Herbs de Provence is a fragrant blend of dried herbs that brings a touch of the French countryside right to our kitchen. This classic mix typically includes thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lavender, creating a perfect balance of earthy and floral notes. When paired with chicken, it transforms a simple dish into something truly special.
We love how easy it is to elevate everyday meals with this aromatic seasoning. Whether roasted, grilled, or pan-seared, chicken infused with Herbs de Provence offers a deliciously savory experience that’s both comforting and elegant. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Herbs De Provence Recipe Chicken, we need carefully selected ingredients that highlight the vibrant flavors of this classic herb blend. Below are the essential components broken down for clarity and ease of use.
Herbs De Provence Blend
Our homemade Herbs de Provence blend combines aromatic herbs that bring out the authentic taste of Southern France in every bite. Use the following dried herbs to mix your own fragrant seasoning:
| Herb | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Thyme | 1 tablespoon | Dried, crumbled |
| Rosemary | 1 tablespoon | Dried, finely chopped |
| Oregano | 1 tablespoon | Dried |
| Lavender | 1 teaspoon | Culinary grade, dried (optional) |
| Marjoram | 1 teaspoon | Dried |
| Basil | 1 teaspoon | Dried |
| Savory | 1 teaspoon | Dried (optional) |
Tip: Mix these herbs in a small bowl before applying to ensure an even, consistent flavor.
Chicken Pieces
Choose quality chicken pieces that will absorb the Herbs de Provence flavors beautifully. We recommend:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- Alternatively, 1 whole chicken cut into 8 pieces
The skin-on pieces will crisp nicely while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Additional Seasonings and Ingredients
To elevate the Herbs De Provence Recipe Chicken, these complementary ingredients add depth, moisture, and balance:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps herb mixture adhere and promotes crispy skin
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds savory pungency
- 1 lemon – Zested and juiced for brightness
- Salt – 1½ teaspoons, preferably kosher salt for seasoning
- Black pepper – 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth – For deglazing and moisture during roasting
This combination ensures every bite bursts with classic French-inspired flavors.
Equipment Needed
To master the Herbs De Provence Recipe Chicken, having the right equipment is essential. Using proper tools ensures that our chicken cooks evenly, the herbs infuse perfectly, and the dish delivers that classic French aroma and taste.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Cast iron skillet or oven-safe skillet
We recommend a heavy-bottomed, oven-safe skillet to sear the chicken and finish cooking it in the oven. This helps develop a crispy skin while locking in juices.
- Mixing bowl
For combining the Herbs de Provence blend, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper before marinating the chicken.
- Measuring spoons
Accurate measurement of herbs and seasonings ensures consistent flavor in every batch.
- Sharp chef’s knife
For cutting the chicken pieces and slicing garlic and lemon.
- Tongs
To handle chicken pieces safely while searing without piercing the skin.
- Basting brush
To evenly apply the herb marinade on the chicken, enhancing flavor penetration.
- Oven thermometer (optional)
Ensures the oven temperature stays accurate for perfect roasting.
Additional Helpful Tools
- Cutting board
Use a sturdy board for prepping chicken and herbs.
- Small food processor or mortar and pestle
Handy for grinding dried herbs freshly if you prefer a more potent Herbs de Provence blend.
- Aluminum foil
To tent the chicken if needed during resting after roasting.
Equipment Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Cast iron or oven-safe skillet | Sear and roast chicken for crispy skin | Heavy-bottomed, retains heat |
| Mixing bowl | Combine marinade ingredients | Medium size |
| Measuring spoons | Precise herb and seasoning measurement | Standardized sizes |
| Chef’s knife | Cut chicken and prep aromatics | Sharp, durable blade |
| Tongs | Safely turn chicken pieces while cooking | Heat-resistant grip |
| Basting brush | Evenly coat marinade | Silicone or natural bristles |
| Oven thermometer (optional) | Monitor oven temperature | Analog or digital |
| Cutting board | Provide safe prep surface | Non-slip and spacious |
| Food processor / mortar & pestle | Grind herbs freshly to enhance flavor | Compact and easy to clean |
| Aluminum foil | Tent chicken while resting | Heavy duty recommended |
With our Herbs De Provence Recipe Chicken, these tools make all the difference. We encourage gathering these essentials before starting the recipe to streamline our cooking process and guarantee delicious results every time.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking our Herbs De Provence Recipe Chicken, let’s prepare the essential components carefully to ensure the flavors meld perfectly with the chicken. This preparation step sets a strong foundation for a deliciously aromatic and tender dish.
