Stepping into the kitchen, the aroma of savory simmering chicken wrapped in a fragrant, delightful sauce brings back memories of quaint French bistros and cozy family dinners. This Classic French Hunter’s Chicken, or Chicken Chasseur, is my go-to recipe whenever I crave comfort food that feels both elegant and effortlessly homey. What I love most about this dish is its one-pan simplicity, drastically cutting down on cleanup time while delivering rich, robust flavors that impress even the pickiest eaters. In just under an hour, you can create a wholesome, satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. Ready to dive into the enchanting world of French cuisine? Let’s get cooking!

Why is Chicken Chasseur so amazing?

Simplicity at its finest: You’ll love that this dish comes together in just one pan, making it perfect for those who are short on time but still want to impress at dinner.

Comforting flavors abound: The tender chicken simmered in a luscious mushroom and tomato sauce creates a warm embrace for your palate.

Versatile options: Feel free to swap out chicken parts or even adjust the stock types to suit your preferences—flexibility is key!

Meal prep friendly: This recipe not only tastes better the next day but also freezes well, providing a heartwarming meal whenever you need it.

For a delightful side, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad to elevate your dining experience!

Enjoy the cozy, bistro vibes right in your kitchen—you’re in for a treat!

Classic French Hunter’s Chicken Ingredients

• For the Chicken

Bone-in Chicken Pieces – Provides depth of flavor and tenderness; can substitute with boneless cuts while adjusting cooking time.
Kosher Salt – Ensures seasoning through and through; sea salt is a great alternative.
Black Pepper – Enhances the dish’s flavor profile.

• For the Sauce

Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; olive oil can be substituted for a lighter option.
Olive Oil – Ideal for browning chicken and sautéing vegetables; any neutral oil works too.
Cremini Mushrooms – Infuses umami flavors; swap for button mushrooms if needed.
Shallots – Provide a gentle sweet onion flavor; can be replaced with onions or leeks.
Garlic – Elevates the dish’s aroma and taste; fresh garlic is best, but powdered works in a pinch.
Chicken Stock – The backbone of the sauce; vegetable stock can be a lighter substitute.
Beef Stock – Deepens richness; more chicken stock can be used instead.
Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
Roma Tomatoes – Adds freshness and acidity; feel free to use any ripe tomato variety.
Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and a tangy finish; Greek yogurt or crème fraîche makes a good substitute.
Fresh Tarragon – Gives a unique herbal note; dried tarragon can be used with less quantity.

• For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – Adds color and freshness to the final presentation.

Embrace the delightful flavors of Classic French Hunter’s Chicken with these simple yet essential ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Begin by generously seasoning your bone-in chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavors of your Classic French Hunter’s Chicken. Let them sit for a few minutes while you prepare your pan to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, approximately 2 minutes. Add the seasoned chicken pieces, ensuring they fit without overcrowding. Brown the chicken for about 8 minutes on each side, or until golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add a splash more olive oil if needed, and toss in the cremini mushrooms. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they begin to brown slightly. Next, add the minced shallots and garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant and softened, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Deglaze the pan by pouring in about 1 cup of chicken stock, scraping up the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom with a wooden spoon. Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, diced Roma tomatoes, ½ cup of beef stock, and ½ cup of sour cream. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it is nestled in the rich sauce. Sprinkle fresh tarragon over the top, alongside the remaining tablespoon of butter. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, it’s time to serve your Classic French Hunter’s Chicken. Spoon the creamy mushroom and tomato sauce generously over the chicken pieces. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside rice for a delightful meal.

Expert Tips for Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

• Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Bone-in pieces yield the best flavor and moisture, but if you prefer boneless, adjust cooking times to avoid dryness.

• Enhanced Flavor: Sauté your vegetables until golden; this caramelization adds depth to the sauce, making your Classic French Hunter’s Chicken even more delicious.

• Don’t Skip Deglazing: Scraping up the flavorful bits stuck to the pan after browning the chicken is key to creating a rich sauce.

• Perfect Consistency: If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken stock while reheating to maintain that creamy texture.

• Meal Prep Magic: Make this dish in advance! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop, making it ideal for leftovers.

