If you are craving something that bursts with vibrant flavors and embodies the heart of Mediterranean cooking, this Chicken Provençal Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. The tender, juicy chicken thighs are bathed in a fragrant sauce filled with sun-kissed cherry tomatoes, briny olives, zesty lemon, and those irresistible herbes de Provence. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and soak in the warm, comforting essence of Provence right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Provençal Recipe relies on simple, yet essential ingredients that work in harmony to deliver layers of delightful taste, texture, and color. Each element brings its own magic, from the golden-browned chicken to the bright pop of olives and cherry tomatoes that create a vivid, mouthwatering sauce.
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juicy, flavorful meat that crisps beautifully on the outside.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
- 2 teaspoons herbes de Provence: A fragrant blend that gives this dish its signature French countryside aroma.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that golden sear and adds richness to the pan sauce.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Softens and sweetens while cooking, creating a lovely base for the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth and warmth that complements the herbs and tomatoes.
- ½ cup dry white wine: Lifts the flavors and deglazes the pan, capturing all those delicious browned bits.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (or 1 can), undrained: Bursting with sweetness and acidity, they form the heart of the sauce.
- ½ cup low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and infuses savory undertones.
- ½ cup green olives, pitted: Brings a salty, tangy contrast that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained: A punchy, briny kick that elevates this recipe to another level.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds bright, citrusy freshness just before serving.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Gives a pop of color and a gentle herbal finish.
How to Make Chicken Provençal Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and the aromatic herbes de Provence. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then carefully lay the chicken skin-side down. Allow it to brown until beautifully golden and crispy, about 6-7 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and texture, creating the perfect foundation for the dish. Once browned, set the chicken aside to rest briefly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them gently until they soften and turn translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Then add minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant, careful not to let it burn. This combination infuses the dish with a sweet and savory base that’s essential for those rich Provençal flavors.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Tomatoes
Pour in dry white wine into the hot skillet, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom. These caramelized pieces are magical flavor boosters! Once the wine has reduced slightly, introduce the undrained cherry tomatoes. Let them simmer and soften, breaking down gently to form a luscious, vibrant sauce that’s bursting with Mediterranean sunshine.
Step 4: Simmer the Chicken
Return your golden chicken thighs to the skillet nestled right into the sauce. Add chicken broth, green olives, capers, and a little more herbes de Provence for good measure. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover the pan, and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer allows the chicken to absorb those wonderful flavors, while the sauce thickens beautifully.
Step 5: Finish and Season
Once the chicken is cooked through and tender, sprinkle the zest of one lemon over the top to awaken the dish with fresh brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley right before serving to add a touch of herbal vibrancy and color.
How to Serve Chicken Provençal Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, adding a burst of green and a subtle herbal note that keeps the dish looking and tasting fresh. The lemon zest also acts as a garnish, cutting through the rich flavors with a lively citrus pop that awakens your palate.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Provençal Recipe pairs beautifully with plenty of options. A crusty baguette is ideal for mopping up that irresistible sauce. For something hearty, creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes soak up the juices perfectly. If you prefer a lighter touch, a bright green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette will balance the dish wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic yet elegant presentation, serve the chicken right from the skillet at the table. You can also plate it on large serving dishes with the sauce spooned generously over the top, then sprinkle with herbs and lemon zest. Adding a colorful side like roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the overall visual appeal and taste experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chicken Provençal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a perfect dish to enjoy again with minimal effort.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. You can keep it frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, covered, to keep the chicken tender and the sauce luscious. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally so it heats evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but bone-in skin-on thighs provide extra flavor and juiciness that really elevate this Chicken Provençal Recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly as boneless pieces cook faster.
What can I substitute for herbes de Provence if I don’t have it?
Herbes de Provence is a blend typically containing thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lavender. You can create your own by mixing these herbs or simply use thyme and rosemary for a similar aromatic profile.
Is it necessary to use white wine in this recipe?
While white wine adds wonderful depth and helps deglaze the pan, you can substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of white grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or stirring in some chopped fresh chili peppers to the sauce before simmering.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a dinner party?
Absolutely! You can brown the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then reheat everything together shortly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld even more beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Provençal Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who loves easy meals packed with soul and flavor. Its vibrant colors, comforting textures, and fragrant herbs make it a dish that delights both the eyes and the palate. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with friends or family—because recipes this good are meant to be enjoyed together.
Print
Chicken Provençal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 0 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Halal
Description
Chicken Provençal is a classic French dish featuring tender, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs simmered with aromatic herbs, garlic, olives, capers, and cherry tomatoes in a flavorful white wine sauce. This one-pan recipe blends rustic Provencal flavors with a rich, comforting sauce perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons herbes de Provence
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (1 can), undrained
- ½ cup low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup green olives, pitted
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown Chicken: Season chicken thighs generously with salt, black pepper, and herbes de Provence. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs skin-side down and brown on both sides until golden, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add thinly sliced onions and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Add Tomatoes: Pour in the dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen browned bits. Let the wine reduce slightly, then add cherry tomatoes with their juices. Cook until the tomatoes soften and start to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer Chicken: Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side up. Add chicken broth, pitted green olives, rinsed capers, and an extra pinch of herbes de Provence. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid or foil, and cook for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Finish and Serve: Uncover and sprinkle the dish with freshly grated lemon zest. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm alongside crusty baguette, pasta, creamy polenta, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy during cooking.
- Substitute dry white wine with non-alcoholic white grape juice or additional chicken broth if preferred.
- Ensure olives are pitted to avoid any unexpected bites.
- Herbes de Provence can be made at home by combining thyme, rosemary, oregano, marjoram, and lavender.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
