When the chill of evening sets in and the scent of simmering sauces fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a comforting dish to uplift the spirit. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon this One-Pan Classic French Hunter’s Chicken, or Chicken Chasseur—a culinary treasure that transforms simple ingredients into a warm embrace for the soul. The tender, bone-in chicken is bathed in a rich, savory mushroom and tomato cream sauce that tastes like it took all day to prepare, yet comes together with ease.
Perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also invites you to gather around the table, creating memories that linger long after the last bite. Friends and family will be dazzled by its elegant appearance and layered flavors, while you bask in the comfort of a dish that feels both luxurious and comforting—all made in just one pan! Join me as we dive into the heart of French home cooking and discover why this is simply the best Chicken Chasseur you’ll ever make.
Why is this the Best Chicken Chasseur?
Comforting Elegance: This recipe perfectly merges rustic charm with sophisticated flavors, ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the ease of cooking everything in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze—wonderful for busy schedules!
Rich, Layered Sauce: The delicious combination of mushrooms, tomatoes, and cream creates a depth of flavor that will impress even the toughest critics.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, from different proteins to seasonal veggies, ensuring endless variations!
Family-Friendly: Everyone will love it; kids and adults alike will savor each comforting bite, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts who want to enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week.
Let’s get started on this lovely dish that showcases the beauty of French cuisine at its best!
Best Chicken Chasseur Ingredients
• The ingredients for this cozy dish come together easily, creating a comforting feast that will warm your heart!
For the Sauce
- Butter – adds richness and is essential for sautéing your flavors.
- Olive Oil – used for browning the chicken; can be replaced with canola oil if needed.
- Bone-in Chicken Pieces – the star of the dish, retaining moisture and flavor; boneless cuts can work too!
- Kosher Salt – enhances the taste of the chicken; feel free to use regular salt if you prefer.
- Black Pepper – brings seasoning to the dish; adjust based on your taste preference.
- Cremini Mushrooms – offers an earthy flavor; can substitute with button mushrooms if that’s what you have on hand.
- Shallots – contributes sweetness; onions can be used in a pinch.
- Garlic – infuses the sauce with an aromatic quality; fresh garlic is ideal, but powder can serve as a backup.
- Chicken Stock – adds moisture and depth; replacing half with white wine is a classic touch if desired.
- Tomato Paste – intensifies the sauce’s richness; ketchup works as a last-minute substitute.
- Roma Tomatoes – brings freshness; canned tomatoes are a perfect alternative when fresh ones aren’t available.
- Beef Stock – deepens the flavor; omit it for a lighter version or load up on chicken stock instead.
- Sour Cream – for creamy texture; Greek yogurt can be a lower-fat option.
- Fresh Tarragon – enhances that delightful French flavor; swap with dried tarragon or parsley as needed.
- Fresh Parsley – for garnish, adding a lovely pop of freshness.
For Serving (Optional)
- Russet Potatoes – perfect on the side; substitute with your favorite potatoes or skip for a low-carb alternative.
These ingredients come together to create the best Chicken Chasseur you and your loved ones will enjoy!
How to Make Best Chicken Chasseur
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Season: Start by generously seasoning your bone-in chicken pieces with kosher salt and black pepper. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish. If you’re including russet potatoes, prepare them by chopping into chunks.
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Brown: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in the skillet, browning them for about 8 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely golden color. Once browned, remove the chicken and keep it warm under cover.
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Sauté: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the cremini mushrooms. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become tender and begin to release their moisture. Then, add in the shallots and minced garlic, continuing to cook everything for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Deglaze: Pour in a splash of chicken stock to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any delightful brown bits from the bottom. This process adds depth to your sauce! Next, stir in the tomato paste, diced Roma tomatoes, remaining chicken stock, beef stock, and sour cream. Let this simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
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Finish: Stir in the fresh tarragon and the remaining butter, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. Return the browned chicken to the pan, giving it a gentle stir to coat with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes until the chicken is heated through and enveloped in that luscious sauce.
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Garnish: Serve the chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish is delightful over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that amazing sauce.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Best Chicken Chasseur?
The warmth and richness of this dish create the perfect opportunity to complement it with a variety of delicious sides.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture enhances the savory sauce, making each bite blissfully indulgent. You can also infuse the mashed potatoes with roasted garlic for an added kick!
- Crusty French Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, this bread offers a crunchy exterior with a soft interior. It’s a classic pairing that embodies French bistro charm.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crisp and bright, they provide a lovely contrast to the creamy sauce while adding a hint of freshness to the meal. Toss them with a little olive oil and lemon juice for a zing!
