Poulet Basquaise: A Flavorful Chicken Dish from the Basque Country

Introduction

Poulet Basquaise is a traditional chicken dish from the Basque Country that’s packed with flavor and easy to make at home. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner, a special occasion, or a casual get-together with friends. The dish features tender chicken pieces that are cooked in a rich tomato and pepper sauce with onions, garlic, and a touch of white wine. The flavors are bold and savory, with a hint of spice from the cayenne pepper, and the dish is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Poulet Basquaise for 4 people:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 3 bell peppers, sliced
• 2 onions, sliced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup of white wine
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 2 tbsp of olive oil
• 2 tsp of paprika
• 1 tsp of cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Poulet Basquaise:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers, and cook until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, white wine, and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the tomato and pepper mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened.
8. Serve the Poulet Basquaise hot with crusty bread, rice, or potatoes.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option

To make a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish, simply substitute the chicken with a meat alternative such as seitan or tofu. You can also add additional vegetables such as eggplant or zucchini to the dish to enhance the flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is already gluten-free, but be sure to double-check any ingredients you use to ensure that they are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Poulet Basquaise is a delicious and easy-to-make chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. The bold and savory flavors of the dish are a perfect match for crusty bread, rice, or potatoes. So why not give this recipe a try and experience the rich flavors of the Basque Country in your own home?

FAQ

What is Poulet Basquaise?

Poulet Basquaise is a classic French Basque dish made with chicken, tomatoes, sweet peppers, onions, and Espelette pepper.

Can I use boneless chicken for Poulet Basquaise?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken for Poulet Basquaise. However, using bone-in chicken will add more flavor to the dish.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes, you can use different types of peppers, but using sweet peppers is recommended for this dish. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add some hot peppers as well.

How long does it take to cook Poulet Basquaise?

It takes about 1 hour to cook Poulet Basquaise. However, the actual cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the heat of your stove.

Can I make Poulet Basquaise ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Poulet Basquaise ahead of time and reheat it before serving. In fact, many people believe that the dish tastes even better the next day.

What should I serve with Poulet Basquaise?

Poulet Basquaise is traditionally served with rice or potatoes. A fresh green salad or some crusty bread can also be served as a side dish.

Can I freeze Poulet Basquaise?

Yes, you can freeze Poulet Basquaise. Just make sure to cool it down completely before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones. You will need about 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes for this recipe.

Can I add wine to Poulet Basquaise?

Yes, you can add a splash of red or white wine to Poulet Basquaise to enhance the flavor of the dish. However, this is optional and the dish will still taste great without it.

What is Espelette pepper?

Espelette pepper is a type of chili pepper that is grown in the Basque region of France. It has a mild to medium heat level and a fruity, smoky flavor. If you can’t find Espelette pepper, you can substitute it with paprika or cayenne pepper.