Imagine transporting yourself to the rolling countryside of France with just one skillet and a handful of simple ingredients. This French Country Sauté Chicken is not just a meal—it's a flavor-packed adventure that brings the rustic elegance of provincial cooking directly to your dining table. With golden-crisp chicken, tender mushrooms, and a sauce that whispers of French culinary traditions, this recipe promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 sliced onion, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin-side down if they have skin. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs over and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The chicken should be browned on both sides.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.
- Pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth and add the 1 teaspoon of thyme. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the mushroom and onion mixture. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the French Country Sauté Chicken hot, spooning the mushroom and onion mixture over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for this recipe as they retain more moisture and develop a crispier exterior.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your skillet is at the right heat—medium-high allows for perfect browning without burning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Sear chicken in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that beautiful golden color.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- Internal Temperature is Key: Always check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices and maintain tenderness.
- Sauce Enhancement: For an extra layer of flavor, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine before adding chicken broth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