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy and mildly flavored, this side absorbs the sauce beautifully, allowing you to enjoy every droplet of goodness in the dish.
- Ratatouille: This vibrant mix of seasonal vegetables delivers both color and flavor, making it a delightful accompaniment that celebrates French cuisine.
- Roasted Asparagus: The slight char and tender crunch of asparagus not only brighten your plate but also complement the savory elements of the Chicken Chasseur.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine, like a French Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the meal with its depth, making for a truly cozy dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with this classic French dessert; its light and airy texture contrasts beautifully with the meal’s richness, creating a perfect finish.
Storage Tips for Best Chicken Chasseur
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Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Chasseur in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: This dish freezes very well! Portion it out into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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Reheating: Gently reheat the Chicken Chasseur on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to restore its creamy texture.
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Meal Prep: If meal prepping, consider making a double batch to enjoy the best Chicken Chasseur throughout the week. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners!
Make Ahead Options
This One-Pan Classic French Hunter’s Chicken (Chicken Chasseur) is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weekdays. You can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, prepare the mushroom and sauce mixture up to 3 days in advance; simply cool it down, refrigerate in an airtight container, and reheat on the stove. When you’re ready to serve, just brown the chicken, combine it with the pre-prepared sauce, and let it simmer for a quick finish. To maintain quality, ensure that the chicken is well-sealed to prevent drying out and always taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy the convenience of a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
Best Chicken Chasseur Variations
Feel free to personalize this recipe and make it your own, turning each meal into a delightful experience!
- Boneless Bliss: Use boneless chicken breasts or thighs for a quicker cook time and easier slicing.
- Mushroom Medley: Swap cremini mushrooms for shiitake or portobello for a unique flavor twist that adds depth.
- Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate peas or asparagus based on the season to add a vibrant burst of color and freshness.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Replace sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt for a creamy finish without dairy.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or thyme in place of tarragon for a refreshing take on the classic French flavor.
- Heat it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, transforming this cozy dish into a mouthwatering experience.
- Wine Wonder: Enhance the sauce’s richness by deglazing the pan with a splash of dry white wine instead of chicken stock.
- Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, elevating this dish’s savory notes to new heights.
Let your creativity shine as you explore these variations, tailoring this comforting classic to suit your taste!
Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Chasseur
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh tarragon and parsley significantly enhance the flavor. Dried herbs can be used, but the taste won’t be the same as fresh, so choose wisely!
- Don’t Rush Browning: Take your time to brown the chicken well; it adds a richer flavor to the entire dish and creates a beautiful color.
- Taste as You Go: Seasoning is everything! Adjust salt and pepper to your preference for the best Chicken Chasseur experience.
- Avoid Overcooking: Monitor the chicken closely once it’s returned to the pan. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, so keep it juicy!
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—this dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
Best Chicken Chasseur Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Chasseur?
Absolutely! For the best Chicken Chasseur, bone-in chicken pieces are recommended as they retain moisture and flavor beautifully during cooking. However, boneless cuts can also be used; just keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent dryness (about 6-8 minutes per side).
How should I store leftover Chicken Chasseur?
You can store leftover Chicken Chasseur in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it, which helps maintain freshness and flavor!
Can I freeze Chicken Chasseur?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze Chicken Chasseur for up to 3 months. To do this, portion the dish into airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if needed.
What should I serve with Chicken Chasseur?
This delightful dish shines when served over garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or even alongside crusty bread to soak up that rich, creamy sauce. You can also add a side of seasonal veggies for a pop of color and nutrition!
Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Chasseur?
Great question! If you’re concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, you can make substitutions based on your needs. For a dairy-free option, swap out the butter for olive oil and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. Always check ingredient labels to ensure there’s no cross-contamination.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If your Chicken Chasseur sauce ends up too thin, don’t worry! Simply remove the chicken, let the sauce simmer uncovered on low heat for a few extra minutes to allow it to reduce and thicken. You can also mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry and stir that in, allowing it to cook for a couple of minutes to achieve the desired thickness.
Best Chicken Chasseur: Your Cozy One-Pan Delight Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Chop the russet potatoes into chunks if using.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken for about 8 minutes on each side. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and cremini mushrooms. Sauté for 3 minutes, then add shallots and garlic, cooking for another minute.
- Deglaze with a splash of chicken stock, scraping up brown bits. Stir in tomato paste, Roma tomatoes, remaining chicken stock, beef stock, and sour cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in tarragon and remaining butter. Add chicken back in and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.