Imagine the comforting aroma of a rustic French kitchen wafting through your home as you prepare a delightful "Country French Chicken Skillet." This one-pan wonder not only boasts succulent chicken thighs but also a medley of vibrant vegetables, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. In just 35 minutes, you can transport your taste buds to the heart of France, impressing family and friends alike with minimal effort. Ready to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this exquisite recipe that promises to become a weeknight favorite!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by patting chicken thighs dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once oil is shimmering, carefully place chicken thighs skin-side down to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes until skin is deeply golden and crisp, then flip and cook opposite side for an additional 4-5 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add sliced onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté vegetables for 3-4 minutes until onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Add sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing mushrooms to release their moisture and brown slightly.
- Sprinkle fresh thyme over vegetables and pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to develop deep flavor.
- Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the vegetable mixture. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove lid, increase heat to reduce sauce if desired, and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, spooning vegetables and pan sauce over chicken thighs. Optionally garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
Tips
- Patience is Key: Allow the chicken thighs to sear undisturbed for the recommended time to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. Resist the urge to flip too soon!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans can make delightful additions.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme elevates the dish's flavor, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley for a unique twist.
- Check Your Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Sauce It Up: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once it's cooked, and let the broth simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
- Serve with Style: This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 242kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 93mg
