Classic French Hunter’s Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe

Name: Classic French Hunter’s Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup all-purpose flour; 6 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large Swiss brown mushroom, sliced; 7 oz Swiss brown button mushrooms, halved or quartered; 2 pieces shallots, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 0.33 cup Cognac; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cups chicken stock; 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Introduction to Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

Classic French Hunter’s Chicken, or Coq au Vin, is a delightful dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This rustic meal is a staple in French cooking, featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s the perfect dinner option for family gatherings or a cozy night in, celebrating the essence of French culinary tradition. Today, I’ll guide you through making this comforting dish, ensuring you can recreate its magic in your kitchen.

A Personal Story Behind My Classic French Hunter’s Chicken Journey

Growing up, I remember my grandmother preparing classic French dishes with such passion and love. One of my favorites was her Hunter’s Chicken, which filled our home with a warm, savory aroma that would make anyone’s mouth water. It became a family tradition to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over this delicious meal. Every bite was a reminder of the love and care put into cooking, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can create your own cherished memories.

What Makes This Classic French Hunter’s Chicken Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity combined with depth of flavor. The use of fresh herbs like tarragon and parsley adds brightness, while the earthy mushrooms create a comforting texture. The combination of cognac (or a non-alcoholic substitute), white wine, and chicken stock results in a sauce that is rich and satisfying. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to the heart of France with every bite.

The Full Classic French Hunter’s Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
6-8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large Swiss brown mushroom, sliced
7 oz (200g) Swiss brown button mushrooms, halved or quartered
2 shallots, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/3 cup Cognac
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups chicken stock
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

In a bowl, coat the chicken thighs with flour, ensuring they’re evenly covered. This helps to create a nice crust while browning.

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and brown until dark golden, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other sides. Once browned, remove the thighs and set aside.
Carefully remove excess oil from the pan, leaving about 2 tablespoons. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften.

Add the finely chopped shallots and crushed garlic to the pan. Sauté until the shallots become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be cautious not to burn the shallots!
Pour in the cognac to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom. Let it reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste, chicken stock, and chopped tarragon. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Return the chicken thighs to the pan, skin side up. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes, checking and scraping the bottom every 10 minutes to ensure nothing sticks.
After 45 minutes, remove the lid. If the sauce appears too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve the Hunter’s Chicken with roasted or mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

This delightful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up the rich sauce. If you prefer something lighter, consider a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. For variations, you can add carrots or bell peppers for added sweetness and color. Adjust the herbs to your liking, perhaps trying rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have cognac?
You can substitute cognac with a non-alcoholic option, like a mix of chicken stock and a splash of vinegar for acidity.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day ahead and reheat it for the best flavors.

Enjoy your homemade Classic French Hunter’s Chicken, and may it bring warmth and joy to your table!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4