Authentic Chicken Provençal

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Authentic Chicken Provençal (Easy One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Thighs)

Bring the sunny flavors of Southern France straight to your kitchen with this beautifully aromatic Chicken Provençal. Golden, pan-seared chicken thighs simmer slowly in a vibrant sauce filled with tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and orange zest. The result is tender, juicy meat and a richly flavored sauce worthy of mopping up with crusty bread.

This recipe uses simple ingredients but delivers restaurant-quality flavor, thanks to Herbes de Provence—a classic French blend of dried herbs—and a slow oven braise that deepens every component. It is an elegant yet comforting dish you can serve to family or guests with confidence.

What Is Chicken Provençal?

Chicken Provençal is a traditional French dish from the Provence region, known for bright, herb-forward flavors. Typical Provençal cooking relies on ingredients that thrive under warm Mediterranean sun: tomatoes, olives, garlic, citrus, and fragrant herbs.

This version stays true to the spirit of the original while using an alcohol-free method. Instead of white wine, a mixture of chicken broth and a touch of white wine vinegar (or lemon juice) adds acidity and depth without the use of alcohol.

Ingredients You Will Need

A handful of Mediterranean pantry staples transform basic chicken thighs into something extraordinary.

For the Chicken

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Herbes de Provence
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Extra virgin olive oil

For the Aromatic Provençal Sauce

  • Shallots, quartered
  • Garlic cloves, halved
  • Chicken broth (alcohol-free base)
  • White wine vinegar or fresh lemon juice
  • Cherry or grape tomatoes
  • Castelvetrano (or other green) olives
  • Capers, rinsed
  • Fresh tarragon sprigs
  • Fresh parsley
  • A wide strip of orange zest

How to Make Chicken Provençal (Step-by-Step)

This dish looks impressive but requires only one pan and simple techniques.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry. Mix Herbes de Provence, salt, and black pepper. Rub this fragrant mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
Let the chicken rest for 20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.

2. Sear to Build Flavor

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet. Add the chicken skin-side down and let it cook until deeply golden and crisp.
Turn briefly to brown the underside, then transfer to a plate.

This initial sear is essential—it locks in moisture and gives the sauce depth.

3. Build the Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, sauté shallots and garlic until softened and lightly caramelized.
Add chicken broth and a splash of white wine vinegar or lemon juice to deglaze the pan. Scrape up every browned bit—the flavor is all there.

4. Add the Provençal Elements

Stir in:

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Halved green olives
  • Rinsed capers
  • Tarragon sprigs
  • Orange zest

Let everything gently simmer together.

5. Nestle the Chicken and Braise

Place the chicken back in the skillet, ensuring the skin stays above the liquid.
Transfer the pan to the oven and cook uncovered at 350°F until the chicken becomes tender and the sauce reduces to a rich, glossy consistency. This usually takes about 45 minutes.

6. Finish and Serve

Remove tarragon sprigs and orange zest.
Scatter fresh parsley and chopped tarragon over the top for brightness.

Serve warm with bread, rice, roasted potatoes, or a simple green side dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Make this dish your own without changing its Mediterranean character.

  • Alcohol-free guaranteed:
    Use only chicken broth plus white wine vinegar or lemon juice—no wine needed.
  • Use legs and thighs:
    A mix of cuts adds variety and looks beautiful when serving guests.
  • Olive swaps:
    Try Picholine, Lucques, Chalkidiki, or even Kalamata.
    For an olive-free version, increase capers to ¼ cup.
  • Italian flavor twist:
    Replace Herbes de Provence with Italian seasoning or a mix of rosemary, thyme, and oregano.

What to Serve with Chicken Provençal

This dish pairs beautifully with something simple and fresh. Try:

  • Italian-style green beans with lemon and garlic
  • Butter lettuce salad with herbs
  • A French baguette or rustic bread
  • Roasted vegetables, especially potatoes, zucchini, or carrots
  • Fluffy rice or couscous to absorb the sauce

The broth-like Provençal sauce is one of the highlights—serve it in shallow bowls so it can be enjoyed fully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It uses wholesome, accessible ingredients
  • One pan means easy cleanup
  • The flavors are layered, fresh, and aromatic
  • Works for both weeknights and elegant dinners
  • Completely alcohol-free and family-friendly

 

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