Mouth-Watering Chicken Tarragon: Try Our Recipe Today!
Welcome to my Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe! As a home chef and party enthusiast, I’ve always loved creating dishes that not only taste amazing but also impress my guests. And this chicken tarragon recipe definitely ticks both boxes.
If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make crowd-pleaser, then you’re in for a treat. This recipe is perfect for those who are looking for something fancy and flavorful without the hassle of complicated cooking techniques. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll quickly become a pro by following this step-by-step guide.
By using fresh tarragon and creamy creme fraiche in the recipe, we elevate the humble chicken breasts into something truly special. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick to the dish, while the white wine helps to create a rich flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
But don’t just take my word for it – try this Zoe Chicken Tarragon Recipe for yourself and see why it has become such a staple in my kitchen. Your family and friends will be impressed by your culinary skills, and you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
So let’s get started with the ingredient list and dive into the world of creamy tarragon chicken – I promise it’ll be worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken tarragon is a classic French recipe that never goes out of style, and Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe is the perfect example of why. This creamy and herbaceous chicken recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary collection.
What sets this chicken tarragon recipe apart from others is the use of fresh tarragon. Tarragon is a highly aromatic herb with warm, anise-like flavor notes, which pairs perfectly with chicken. The addition of Dijon mustard and creme fraiche further adds depth to the sauce, creating a deliciously tangy flavor profile that lingers on the taste buds.
But what truly makes this recipe stand out is the use of spinach in addition to the chestnut mushrooms. The addition of spinach not only provides an extra burst of color, but it also adds an extra dose of vitamins and nutrients to this already healthy dish.
This recipe can be served with anything from rice to mashed potatoes or even just crusty bread for dipping. It’s versatile enough that you can also transform the leftovers into a delicious chicken salad for those hot summer days.
Overall, Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe is a sophisticated yet simple dish that is guaranteed to impress your dinner guests or elevate your weeknight dinner game repertoire. So next time you’re looking for a twist on plain baked chicken, remember this creamy tarragon chicken for your next culinary adventure.
Ingredient List
When it comes to the Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon recipe, it all starts with the ingredients. This recipe calls for chicken breasts that are cut into bite-size pieces (1-2 inches) and coated in a mixture of plain flour (25g/2 tablespoons), salt and pepper. You’ll also need 9 tablespoons of olive oil to cook the chicken, along with sliced chestnut mushrooms (250g/5 cups) that add extra flavor and texture to the dish.
For the sauce, you’ll need some fresh tarragon, which gives this dish its distinctive flavor. Make sure to use the French variety if possible, as it has a milder and sweeter taste compared to other types. You’ll also need some Dijon mustard, creme fraiche, and dry white wine; these ingredients will give your sauce a tangy, creamy, and slightly acidic flavor.
Here’s a complete list of everything you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 25g (2 tablespoons) plain flour
- Salt and pepper
- 9 tablespoons olive oil
- 250g (5 cups) chestnut mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 200ml (1 cup) creme fraiche
- 125ml (1/2 cup) dry white wine
With these ingredients at hand, let’s move on to the next section to discover why this recipe is so special.
The Recipe How-To
Preparation:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Coat the chicken with plain flour.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking:
1. In the same skillet, add chestnut mushrooms sliced into 1/4 inch thick pieces and cook until they release their moisture and it evaporates, about 5 minutes.
2. Add a tablespoon of plain flour to the mushrooms and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add a cup of white wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for another two minutes or until the sauce has reduced slightly.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard until fully incorporated.
5. Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh tarragon to the skillet followed by a cup of creme fraiche, and stir well to combine until obtaining a creamy sauce consistency.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat evenly with the creamy mixture.
7. Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake for around 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Garnish & Serve:
1. Take out of oven and rest for five minutes before serving with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes or pasta as desired.
2. Garnish with some additional sprigs of fresh tarragon if desired.
Enjoy your succulent Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon recipe!
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe for Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon is already a delicious and unique dish, but there are always ways to change it up and make it your own. Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try:
– Spinach: Instead of or in addition to the mushrooms, you can add spinach to this dish. It will bring a fresh pop of color and flavor.
– Dijon Mustard: You can swap out the Dijon mustard for another type of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy brown, depending on your personal preference.
– Creme Fraiche: If you can’t find creme fraiche in your local grocery store, you can substitute it with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
– White Wine: Any dry white wine will work in this recipe. However, if you prefer to cook without alcohol, you can substitute the white wine with chicken broth.
– Chicken Breast: This recipe calls for chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces. However, you can use chicken thighs or even chicken legs if that’s what you have on hand. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
– Tarragon Chicken Salad: If you have any leftovers from this recipe, don’t throw them away! You can easily turn them into a delicious tarragon chicken salad for lunch. Just chop up the chicken and mix it with some mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and fresh tarragon.