Storage Tips for Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while ensuring food safety.

Freezer: Freeze Classic French Hunter’s Chicken in airtight containers for up to 3 months. This allows you to enjoy a comforting meal whenever you like!

Thawing: To thaw, place the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight for a safe, slow defrost. This helps maintain the dish’s rich flavors and textures.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if the sauce thickens too much. Enjoy your warm, cozy meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic French Hunter’s Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can season the chicken and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Additionally, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. To maintain quality, be sure to cool the sauce completely before refrigerating and reheat gently with a splash of chicken stock to restore its creamy texture. When ready to serve, simply brown the chicken and add it to the warmed sauce, letting it simmer for 5 minutes to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

Imagine the delightful aroma lingering in your kitchen as you savor a warm and inviting meal that embraces the essence of French comfort food.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate pairing to soak up rich sauce, making every bite a velvety delight. A side of buttery mashed potatoes complements the dish beautifully, adding a creamy texture that balances the flavors perfectly.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad works wonders to cut through the richness of the sauce. Tossed greens with a zesty vinaigrette provide a light contrast, offering a freshness that enhances the overall dining experience.
Crusty French Bread: Perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce, chewy slices of crusty French bread add a satisfying rustic touch to your meal. The toasted crunch creates a contrast to the tender chicken and creamy sauce.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These earthy, caramelized sprouts introduce a savory depth that pairs subtly with the rich main dish. The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of the tomato sauce beautifully.
Herb-Cooked Rice: Fluffy, fragrant rice infused with herbs makes for an excellent base. It allows the flavorful sauce to shine while adding an aromatic touch to the plate.
Chardonnay or Merlot: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or a smooth Merlot enhances the dining experience, complementing the savory notes of the Hunter’s Chicken perfectly. Each sip rounds out the meal, bringing sophistication to your table.
Chocolate Tart: End on a sweet note with a rich chocolate tart. Its dense, luscious texture will provide a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, leaving your palette satisfied and yearning for more.

With these pairings, you can elevate your Classic French Hunter’s Chicken meal into a stunning dining experience that warms the heart and delights the senses!

Classic French Hunter’s Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own, transforming it into something uniquely delightful!

Boneless Chicken: Use boneless thighs or breasts for a faster cooking time. Just ensure they stay juicy by monitoring closely.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for hearty mushrooms like portobellos or extra-firm tofu, allowing the original flavors to shine through.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your chicken stock and any added sauces are gluten-free; pair with sautéed vegetables instead of traditional sides.
Herb Swaps: Try fresh dill or basil instead of tarragon for a twist on the herbaceous flavor, bringing a different aroma to the dish.
Creamy Spin: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for an even richer sauce that envelops the chicken beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a delightful heat that enhances the richness of the sauce.
Tomato Variety: Mix ripe heirloom tomatoes for a sweeter flavor profile or sun-dried tomatoes to intensify the umami.
Side Suggestions: Serve over creamy mashed potatoes or rice, but also consider pairing with a crisp, green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.

If you’re looking for more flavorful combinations, check out these delectable ideas: Cheesy French Onion Meatballs or Cream Cheese Chicken. Your culinary journey awaits!

Classic French Hunter’s Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor and moisture, I recommend using bone-in chicken pieces such as thighs or drumsticks. If you prefer boneless chicken, adjust the cooking time accordingly since boneless cuts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

How long can I store leftovers of Classic French Hunter’s Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures that the flavors remain fresh while keeping food safety in mind. If you want to enjoy the dish later, freezing is also a great option!

Can I freeze Classic French Hunter’s Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the entire dish in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock if necessary.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find that your sauce has thickened too much during storage or reheating, simply add a splash of chicken stock while warming it up. This will help restore the creamy texture and enhance the flavor, keeping your Classic French Hunter’s Chicken as delicious as when it was freshly made.

Can I make this dish for someone with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs by substituting ingredients. For instance, olive oil can replace butter, and Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used in place of sour cream. Always check for allergens relating to chicken stock and any additional seasonings you choose to use.

How can I tell if my chicken is cooked through?
To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken; if the juices run clear and there’s no pink meat, it’s ready to serve!