Classic French Hunter's Chicken : Chicken Chasseur

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Chicken Chasseur is the perfect recipe for cozy weeknight dinners. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish brings that warm, comforting French bistro feel right into your home kitchen. Imagine tender chicken smothered in a savory tomato–mushroom cream sauce—it’s sure to become your go-to meal when you want something impressive but fuss-free. Try it tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Chasseur

Busy schedule? No problem. This dish comes together in one pan with simple ingredients and a few fresh touches (hello, tarragon!), delivering big flavor with minimal effort. It’s that dish that greets you with a hug the moment you open the fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 Tbsp butter, divided
3 russet potatoes (for optional mashed potatoes, or swap for your favorite side)
4 Tbsp olive oil
3 lb bone‑in chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks—whatever you like!)
2 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
¼ cup shallots, diced
1½ Tbsp garlic, minced
½ cup cognac or brandy (optional—omit or substitute a splash of extra stock)
½ cup white wine (or extra chicken stock)
3 Tbsp tomato paste
2 Roma tomatoes, diced
1½ cups chicken stock
½ cup beef stock
¼ cup sour cream
2 Tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic French Hunter’s Chicken

Prep & Season
Pat chicken dry and season well with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prep the rest.
Cook Chicken
Heat 2 Tbsp butter + 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken 8 minutes on each side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove chicken and cover loosely to rest.
Sauté Veggies
In the same pan, add remaining olive oil. Sauté mushrooms for 3 minutes until they start to soften. Add shallots and garlic, stirring for just 1 minute until fragrant.
Deglaze & Simmer
Add cognac (if using), scraping up those brown bits—flavor heaven! Splash in wine and let it reduce by half. Stir in tomato paste, tomatoes, both stocks, and sour cream. Let it simmer gently until sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
Finish the Sauce
Stir in tarragon and the remaining butter until melted and silky smooth.
Bring it All Together
Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over, and simmer for another 5 minutes to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes (see below), crusty bread, or your favorite grains.

Optional Mashed Potatoes

Peel and quarter russet potatoes. Boil until soft, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, a splash of milk (if desired), and salt/pepper to taste. Serve alongside your chicken for the ultimate comfort plate.

Cooking Tips & Light Encouragement

No wine or cognac? No problem. Use extra chicken stock and a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
Lumpy sauce? That’s flavor layering—just stir more and simmer a minute.
Don’t overcook the chicken, or it’ll dry out. Keep it juicy by pulling it off heat a bit early—it finishes cooking while resting.

My Go-To Family Memory

I first made this Chicken Chasseur for a Sunday evening with my mom and sister. I skipped the alcohol, used extra stock, and served it with garlic mashed potatoes. My sister took one bite and exclaimed, “This is restaurant quality!” Ever since, it’s been a staple whenever I want cozy and impressive without hours in the kitchen.

Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich mushroom and tomato sauce – classic Chicken Chasseur served with creamy mashed potatoes. — Hearty and comforting Chicken Chasseur, a French favorite featuring juicy chicken in a savory mushroom sauce—perfect with mashed potatoes.

FAQs about Chicken Chasseur

Can I swap bone-in chicken for boneless?

Absolutely! Use boneless thighs or breasts. Brown them longer and reduce simmer time to avoid drying out.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool fully, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove; add a splash of stock to refresh the sauce.

Can I freeze it?

Yes—freeze in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

Conclusion

This Chicken Chasseur is a lovely way to bring a bit of French comfort into your busy life—rich, creamy, and reliably delightful. No need to head to a bistro when you can whip up something this special right at home. Dive in, share the joy, and savor every bite of this Classic French Hunter’s Chicken!

More Chicken Recipes to Savor

If you enjoyed the comforting flavors of Chicken Chasseur, here are a few delicious recipes you’ll want to explore next. Each one brings its own twist of richness, boldness, or heartiness—perfect for cozy dinners and impressing your loved ones.

Crusted Chicken Romano – A crispy, cheesy classic with Italian flair that’s just as irresistible as it sounds.
Alfredo Chicken Lasagna – Layered with creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken, this dish is comfort food on a whole new level.
Honey Sriracha Chicken Recipe – Sweet, spicy, and totally addictive—perfect for anyone who loves bold, punchy flavors.
Creamy Garlic Chicken with Roasted Baby Potatoes – Rich and savory, this one-pan wonder makes dinner feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Go ahead, bookmark your favorites and keep the chicken magic going!