Exquisite Creamy French Chicken Tray Bake Recipe

Introduction to the Ultimate French Chicken Tray Bake

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of French cuisine with our meticulously crafted Creamy French Chicken Tray Bake. This dish marries the tenderness of chicken with a creamy, herb-infused sauce, creating a meal that is both comforting and sophisticated. Ideal for dinner parties or a delightful family meal, our recipe is designed to elevate your dining experience.

Ingredients for a Gourmet Experience

To create this culinary masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:

Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on): 8 pieces
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Shallots: 4, finely chopped
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons
White Wine: 1 cup
Chicken Stock: 1 cup
Heavy Cream: 1 cup
Fresh Thyme: 6 sprigs
Fresh Tarragon: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Mushrooms: 2 cups, sliced
Baby Potatoes: 1 pound, halved
Carrots: 4, cut into sticks
Salt and Pepper: To taste

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking tray with olive oil to ensure nothing sticks during the baking process.

2. Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking tray.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the shallots and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, approximately 2 minutes. Stir in the Dijon mustard and cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.

4. Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the white wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half, intensifying the rich flavors.

5. Create the Creamy Sauce

Add the chicken stock and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring continuously. Incorporate the fresh thyme and tarragon, letting the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly.

6. Assemble the Tray Bake

Arrange the baby potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms around the chicken thighs on the baking tray. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the entire tray, ensuring everything is well-coated.

7. Bake to Perfection

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The sauce should be bubbling and slightly reduced.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the tray from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with additional fresh tarragon before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine and a side of crusty French bread.

Nutritional Information

Providing balanced nutrition, this dish offers approximately:

Calories: 620 per serving
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 40g
Fiber: 5g

Conclusion

Our Creamy French Chicken Tray Bake is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures that promises to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With its rich sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, this dish brings a touch of French elegance to your dinner table. Enjoy the delightful symphony of tastes and aromas with every bite.