Preparing the Herbs De Provence Blend
We begin by creating the signature Herbs de Provence blend to infuse the chicken with authentic French flavors. To do this:
- Combine dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender, marjoram, basil, and savory in a small mixing bowl.
- Use equal parts of each herb for a balanced taste, typically 1 teaspoon each unless otherwise specified.
- For a finer texture and deeper aroma, lightly crush the herbs using a mortar and pestle or pulse them briefly in a food processor.
- Store the blend in an airtight container if you prepare it in advance; it will stay potent for up to 3 months.
Tip: Crushing the herbs just before using releases essential oils, making the flavors more vibrant and fresh.
| Herb | Quantity (Teaspoons) |
|---|---|
| Thyme | 1 |
| Rosemary | 1 |
| Oregano | 1 |
| Lavender | 1 |
| Marjoram | 1 |
| Basil | 1 |
| Savory | 1 |
Preparing the Chicken
Preparing the chicken properly ensures it absorbs every bit of the herbal goodness and cooks evenly:
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up beautifully when cooking.
- Trim any excess fat or loose skin while keeping the bone-in, skin-on pieces intact for moisture and flavor retention.
- Score the skin lightly on thighs and drumsticks to allow the herb marinade to penetrate deeper.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper on all sides for a perfect savory balance.
- Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and the prepared Herbs de Provence blend in a large mixing bowl.
- Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly with the marinade using your hands or a basting brush.
- Let the chicken rest in the marinade for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours refrigerated—this step unlocks the full flavor potential.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly infused Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken with vibrant flavors and juicy texture.
Marinating the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of our homemade Herbs de Provence blend, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk ingredients together until well blended into a smooth marinade.
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes crispy skin.
- Score the skin of each chicken piece lightly with a sharp knife to allow deeper penetration of flavors.
- Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to coat each piece thoroughly, making sure the marinade gets into the scored areas.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 to 6 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat a large cast-iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat.
- Carefully place the marinated chicken pieces skin side down in the skillet, spacing them apart to avoid crowding.
- Sear the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Avoid moving the chicken during this time to develop a proper sear.
- Flip the chicken pieces and cook the other side for 3 minutes.
- Add ½ cup dry white wine or chicken broth to the skillet to deglaze and create moisture for roasting.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Roast the chicken uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached and juices run clear.
- Remove the skillet from the oven and lightly tent the chicken with aluminum foil.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes to lock in juices and finish cooking gently.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 400°F (200°C) |
| Initial Sear Time | 5–7 minutes (skin side down) |
| Flip and Sear Time | 3 minutes |
| Roasting Time | 25–30 minutes |
| Resting Time | 10 minutes |
| Internal Chicken Temp | 165°F (74°C) |
Resting the Chicken After Cooking
Once the Herbs de Provence chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), resist the urge to cut into it immediately. Resting the chicken is a crucial final step to ensure every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Why Rest the Chicken?
During cooking, the juices inside the chicken move toward the center. If we cut the chicken right away, these flavorful juices will spill out, leaving the meat dry. Allowing the chicken to rest redistributes the juices, making the meat tender and moist throughout.
How to Rest the Chicken Properly
- Transfer the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the skillet or roasting pan using tongs or a spatula. Place it on a large plate or cutting board.
- Tent with Foil: Loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil. This keeps the chicken warm without trapping steam, which could soften the crispy skin.
- Rest Time: Let the chicken sit undisturbed for 10 to 15 minutes before carving. This time frame allows the juices to settle perfectly.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer the chicken | Move to plate or board | Prepares for resting |
| Tent with foil | Cover loosely | Retains heat, avoids sogginess |
| Rest for 10-15 min | Let stand undisturbed | Redistributes juices |
Additional Tips
- Avoid covering the chicken tightly to preserve the crispy Herbs de Provence crust.
- Use the resting time to prepare any side dishes or sauces.
- Check the chicken temperature again if unsure—the rest period slightly raises internal temperature.
By following these steps, our Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken will be succulent, tender, and a true delight at the table.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken, pairing it with complementary sides enhances both flavor and presentation. Here are our top serving suggestions to create a balanced and delicious meal.
