Basque Chicken, also known as “Poulet Basquaise,” is a rustic and flavorful dish originating from the Basque region of France. This dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, hearty sauce made from tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and aromatic herbs. The addition of smoky paprika and a splash of white wine enhances the dish, bringing depth to its savory, slightly spicy flavors. Basque Chicken is a perfect comfort meal, often served with rice, crusty bread, or potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a beautiful, one-pot dish that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with the vibrant tastes of southwestern France.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Make the Sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Chicken: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf and garnish the dish with fresh parsley. Serve the Basque Chicken with rice, crusty bread, or potatoes to soak up the rich sauce.
Enjoy your Basque Chicken, a deliciously savory and hearty dish that brings the flavors of the Basque region straight to your table!
