Name: James Martin's Tarragon Chicken Recipe
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 6 chicken breasts; 1½ tbsp runny honey; Vegetable oil (for browning); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 112 ml medium dry white wine; 225 ml chicken stock; 3 sprigs tarragon; 225 ml double cream; 3 tbsp chopped tarragon

James Martin’s Tarragon Chicken is a wonderfully simple and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The key ingredient, tarragon, adds a unique and aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also a great way to introduce a special touch to your everyday cooking. It’s ideal for those who love to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish!

Why You Should Try This Recipe:

The Tarragon Chicken recipe offers several benefits, making it a great choice for both everyday meals and special occasions:

Nutritional Value: Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. Including it in your diet supports overall health and wellness.

Herbal Goodness: Tarragon, a key ingredient in this recipe, is not just flavorful but also packed with antioxidants. It has potential digestive benefits and can add a unique aroma to the dish.

Heart-Healthy Fats: The use of ingredients like olive oil or vegetable oil, which are sources of healthier unsaturated fats, can be beneficial for heart health.

Customizable: You can adapt this recipe to suit dietary needs or preferences. For instance, using low-fat cream or adjusting the amount of oil can make it lighter.

Satiety and Flavor: This dish is satisfying and full of flavor, which can be a delight for those looking to enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal without compromising on taste.

How to Make James Martin’s Tarragon Chicken Recipe Overview:

This Tarragon Chicken recipe serves up to six people and takes about 45 minutes to prepare and cook. It features succulent chicken breasts, enhanced with the unique flavor of tarragon and a velvety cream sauce. The dish is a delightful combination of sweet, herby, and creamy notes, paired wonderfully with a medium dry white wine for the sauce. The preparation is straightforward, making it accessible even for those new to cooking.

Ingredients

6 chicken breasts
1½ tbsp runny honey
Vegetable oil, for browning
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

112ml medium dry white wine
225ml chicken stock
3 sprigs tarragon
225 ml double cream
3 tbsp chopped tarragon

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.
Prepare the Chicken: In a roasting tin, add a bit of vegetable oil. Now brown the chicken breasts on both sides. Season with salt and pepper. Then turn them skin side up.
Roast the Chicken: Drizzle the honey over the chicken. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Check if the chicken has cooked through.
Make the Sauce: While the chicken is roasting, you can make the sauce. Take a saucepan and combine the white wine, chicken stock, and sprigs of tarragon. Let it simmer. Reduce slightly. Then add the double cream and reduce again. Reduce until the sauce thickens. Finish by stirring in the chopped tarragon.
Serve: Once the chicken is done, plate it and generously spoon the sauce over. Serve hot.

Nutritional Value (per serving)

Calories: Approximately 400 kcal

Protein: 30g

Fat: 27g (Saturated: 15g)

Carbohydrates: 8g

Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried tarragon instead of fresh in the Tarragon Chicken recipe. However, dried herbs are generally more potent and concentrated than fresh herbs. Therefore, you should use a smaller quantity of dried tarragon for a similar flavor profile.

What can I serve with this dish?

Tarragon Chicken pairs excellently with a variety of sides. For starches, buttery mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf make great choices, as they soak up the flavorful sauce. Complement these with steamed green beans or asparagus for a crisp, colorful addition. A light green salad with a vinaigrette can add freshness to the meal, while crusty French baguette or garlic bread are perfect for savoring every last bit of the creamy sauce. For a beverage, a glass of Chardonnay can beautifully complement this dish.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

To make sure your chicken is cooked just right, you can use a meat thermometer. If it reads 165°F (75°C), you’re good to go. Or, try the old fork-and-knife trick: poke the chicken and peek inside. If the juices are clear and there’s no pink meat, it’s ready to enjoy. It’s all about hitting that sweet spot where it’s perfectly safe to eat and deliciously done.

Can I substitute the wine in the sauce?

You can substitute the wine in the sauce. A common alternative is to use an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth, adding a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity. This substitution maintains the liquid balance in the sauce while providing a similar depth of flavor, making it suitable for those who prefer not to cook with alcohol.

Conclusion

Tarragon Chicken is a splendid dish that combines the comfort of home cooking with a touch of sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do.