresh herbs, apple juice, and ripe tomatoes, Chicken Chasseur is both hearty and sophisticated. With simple preparation steps, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a truly comforting experience.

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Ingredients

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• 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound cremini mushrooms
• ¼ cup shallots
• 1½ tablespoons garlic
• ½ cup apple juice
• ½ cup white apple vinegar
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 Roma tomatoes
• 1½ cups chicken stock
• ½ cup beef stock
• ¼ cup sour cream
• Fresh tarragon and parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. If desired, prepare mashed potatoes.
2. In a heavy skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 8 minutes each). Remove from skillet and keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining butter and sauté mushrooms for about 3 minutes. Add shallots and garlic; cook until fragrant.
4. Pour in apple juice and white vinegar; allow to reduce slightly. Add diced tomatoes, chicken stock, beef stock, and sour cream. Simmer until thickened.
5. Stir in tarragon and any remaining butter. Return chicken to skillet to coat with sauce; garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (200g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 115mg