Classic French-Inspired Sides
- Ratatouille: A vibrant mixture of sautéed zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions. The herbs in ratatouille echo the Herbs de Provence flavors, creating harmony on the plate.
- Herbed Rice or Couscous: Light, fluffy couscous or rice tossed with fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil provides a bright, simple base that absorbs the chicken’s savory juices.
- Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and tender inside, roasted with garlic and a sprinkle of Herbs de Provence for an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh, Light Accompaniments
- Green Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette: Crisp mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed in a tangy mustard vinaigrette balance the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: Lightly steamed and finished with a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of salt deliver fresh, crisp texture.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Pairing a dry white wine or light red accentuates the earthy Herbs de Provence notes:
| Wine Type | Characteristics | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp, citrusy, and light | Cuts through richness and complements herbs |
| Pinot Noir | Light-bodied, fruity, and smooth | Enhances earthy, herbal flavors |
| Rosé | Dry, with floral and berry notes | Refreshing contrast with savory chicken |
“Serving our Herbs de Provence Chicken with these sides and wine options elevates your meal effortlessly — perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.“
Serving Tips
- Plate presentation: Arrange the chicken with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary on top for visual appeal.
- Sauce or jus: Spoon some pan juices or a reduced white wine sauce over the chicken for added moisture and depth.
- Warm plates: Serve on warm plates to keep the chicken succulent longer.
With these Serving Suggestions, we bring out the best in our Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken, offering a memorable dining experience infused with classic French charm.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Proper storing and reheating of our Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken ensures we enjoy juicy flavorful bites even after the first meal. Follow these steps to maintain the dish’s deliciousness and food safety.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool the chicken completely before storing. Let it sit at room temperature for no more than 2 hours.
- Use an airtight container or wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out and absorption of other fridge odors.
- Store in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- For maximum freshness, consume leftovers within 3 to 4 days.
- To extend shelf life, freeze chicken in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date for reference.
| Storage Type | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 40°F (4°C) or less | 3 to 4 days |
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) or less | Up to 3 months |
Reheating Leftovers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to reheat chicken evenly while preserving moisture and crispy skin.
- Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish; cover loosely with foil to avoid drying out.
- Reheat for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For quicker reheating, use the microwave on medium power, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking and drying. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture.
- Avoid reheating multiple times to keep the dish safe and flavorful.
“Resting the chicken again after reheating for 5 minutes allows juices to redistribute, preserving tenderness and vibrant herb notes.”
By following these storing and reheating tips, our Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken will remain a satisfying meal even as leftovers.
Conclusion
Herbs de Provence Recipe Chicken brings a touch of French elegance to any meal with its aromatic blend and simple preparation. By mastering this recipe, we can enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and special gatherings.
With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, creating this classic dish becomes effortless and rewarding. It’s a wonderful way to elevate our cooking and impress those at our table with minimal fuss.
Let’s keep exploring these timeless flavors and make every chicken dinner a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herbs de Provence?
Herbs de Provence is a blend of dried herbs typical of French cuisine, usually including thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender, marjoram, basil, and savory. It adds a fragrant, savory flavor to dishes, especially chicken.
Which chicken cuts work best for this recipe?
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks or a whole chicken cut into pieces are ideal. These cuts absorb the herb flavors well and stay juicy when cooked.
How do I make the Herbs de Provence blend at home?
Combine equal parts of dried thyme, rosemary, oregano, lavender, marjoram, basil, and savory. Crush the herbs slightly to release the aroma before using.
What kitchen tools are essential for this recipe?
A cast iron or oven-safe skillet, mixing bowl, measuring spoons, sharp chef’s knife, tongs, and a basting brush are essential. Optional tools include a cutting board, mortar and pestle or food processor, and aluminum foil.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least one hour in a mixture of Herbs de Provence, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to maximize flavor absorption.
What temperature should I cook the chicken at?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Sear the chicken first, then roast until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
Why is resting the chicken important after cooking?
Resting lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making the chicken tender and juicy instead of dry. Tent it with foil and rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Herbs de Provence chicken?
Classic French sides like ratatouille, herbed rice or couscous, roasted baby potatoes, green salad with Dijon vinaigrette, and steamed asparagus or green beans complement the dish well.
Which wines pair best with this dish?
Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Rosé are excellent choices. These wines complement the herbal and citrusy notes of the chicken dish.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Cool leftovers completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven to retain moisture and crispy skin, then rest before serving.