Ekani Ella This Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-pot dish inspired by classic French cuisine. Made with tender chicken, earthy vegetables, and a rich wine-based sauce, it’s the perfect meal for cozy evenings. Simple yet sophisticated, this casserole is sure to impress your family and guests alike.
What is Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole?
A French chicken casserole is a slow-cooked dish featuring chicken, vegetables, and a savory sauce. The Hairy Bikers’ version stays true to its French roots with the use of wine, garlic, and herbs, creating a dish that’s comforting, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Hearty and flavorful: Perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
- One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Impressive yet simple: Ideal for family meals or entertaining guests.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with seasonal vegetables.
- Authentic French flair: Brings the flavors of France to your table.
Ingredients Needed for Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole
- 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 200g button mushrooms, halved
- 200ml white wine
- 400ml chicken stock
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large casserole dish or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and chopping board
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole
- Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining olive oil to the casserole dish. Cook the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the dish with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Liquid and Seasoning: Stir in the chicken stock, tomato purée, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix well to combine.
- Return the Chicken: Nestle the browned chicken pieces into the casserole, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Gently: Cover the casserole dish with a lid and cook on low heat for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.
What to Serve With Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole
- Crusty French bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Creamy mashed potatoes: A classic pairing for casseroles.
- Steamed green beans or asparagus: Adds a fresh and vibrant side.
- Rice or pasta: Another great option to accompany the sauce.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole
- Use bone-in chicken: It adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
- Brown the chicken: This step is essential for developing rich flavors.
- Don’t skip the wine: It adds depth and authenticity to the sauce.
- Experiment with herbs: Try adding rosemary or sage for a unique twist.
- Make it ahead: This casserole tastes even better the next day.
How Do I Store Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before reheating.
How Do I Reheat Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole?
- Stovetop: Reheat gently in a casserole dish over low-medium heat.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
Final Words
This Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole Recipe is a timeless dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your table. With its tender chicken, rich sauce, and aromatic herbs, it’s a recipe that’s sure to be a family favorite. Serve it with your choice of sides and enjoy a taste of French country cooking in your own home!
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Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole
A French chicken casserole is a slow-cooked dish featuring chicken, vegetables, and a savory sauce. The Hairy Bikers’ version stays true to its French roots with the use of wine, garlic, and herbs, creating a dish that’s comforting, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken thighs and 4 drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery sticks, chopped
- 200g button mushrooms, halved
- 200ml white wine
- 400ml chicken stock
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large casserole dish over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces skin-side down and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining olive oil to the casserole dish. Cook the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the dish with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the Liquid and Seasoning: Stir in the chicken stock, tomato purée, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix well to combine.
- Return the Chicken: Nestle the browned chicken pieces into the casserole, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook Gently: Cover the casserole dish with a lid and cook on low heat for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes.
