Chicken Provencal Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Provencal is a rustic French dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It features tender chicken pieces simmered with tomatoes, olives, garlic, and aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary. This one-pan meal is both elegant and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make it a timeless classic in French cuisine.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred)olive oilgarliccloves (whole or minced)cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes)kalamata or black olivescapersdry white wineherbes de Provencefresh thymefresh rosemarysaltblack pepper

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of herbes de Provence.

In a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Sear the chicken pieces skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up any brown bits.

Add tomatoes, olives, and capers to the pan and stir to combine.

Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it among the tomatoes and olives.

Add sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary on top.

Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crisp.

Remove herbs before serving and spoon the sauce over the chicken.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for a quicker cook time.

Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.

Swap white wine for chicken broth if preferred.

Stir in a few anchovy fillets for a deeper umami flavor.

Serve over couscous, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

storage/reheating

Store Chicken Provencal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is herbes de Provence?

It’s a dried herb blend typically including thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lavender, common in southern French cooking.

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes, but they may cook faster and risk drying out, so monitor closely.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Do I need to remove the chicken skin?

No, the skin adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Can I cook this on the stovetop only?

Yes, simmer covered for 30–40 minutes, but oven roasting enhances the flavor.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure your wine and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What wine pairs best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé complements the dish beautifully.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes, small potatoes can be added to roast with the chicken for a heartier meal.

Does this dish freeze well?

Yes, Chicken Provencal freezes beautifully for future meals.

Conclusion

Chicken Provencal is a flavorful, aromatic dish that captures the essence of southern France in every bite. With its blend of herbs, juicy chicken, and savory vegetables, it’s as comforting as it is impressive. Whether served at a casual dinner or a formal gathering, this classic recipe is sure to please and inspire your inner chef.

Print