Name: Savory Chicken Provençal: Your Ultimate Cozy Dinner Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 8 thighs chicken (bone-in and skin-on); salt and pepper (to taste); 2 teaspoons herbes de Provence (Classic French herb mix; a substitute could include thyme, rosemary, and oregano.); 2 tablespoons olive oil (Ideal for sautéing and adding richness to the dish.); 1 large onion (thinly sliced) (Adds a sweet and aromatic base when sautéed.); 4 cloves garlic (minced) (Provides a robust garlic aroma that enriches the sauce.); ½ cup dry white wine (Adds depth and acidity; for non-alcoholic use chicken broth with lemon juice.); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (These sweet and juicy beauties add acidity and texture.); ½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added) (Keeps the chicken moist while braising.); ½ cup green olives (pitted) (Infuses brininess that complements the sauce beautifully.); 2 tablespoons capers (rinsed and drained) (Contributes a burst of tartness to enhance flavor.); 1 lemon (zest) (Brightens the dish and adds a fresh touch.); Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish) (Adds a pop of color and freshness at serving.)

As I closed my eyes, the scent of garlic sizzling in olive oil whisked me away to a sun-kissed terrace in Provence. Nothing beats the delightful comfort of Chicken Provençal, a rustic French dish that elegantly marries golden chicken thighs with sweet cherry tomatoes and briny olives in a rich white wine sauce. This recipe is a true lifesaver, transforming simple ingredients into a spectacular meal that sings with flavor. With minimal effort required, it’s the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights or cozy weekend get-togethers. Plus, it’s delicious enough to impress friends without leaving you stressed! Are you ready to bring a taste of the French countryside into your kitchen?

Why is Chicken Provençal a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for home cooks of any level.

Rich Flavor: The delicious blend of savory chicken, aromatic garlic, and tangy olives creates an irresistible taste that transports you straight to the heart of Provence.

Versatile Dish: Serve it with buttered noodles, crusty bread, or even a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Time-Saving: With just 30 minutes of simmering, you can whip up a gourmet dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, Chicken Provençal always impresses and leaves everyone wanting seconds!

For another crowd-pleaser, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken that combines rich flavors and comfort.

Chicken Provençal Ingredients

• Discover the simple yet flavorful ingredients that make this rustic dish a must!

For the Chicken

8 chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on) – Provides rich flavor and moisture; for a lighter option, swap in chicken breasts, but watch for drying.

For Seasoning

Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
2 teaspoons herbes de Provence – This classic French herb mix brings fragrant flavors typical of Provence; a substitute could include thyme, rosemary, and oregano.

For Cooking

2 tablespoons olive oil – Ideal for sautéing and adding richness to the dish.
1 large onion (thinly sliced) – Adds a sweet and aromatic base when sautéed.
4 cloves garlic (minced) – Provides a robust garlic aroma that enriches the sauce.

For the Sauce

½ cup dry white wine – Adds depth and acidity; for a non-alcoholic option, use chicken broth with lemon juice instead.
2 cups cherry tomatoes (or 1 can) – These sweet and juicy beauties add acidity and texture.
½ cup chicken broth (low sodium or no sodium added) – Keeps the chicken moist while braising.
½ cup green olives (pitted) – Infuses brininess that complements the sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons capers (rinsed and drained) – Contributes a burst of tartness to enhance flavor.
Zest of 1 lemon – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh touch.
Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness at serving.

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients for this heartwarming Chicken Provençal, let’s step into the kitchen and bring a slice of Provence to your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Provençal

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and herbes de Provence, ensuring the flavors will penetrate the meat. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sear Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip each thigh and brown the other side for an additional 5 minutes before removing them and setting aside.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion, stirring frequently. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and lightly caramelized, releasing its sweet aroma. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Deglaze
Pour in the ½ cup of dry white wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. This process adds depth to your Chicken Provençal sauce and takes about 1-2 minutes as the wine simmers and reduces slightly.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes
Stir in the 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, cooking them until they begin to soften and burst, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Their juices will mix with the wine, helping to create a beautiful sauce that enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the tomatoes. Then, pour in ½ cup of chicken broth, and add the olives, capers, and any remaining herbes de Provence, ensuring everything is well-distributed in the pan.

Step 7: Simmer
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low, letting the Chicken Provençal simmer gently for 25-30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through, becoming tender and infused with the sauce.

