This French-Style Chicken Dinner Is the Best Thing You’ll Cook All Month

Here’s a recipe for Chicken au Poivre – a classic French dish featuring chicken breasts in a creamy, peppery sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for a special dinner.

Chicken au Poivre

Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
Suggested meal time: Dinner
Serving size: 1 chicken breast

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns, coarsely crushed

• 1/2 cup brandy or cognac (optional, for flambéing)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken breasts with salt. Press the crushed black peppercorns onto both sides of the chicken breasts, coating them evenly.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the crushed peppercorns and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the pepper to bloom in the butter.

   • If using brandy or cognac, carefully add it to the pan and allow it to cook off (you can flambé it by carefully igniting the alcohol with a long lighter or letting it cook off naturally).

   • Once the alcohol is cooked off, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard (if using). Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

4. Finish the Dish:

   • Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. The chicken is delicious with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.

Tips:

• Energy-efficient tip: You can use a lid to cover the pan when simmering the sauce to save energy and speed up the cooking process.

• Who benefits: This dish is perfect for a date night or special occasion, with a rich, creamy sauce that’s sure to impress. It’s also a great option for anyone who loves peppercorns and bold flavors.

Enjoy your Chicken au Poivre – a flavorful, creamy, and perfectly peppery chicken dish!