French Chicken Tarragon

A classic French dish featuring tender chicken thighs braised in white wine and chicken broth, finished with a creamy tarragon and crème fraîche sauce. The combination of fresh tarragon, shallots, and lemon zest creates an elegant and flavorful meal.

6 servings
2 hr 10 min

Ingredients

  • 6 pieces large chicken thighs
  • 1 to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 whole shallots
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 teaspoons chopped tarragon
  • 1 cup Blond Chicken Broth
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • ½ cup crème fraîche
  • ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Let stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature.

    45 min

  2. 2.

    Heat the oven to 400°F. Put an enameled cast-iron Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the butter and shallots and cook, stirring, until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and chopped tarragon and cook for 1 minute (be careful not to let the garlic brown). Arrange the chicken thighs in the pot in one layer, add the broth and wine, and bring to a simmer.

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Put the lid on and place the pot on the middle shelf of the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, then lower the heat to 350°F and continue baking for 45 minutes, or until the thighs are tender. Put the thighs on a platter, cover loosely, and keep warm.

    60 min

  4. 4.

    Strain the pan juices through a fine sieve into a saucepan and spoon off any rising fat. Place the pan over medium-high heat, add the crème fraîche and lemon zest, and simmer until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

    10 min

  5. 5.

    Spoon the sauce over the chicken, garnish with tarragon leaves, and serve.

    5 min