Classic French Hunter's Chicken

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

Traditional French hunter's chicken combining bone-in chicken with mushrooms in a cognac-tomato sauce flavored with tarragon and parsley.
Casey
Updated on Mon, 20 Jan 2025 20:10:09 GMT
A plate of chicken thighs topped with a savory sauce and accompanied by mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables. Pin it
A plate of chicken thighs topped with a savory sauce and accompanied by mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables. | cookingwithcasey.com

This Chicken Chasseur brings the warmth of French country cooking right to my kitchen. The way that tender chicken mingles with mushrooms in a rich cognac-kissed sauce creates pure magic. Every time I make it the incredible aroma takes me straight to a cozy bistro in France.

What Makes This Special

I love how this dish transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. That golden chicken and savory sauce create the perfect combination of rustic comfort and elegant dining. It's become my go-to when I want to make dinner feel special.

Let's Gather Our Ingredients

  • Chicken: Bone-in pieces give best flavor.
  • Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential.
  • Fats: Olive oil and butter create richness.
  • Mushrooms: Cremini adds earthiness.
  • Aromatics: Shallots and garlic for depth.
  • Liquids: Cognac wine stocks build flavor.
  • Tomatoes: Fresh plus paste for body.
  • Finishing: Fresh herbs and cream balance.

Let's Start Cooking

Golden chicken:
Season well brown until perfect.
Build flavors:
Sauté vegetables deglaze with spirits.
Create the sauce:
Layer tomatoes stocks herbs simmer to perfection.
Bring it home:
Return chicken finish with fresh herbs serve with love.
A plated dish of chicken thighs topped with mushroom gravy, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, served alongside mashed potatoes. Pin it
A plated dish of chicken thighs topped with mushroom gravy, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, served alongside mashed potatoes. | cookingwithcasey.com

My Best Tips

Prep everything before you start it makes cooking so smooth. Don't crowd that pan when browning chicken. Use your thermometer for perfect doneness every time.

Perfect Pairings

I love serving this over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce. A simple green salad on the side keeps everything balanced.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers stay beautiful for several days just reheat gently. A splash of stock brings the sauce back to life. Don't microwave too long or chicken gets tough.

Mix It Up

Try different meats herbs or add pearl onions. The recipe welcomes creativity while keeping its French soul. Each variation brings new excitement to the dish.

A plate of tender chicken thighs in a rich gravy, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed mushrooms, garnished with parsley. Pin it
A plate of tender chicken thighs in a rich gravy, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed mushrooms, garnished with parsley. | cookingwithcasey.com

French Heritage

This dish carries such rich history from French hunters to modern bistros. Knowing its story makes every bite more meaningful connecting us to culinary traditions.

Save Some Time

Prep the sauce ahead when you can. Fresh chicken and a quick reheat creates dinner magic in minutes. Perfect for busy days when you still want something special.

Your Questions Answered

Bone-in chicken really does taste best. Fresh ingredients make the sauce shine. That splash of cognac creates magic but yes you can substitute. Freezes beautifully for future comfort meals.

A Timeless Classic

Chicken Chasseur reminds us why French cuisine endures. Simple ingredients careful technique and layers of flavor create something truly special. It's a dish that brings comfort and elegance to any table.

A plate of tender chicken thighs topped with a rich mushroom and tomato sauce, garnished with herbs, alongside a serving of mashed potatoes. Pin it
A plate of tender chicken thighs topped with a rich mushroom and tomato sauce, garnished with herbs, alongside a serving of mashed potatoes. | cookingwithcasey.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the cognac?
Yes, brandy makes a good substitute, or use additional white wine if avoiding alcohol.
→ Why use both chicken and beef stock?
The combination provides richer flavor depth. Beef stock adds savory notes that complement the mushrooms.
→ Can I use boneless chicken?
While possible, bone-in chicken provides more flavor and helps prevent the meat from drying out during cooking.
→ Why add sour cream?
Sour cream enriches the sauce and adds a subtle tang while helping to thicken it.

Conclusion

Chicken Chasseur is a classic French dish that represents rustic home cooking. This flavorful recipe combines tender chicken pieces with earthy mushrooms in a rich, complex sauce featuring cognac, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.

Chicken Chasseur

Classic French dish featuring chicken and mushrooms in a rich sauce with cognac, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.

Prep Time
45 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
90 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Difficult

Cuisine: French

Yield: 8 Servings (8 pieces)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 3 Russet potatoes.
02 4 tablespoons butter, divided.
03 4 tablespoons olive oil.
04 3 pounds bone-in chicken pieces.
05 2 teaspoons kosher salt.
06 ½ teaspoon black pepper.
07 1 pound cremini mushrooms.
08 ¼ cup shallots, diced.
09 1½ tablespoons garlic, minced.
10 ½ cup cognac or brandy.
11 ½ cup white wine.
12 3 tablespoons tomato paste.
13 2 Roma tomatoes, diced.
14 1½ cups chicken stock.
15 ½ cup beef stock.
16 ¼ cup sour cream.
17 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon.
18 2 tablespoons fresh parsley.

Instructions

Step 01

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Optional: prepare mashed potatoes.

Step 02

Cook chicken in butter and oil 8 minutes per side until done. Remove and cover.

Step 03

In same pan, cook mushrooms 3 minutes. Add shallots and garlic for 1 minute.

Step 04

Add cognac, then wine and reduce. Add tomatoes, stocks and sour cream. Simmer until thickened.

Step 05

Stir in tarragon and butter. Return chicken to pan. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

  1. Can use breasts or thighs.
  2. Traditionally served with mashed potatoes.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 561
  • Total Fat: 39 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 9 g
  • Protein: 32 g