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Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole

Hairy Bikers French Chicken Casserole
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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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Add the Liquid and Seasoning: Stir in the chicken stock, tomato purée, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix well to combine.
  5. Return the Chicken: Nestle the browned chicken pieces into the casserole, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Find it online: https://britishrecipeshub.co.uk/hairy-bikers-french-chicken-casserole/