By incorporating these substitutions and variations into Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon recipe, you can make it your own and create a dish that suits your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon is ready, it’s time to consider how you’re going to serve it. This dish is versatile and pairs well with several accompaniments. You can serve it up with some steaming-hot rice or pasta that has been tossed in some butter and fresh herbs. The creamy tarragon sauce coats the starch so perfectly, making each bite heavenly.
If you’re keen on something lighter, try pairing the chicken with a green salad with spinach leaves, thinly sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, and lemony vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing complement the creaminess of the chicken making for an ideal combination.
For wine enthusiasts, consider serving Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris. If you prefer red wine, try going for lighter options like Pinot Noir, Grenache or Gamay to balance the richness of the dish.
Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon recipe has endless possibilities when it comes to pairing it with sides and drinks. Don’t be afraid to play around with different options until you find what works for your taste buds – this dish is bound to leave your guests impressed no matter how you opt to serve it!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe is a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights or when you’re having guests over. This dish can be made up to 2 days ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it. When you’re ready to reheat, simply microwave the chicken on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
For a crispier chicken, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough if left in the oven for too long.
If you have leftover chicken tarragon, do not worry! This dish also makes a delicious cold chicken salad. Simply chop up the leftover chicken into small pieces, add some chopped spinach, and mix with a creamy dressing made from creme fraiche, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon. Serve chilled for a refreshing and delightful lunch option.
When storing leftover chicken tarragon, it’s important to use an airtight container to keep it fresh. Properly stored, this dish can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, we recommend consuming it within 2 days for best taste and freshness.
In a nutshell, Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also travels well and reheats nicely making it a perfect choice for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions with friends and family.
Tips for Perfect Results
To ensure that your Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon recipe delivers the best possible results, here are some tips for you:
1. Fresh tarragon is the key ingredient in this recipe, so it’s essential to use it. The addition of fresh tarragon adds a strong, anise-like flavor and aroma to the dish. If tarragon isn’t readily available, you may substitute with dried tarragon but remember to adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.
2. Cut your chicken into bite-size pieces just like small cubes of beef or lamb for a quicker and more even cooking time. When marinating, ensure that each piece is coated evenly with the marinade. Leave it on for at least an hour or overnight to get a bold flavor.
3. Be generous with seasoning (salt and black pepper) when cooking chicken; it elevates its flavor from bland to extraordinary while adding depth and subtle complexity.
4. When making the sauce, remember not to overcook it. Overcooking could lead to separating or curdling of creme fraiche or cream sauce leading to a lumpy texture.
5. Use a non-stick skillet when cooking the chicken pieces for even browning and less mess while sauteeing mushrooms.
6. Once you’ve added chicken pieces and mushrooms to the skillet, let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes before flipping over till they get a golden brown crisp crust on all sides and cooked through.
7. Add spinach leaves towards the end of cooking along with dijon mustard sauce and turn off the heat once the greens wilted slightly; this way, they still retain their vibrant green color but yet soft enough to eat in one bite.
8. Serve it hot over pasta or rice drizzled with fresh lemon juice; It adds a tangy twist that takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
By following these tips, not only will you get perfect results every time, but you’ll also save yourself time and create a truly impressive dish your guests won’t forget anytime soon!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe is a must-have in your recipe book. The combination of fresh tarragon, Dijon mustard, creme fraiche, and white wine marries well to create an irresistible dish that is also versatile. You can serve it as a main dish or as a salad with spinach and any other greens of your choice.
Furthermore, Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon recipe is easy to prepare with ingredients that are readily available at your local grocery store. The recipe how-to is simple to follow and easy enough for even novice cooks. Additionally, the substitutions and variations section caters to different dietary needs and preferences.
Serving and pairing options are numerous; you can pair it with roasted vegetables, rice or mashed potatoes for a wholesome meal. You can also make-ahead, store and reheat leftovers for a hassle-free serving option during parties or regular weeknight dinners.
To ensure perfect results when making Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe, consider following the tips provided by culinary experts such as Mary Berry and Thomas Keller. Their insights offer insights on achieving the best flavor profile while avoiding common mistakes made by new chefs.
Whether you are entertaining guests or having a cozy night in with family, Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe offers a comforting yet luxurious meal choice. So, let your taste buds do the talking by trying out this creamy tarragon chicken recipe today!
Zoe’s Chicken Tarragon Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, cut into bite size pieces
- 1 ounce plain flour, 25g
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 9 ounces chestnut mushrooms, sliced, 250g
- 5 ounces white wine
- 300 ml creme fraiche
- 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, chopped
- spinach, 1 large handful
Instructions
- Put the chicken into a bowl and sprinkle over the flour and some seasoning. Mix together.
- Heat half of the oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 5 min until golden - do this in batches to stop the chicken from sweating. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Add the remaining oil to the pan and fry the mushrooms for 3 - 5 minutes until nearly cooked through. Return chicken and any juices to the pan. Pour over the white wine and simmer for 2 - 4 minutes.
- Stir in the creme fraiche, mustard and most of the tarragon. Bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Stir in the spinach and check the seasoning. Sprinkle over the remaining tarragon and serve immediately.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!