Mary Berry's Classic Chicken Chasseur is a timeless dish that perfectly combines tenderness, flavor, and sophistication. Whether you are an experienced home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and family alike. With its roots in French cuisine, Chicken Chasseur, also known as Hunter's Chicken, is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases succulent chicken pieces cooked in a rich sauce with mushrooms, tomatoes, and wine. 🍗🍅🍄
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Ingredients for Mary Berry's Chicken Chasseur
To prepare this delicious Chicken Chasseur, gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken: 4 chicken thighs and 4 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Shallots: 4, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Mushrooms: 250g, sliced
- Tomatoes: 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- Red wine: 200ml
- Chicken stock: 200ml
- Thyme: 2-3 sprigs, fresh
- Bay leaves: 1-2 leaves
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh parsley: for garnish
This combination of ingredients not only adds depth to the dish but also enhances its presentation.
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Preparation Steps
Here’s how to prepare Mary Berry's Classic Chicken Chasseur in a few simple steps:
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Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor.
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Brown the Chicken: In a large casserole dish or frying pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and cook until browned on both sides. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set aside.
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Sauté Shallots and Garlic: In the same pan, add the chopped shallots and cook for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
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Add Mushrooms: Next, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are browned and have released their moisture.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the red wine, allowing it to bubble for a minute. Then, add the chopped tomatoes, chicken stock, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Return Chicken to the Pan: Nestle the browned chicken pieces back into the sauce. Cover and simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Ensure to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 75°C (165°F).
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Finishing Touches: Once the chicken is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the thyme and bay leaves before serving.
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Garnish and Serve: Serve the Chicken Chasseur hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh green salad.
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Tips for Success
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Choosing the Right Chicken: Using skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks ensures the meat remains juicy and flavorful. Avoid using breast meat as it can dry out during cooking.
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Wine Selection: The choice of red wine can impact the flavor of the dish. Opt for a medium-bodied wine that you would enjoy drinking; this will enhance the sauce beautifully.
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Mushroom Variations: Feel free to mix different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or portobello, to elevate the flavor profile.
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Preparing Ahead: Chicken Chasseur can be prepared a day in advance. Simply reheat gently before serving; the flavors will deepen overnight!
Step | Action | Time |
---|---|---|
1 | Prepare and season chicken | 5 minutes |
2 | Brown chicken | 10 minutes |
3 | Sauté shallots and garlic | 4 minutes |
4 | Add mushrooms | 7 minutes |
5 | Create sauce | 2 minutes |
6 | Simmer chicken | 35 minutes |
7 | Garnish and serve | 5 minutes |
Note: "This recipe is all about layering flavors; don’t rush the cooking process. Allow each ingredient to shine."
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Perfect Pairings
Chicken Chasseur is versatile and pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some popular options:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, a classic combination.
- Steamed Green Beans: Adds a touch of color and freshness.
- Salad: A simple arugula or mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Each of these sides can enhance your meal and make it even more enjoyable.
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Conclusion
Mary Berry's Classic Chicken Chasseur is not only a delightful meal to prepare but also a dish that brings joy and satisfaction to those who share it. With its rich flavors and tender chicken, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and impress your family and friends with this timeless classic. 🍽️❤️
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