Description
Classic french chicken casserole combines hearty ingredients from Provence with rustic cooking techniques. Layers of tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and rich sauce invite home cooks to savor authentic French culinary traditions.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 chicken thighs or chicken breasts
Vegetables:
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 onions, diced
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) white wine
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C), ensuring optimal cooking temperature for the casserole.
- Select a large oven-safe casserole dish and warm olive oil over medium heat, creating a perfect searing surface.
- Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot oil, developing a rich golden-brown exterior on both sides. Transfer browned chicken to a temporary plate.
- In the same fragrant pan, introduce chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and cubed potatoes, gently sautéing until they begin to soften and release their aromatic qualities.
- Deglaze the dish with white wine, using a wooden spoon to liberate the flavorful caramelized bits clinging to the bottom of the pan.
- Pour in chicken broth, sprinkle thyme and bay leaves, then season with salt and pepper. Carefully nestle the seared chicken back into the vegetable-liquid mixture.
- Securely cover the casserole dish and transfer to the preheated oven, allowing the ingredients to slowly meld and develop complex flavors for 45-50 minutes.
- Once chicken is thoroughly cooked and vegetables reach a tender consistency, remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped herbs to enhance the visual appeal and add a final layer of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Customize protein by swapping chicken for turkey, duck, or plant-based alternatives to suit different dietary preferences.
- Enhance flavor depth by marinating chicken in herbs and white wine for 30 minutes before cooking, allowing ingredients to absorb rich, complex tastes.
- Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium chicken broth and controlling salt quantity, making the dish heart-friendly without compromising deliciousness.
- Create a gluten-free version by ensuring all ingredients like broth and wine are certified gluten-free, perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg