Chicken Provencal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Provencal is a flavorful and rustic dish inspired by the Mediterranean. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are seared to golden perfection and roasted with aromatic shallots, garlic, juicy tomatoes, sweet dates, briny olives, and fresh herbs. This one-pan meal is a comforting combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, with a deliciously aromatic sauce to soak into rice or noodles. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 1 ½ tablespoons freshly ground pepper

• 8 medium-sized shallots, peeled and halved

• 8-10 garlic cloves, crushed and peeled

• 1 tablespoon Herbs de Provence

• 1 ½ cups grape tomatoes

• ¾ cup chopped dates

• 1 cup green olives

• 5-6 sprigs of fresh thyme

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 1 cup chicken broth (or white grape juice as an alternative)

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

Directions

Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper and set them aside to rest.

Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep-sided skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the chicken to the pan, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

3. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes to brown the other side.

4. Transfer the chicken to a platter and keep warm.

Sauté Shallots and Garlic

1. Add the shallots and garlic to the same pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add the Other Ingredients

1. Remove the pan from heat and arrange the seared chicken thighs back in the pan.

2. Add the tomatoes, dates, olives, lemon slices, and thyme sprigs. Pour in the chicken broth (or white grape juice).

Roast the Chicken

1. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C).

2. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F.

Serve

1. Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables and sauce, over noodles or rice for a cozy, flavorful meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add more vegetables: You can add other Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers to the dish for added texture and flavor.

• Sweetness variation: If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the number of dates or replace them with figs for a subtler sweetness.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning or the sauce for an extra layer of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in, skin-on thighs offer more flavor and moisture, but breasts can be used for a lighter option.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.

3. Can I use a different type of olive?

If you don’t have green olives, you can use Kalamata olives or black olives for a different flavor profile.

4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme?

Yes, you can use dried thyme if fresh is unavailable. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of the sprigs.

5. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop instead of roasting in the oven?

Yes, you can simmer the chicken on the stovetop in a covered pan for about 30 minutes, until fully cooked. However, roasting in the oven enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken.

6. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

7. Can I use other fruits besides dates?

Yes, you can substitute dates with other dried fruits like apricots, figs, or raisins. Each will bring its own unique sweetness to the dish.

8. What should I serve with Chicken Provencal?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a green salad or roasted vegetables.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Chicken Provencal is a delightful, one-pan meal that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. The combination of tender chicken, sweet dates, savory olives, and fresh herbs in a flavorful broth makes for a comforting and satisfying dish. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!

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