Chicken Thighs in a Mustard, Tarragon, and Grape Pan Sauce

Introduction

There’s something truly special about a dish that effortlessly combines comfort and elegance. This Chicken Thighs in a Mustard, Tarragon, and Grape Pan Sauce recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household. The juicy chicken thighs, crispy skin, and the rich, tangy sauce created by the mustard and fresh tarragon make for a delightful dinner experience. Recently, I served this dish to friends, and it was met with raves and requests for the recipe. It’s impressive yet simple enough for a weeknight meal, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to elevate their cooking without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 6-8 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
• Dash vegetable oil
• Knob of unsalted butter
• 1 large shallot, finely sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
• 100g white wine
• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 100g good quality chicken stock
• 150ml single cream
• 100g white grapes, halved lengthways
• 3 large tarragon sprigs, leaves picked and chopped
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C fan/gas 6. This temperature is ideal for finishing off the chicken after searing.

Sear the Chicken

1. In a large stainless steel frying pan over medium-high heat, add a dash of vegetable oil.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and place them skin-side down in the hot pan.
3. Cook until the skin is very crisp and golden, about 7-10 minutes. Avoid moving them around too much; if some parts brown slower, press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.

Bake the Chicken

Once the skin is crisp, transfer the thighs to a baking dish (skin-side up) and finish cooking in the oven for 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs. This step ensures the chicken is cooked through while maintaining its juiciness.

Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same frying pan (do not clean it, as the fond will add flavor), add a knob of butter along with the sliced shallot and garlic.
2. Gently cook for 3-5 minutes until softened but not browned, allowing the flavors to develop.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white wine, scraping up the fond (the brown bits) from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer and reduce by half, about 3 minutes. This deglazing step is crucial for adding depth to your sauce.

Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the wholegrain mustard and chicken stock, and reduce by half again, approximately 5 minutes.
2. Add the cream and reduce further to your desired sauce consistency, ensuring a rich and creamy texture.

Finish the Sauce

Gently fold in the halved grapes and season with salt to taste. Stir in the chopped tarragon, which will add a fresh herbaceous note to the sauce.

Combine and Serve

Nestle the cooked chicken thighs back into the sauce and serve immediately. Pair with steamed green vegetables and either roast potatoes or rice for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 3-4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 490 kcal
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 35g

Preparation Time

• Hands-on: 25 minutes
• Oven: 10-15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the chicken thighs topped with the creamy sauce and grapes.
• Accompany with:
• Steamed green vegetables (such as green beans or asparagus)
• Roasted potatoes
• Rice
• Garnish with additional fresh tarragon for an aromatic touch.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken thighs and stock for the best flavor.
2. Don’t Rush the Searing: Allow the chicken skin to get crisp before turning, as this enhances flavor and texture.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh tarragon makes a noticeable difference; dried herbs won’t provide the same vibrant taste.
4. Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of single cream.
5. Try Different Grapes: Experiment with red or green grapes to find your preferred flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach or kale into the sauce for added nutrients.
• Different Proteins: Substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or even pork chops.
• Vegan Option: Use seitan or tempeh instead of chicken, and substitute cream with coconut milk.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the dish’s flavors.
• Serve with a crisp mixed salad for a refreshing contrast.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

• Yes, boneless thighs will work but adjust the cooking time as they cook faster.

1. What can I substitute for white wine?

• Use chicken stock or grape juice with a splash of vinegar for acidity.

1. Is it necessary to deglaze the pan?

• Yes, deglazing helps incorporate all the flavors stuck to the pan into the sauce.

1. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

• Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time; reheat gently before serving.

1. What should I serve with this dish?

• Serve with vegetables, rice, or potatoes for a complete meal.

1. How can I thicken the sauce?

• Simmer it longer to reduce, or mix a bit of cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce.

1. What if I don’t have tarragon?

• Substitute with fresh thyme or parsley for a different flavor profile.

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

• It’s best to thaw chicken thighs before cooking for even cooking.

1. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

• Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.

Conclusion

This Chicken Thighs in a Mustard, Tarragon, and Grape Pan Sauce recipe is a delightful dish that brings a touch of French cuisine to your home. With its simple preparation and rich flavors, it’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and sweet grapes creates a harmonious dish that is sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!

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