Step 8: Finish
Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the zest of 1 lemon over the dish for a fresh, zesty finish, and taste to adjust any seasoning before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

What to Serve with Rustic French Chicken Provençal in White Wine Sauce?

Imagine a delightful dinner table set with delicious sides that perfectly accompany your Chicken Provençal, creating a feast to remember.

Buttered Noodles: The silky, buttery noodles soak up the sauce, offering a comforting and delicious base that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a bright and refreshing complement that balances the hearty dish.
Crusty French Bread: The ideal option for soaking up every drop of that savory white wine sauce, crusty bread adds satisfying texture and enhances the rustic French experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini add sweetness and a hint of caramelization, creating a flavorful medley alongside your Chicken Provençal.
Creamy Polenta: Its rich and creamy texture offers a wonderful contrast to the tender chicken and adds a touch of comfort, making each bite a delight.
Aromatic Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf studded with herbs pairs beautifully, as its subtle flavors don’t compete but elevate the overall meal experience.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown and crispy, these potato wedges add an earthy crunch, making them perfect for dipping into the sauce.
Chilled White Wine: Serve with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc that echoes the wine used in the recipe, enhancing the dining experience with every sip.
Lemon Sorbet: To cleanse the palate after such a hearty meal, a refreshing lemon sorbet or tart adds a lovely brightness and closes the dinner on a light note.

Expert Tips for Chicken Provençal

Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time browning the chicken; this step builds flavor and enriches the dish.
Monitor Cooking Time: If using boneless thighs, reduce the cooking time to avoid drying them out; always check for doneness early.
Enhance the Flavor: Chicken Provençal tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making leftovers just as delightful!
Storage Savvy: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently for the best texture.
Add Variety: Feel free to swap in diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist that still honors the delicious flavors of Chicken Provençal.

Chicken Provençal Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful variations! Each twist will elevate your Chicken Provençal, making it uniquely yours.

Colorful Veggie Twist: Swap out cherry tomatoes for diced bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant and flavorful update.
Deeper Flavor: Replace green olives with Kalamata olives, adding a robust flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
Add Heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil while sautéing the onion and garlic for a spicy kick.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche at the end for a luxurious touch that marries beautifully with the sauce.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to give your dish a personalized flavor profile that transforms each bite.
Serving Style: Try serving this Chicken Provençal over creamy polenta, risotto, or fluffy couscous instead of noodles or bread for a unique twist on texture.

Let your culinary imagination roam free—this Chicken Provençal is just the canvas! And if you’re looking for more delicious inspiration, check out my Butter Chicken Easily for another comforting dish that embraces flavor and warmth!

Make Ahead Options

Chicken Provençal is the ideal dish for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken thighs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; this allows the flavors of salt, pepper, and herbes de Provence to penetrate deeper. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and garlic in advance, letting them cool before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the sautéed aromatics with the wine, tomatoes, and the prepared chicken, then follow the rest of the cooking instructions. This way, you save precious time on those busy weeknights while still enjoying a comforting and flavorful Chicken Provençal that’s just as delicious as if you made it all in one go!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Provençal

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Chicken Provençal in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Ensure the dish is fully cooled before freezing to maintain quality.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. For quicker results, you can use the microwave’s defrost setting if needed.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. This method helps retain the dish’s juicy texture.

Chicken Provençal Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe tomatoes for Chicken Provençal?
Absolutely! When choosing cherry tomatoes, look for vibrant, shiny skins without any dark spots. A slight give when gently squeezed indicates ripeness, which ensures they’ll burst beautifully in the sauce.

How should I store leftover Chicken Provençal?
For the best quality, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing, as this prevents condensation and preserves the flavors.

Can I freeze Chicken Provençal?
Very! To freeze, allow your Chicken Provençal to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. For quick thawing, place it in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting.

What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, it might be due to the size of the chicken thighs. For more uniform cooking, try to use thighs that are about the same size, and always ensure they are well spaced in the pan while simmering. Additionally, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking helps with even browning and cooking.

Is Chicken Provençal suitable for my pet?
While some ingredients like chicken and herbs are safe for pets, it’s best to avoid feeding them olives, onions, or garlic, as these can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods into your pet’s diet.

Can I make Chicken Provençal without alcohol?
Absolutely! For a delicious non-alcoholic version, simply substitute the dry white wine with chicken broth and add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This will still provide a lovely depth to your sauce without the alcohol content.