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Chicken au Poivre

Chicken au Poivre

from allrecipes.com
40 min
4 servings
598 kcal per serving

In this chicken au poivre, cracked peppercorns add a punch of spice to a lovely cream sauce for chicken thighs. It's especially nice served over rice or noodles.

Ingredients

  • black peppercorns
    1 tbsp
  • olive oil
    1 tbsp
  • unsalted butter

    divided

    3 tbsp
  • boneless

    skinless chicken thighs, patted dry

    2 lb
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • minced shallot
    2 tbsp
  • low-sodium chicken broth
    1 c
  • heavy cream
    ½ c
  • fresh thyme sprigs
    3
  • freshly squeezed lemon juice
    1 tbsp
  • fresh parsley sprigs for garnish optional

Directions

  1. 1

    Add peppercorns to a zippered food storage bag and seal. Lightly pound with a meat mallet or skillet until peppercorns are broken and cracked. Set aside.

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter to a 12-inch nonstick skillet set over medium heat. Heat until the butter is melted and no longer bubbling. Swirl the pan to combine oil and butter.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Season the chicken with salt and add to the skillet. Cook chicken on both sides until lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and keep warm.

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Add remaining butter and shallot to the skillet. Cook, stirring, until butter melts and shallot is softened, about 1 minute.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Stir in broth, heavy cream, thyme, and cracked peppercorns. Cook, stirring, and bring to a boil. Make sure to stir up any browned bits into the sauce from the bottom of the pan.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Add chicken and any juices from the plate. Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until chicken is no longer pink at the center and juices run clear, 8 to 10 minutes. An instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Divide chicken among 4 plates over rice. Turn the heat back to medium and cook until sauce thickens and darkens a bit, 3 to 5 minutes.

    Step 7
  8. 8

    Stir lemon juice into the sauce and adjust salt to taste. Spoon sauce over chicken and garnish with parsley.

    Step 8

About this Recipe

Indulge in Classic Comfort: Creamy Chicken au Poivre

Elevate your dinner routine with our incredible Chicken au Poivre recipe! This isn't just any chicken dish; it's a culinary experience inspired by the French classic, crafted for home cooks. Imagine tender, juicy boneless, skinless chicken thighs enveloped in a rich, velvety cream sauce, punctuated by the delightful kick of freshly cracked black peppercorns. It's the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making it an unforgettable flavorful chicken dinner.

Our easy Chicken au Poivre comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The secret lies in perfectly searing the chicken thighs to a golden brown, building a robust pan sauce with shallots, chicken broth, and fresh thyme, then finishing it with decadent heavy cream and a bright squeeze of lemon juice. The star, of course, is the generous amount of cracked peppercorns that provide that signature warmth and aromatic punch.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Recipe:

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, perfect for weeknight meals.
  • Bursting with Flavor: A rich, peppery cream sauce that's truly addictive.
  • Versatile Serving: Fantastic over fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta and noodles.

Serving Suggestions & Tips:

For the ultimate meal, serve this creamy chicken au poivre alongside simple sides that can soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce. Consider:

  • Classic pairings: Steamed white rice or egg noodles.
  • Hearty options: Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted potato wedges.
  • Green veggies: Sautéed green beans with almonds or simple blanched asparagus.

Don't skimp on the peppercorns! Freshly cracked makes all the difference in achieving that bold, signature flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions