The Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken is a delightful fusion of tender chicken breasts and the aromatic finesse of tarragon herbs, bathed in a creamy, wine-infused sauce. Perfect for those seeking a gourmet dining experience at home, this dish strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort. It promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
With a preparation and cooking time of about 45 minutes, this recipe is designed to serve 4 people, making it an ideal choice for a sumptuous meal that doesn’t keep you tied up in the kitchen all day.
What is Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken?
Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken is a classic dish that combines the subtle aniseed flavor of tarragon with the richness of cream and the depth of white wine, creating a beautifully balanced sauce that complements the succulent chicken breasts. This dish embodies simplicity and elegance, making it a testament to Jamie Oliver’s philosophy of creating delicious, fuss-free meals.
Other Chicken Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tarragon and mustard creates a unique and mouth-watering taste.
- Versatile: It pairs well with various sides, from rice to roasted vegetables.
- Impressive: Ideal for entertaining guests or enjoying a special family meal.
- Healthy Option: Made with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious choice for dinner.
Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 kg or 2.2 lbs)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for frying
- Garlic: 2 cloves, finely chopped
- White Wine: 150 ml (5 fl oz)
- Chicken Stock: 200 ml (7 fl oz)
- Double Cream: 150 ml (5 fl oz)
- Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Tarragon: A handful, finely chopped
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Instructions to Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Step 2 Cook the Chicken
- Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same pan, add the chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the chicken stock and bring to a boil.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Stir in the double cream and Dijon mustard, then add the chopped tarragon.
- Return the chicken breasts to the pan, and simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the chicken with the sauce spooned over the top.
What Do I Serve With Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken?
- Steamed Rice: A perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds a healthy and colorful side.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes complement the dish well.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up the delicious sauce.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tarragon and garlic enhance the dish’s flavor significantly.
- Season Well: Properly season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Deglaze the Pan Properly: Scrape up all the flavorful bits when adding the wine to the pan.
- Simmer Gently: Simmer the sauce over low heat to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth texture.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Maintain Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Incorporate a Little Butter: Adding a knob of butter to the sauce at the end can give it a richer taste.
- Presentation Matters: Garnish with extra tarragon leaves for a fresh and appealing look.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken
- Add Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add a lovely earthy flavor.
- Use Chicken Thighs: For a richer taste, use boneless chicken thighs.
- Add Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest can brighten up the dish.
- Include Vegetables: Add peas or asparagus for a more balanced meal.
How do I Store Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Separate Sauce: Store the sauce separately for better reheating.
How do I Reheat Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken Leftovers?
- Microwave: Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition Value List
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 10% of the DV
- Calcium: 8% of the DV
- Iron: 10% of the DV
FAQs
Can I Use Dried Tarragon Instead of Fresh in Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?
Yes, you can use dried tarragon as a substitute for fresh tarragon in Jamie Oliver’s Tarragon Chicken recipe. However, keep in mind that dried tarragon has a more concentrated flavor than fresh. A general rule of thumb is to use one-third the amount of dried tarragon when replacing fresh. For instance, if the recipe calls for a tablespoon of fresh tarragon, you should use about a teaspoon of dried tarragon instead.
Is There a Non-Alcoholic Substitute for White Wine in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use white wine in the Tarragon Chicken recipe, you can substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth. Adding a teaspoon of lemon juice to the chicken broth can mimic the acidity of the wine, adding a layer of complexity to the sauce without the alcohol.
Can Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, Tarragon Chicken can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Prepare the recipe as instructed, then cool and store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in the oven or on the stove, adding a little extra broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, often resulting in an even tastier dish the next day.
Final Words
The Jamie Oliver Tarragon Chicken recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of comfort cooking, elevated by the distinctive flavor of tarragon. This dish, with its creamy sauce and tender chicken, promises to be a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Remember, the key to perfection lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the care taken during preparation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!