Chicken Provençal

Chicken a la Provence: A delicious and aromatic recipe, full of tradition

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Chicken a la Provence is a simple yet impressive recipe that will bring Mediterranean flavors straight to your table. This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or for a special occasion when you want to impress your guests. With a perfect combination of spices and fresh ingredients, you will achieve a juicy and flavorful chicken. Let's discover together the necessary steps to prepare this delicacy!

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of Herbes de Provence (a blend of basil, thyme, rosemary, and oregano)
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 lemon (for juice and zest)
- 200 g of cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 100 g of green or black olives, pitted (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the chicken
Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, take the chicken breasts and slice them in half horizontally to create thinner fillets that will cook evenly. Season each piece with salt, pepper, and Herbes de Provence. These spices are essential for adding flavor and character to the dish.

Step 2: Cooking the chicken
Grease a baking dish with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Arrange the chicken fillets in the dish, making sure they do not overlap. If desired, you can also add halved cherry tomatoes and olives for an extra splash of color and flavor. Sprinkle the chopped garlic over the chicken and drizzle with lemon juice. The lemon zest will add an intense aroma. Place the dish in the oven for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

Step 3: Serving
Once the chicken is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is essential, as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier. You can serve Chicken a la Provence alongside a fresh salad or with mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the chicken breast is of high quality. Organic meats are often more flavorful.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, adding them to the dish for an even more colorful preparation.
- If you want to intensify the flavors, you can marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and Herbes de Provence a few hours before cooking.
- For a spicy touch, add some chili flakes to the spice mix.

Chicken a la Provence is not just a simple recipe, but also a window into Mediterranean gastronomy, bringing a touch of sunshine and flavor to your table. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will surely please everyone. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken breast, thighs and drumsticks - 2 tomatoes - 1 large red bell pepper - 1 onion - 1 clove of garlic - olive oil - 2 tablespoons of Herbes de Provence - salt and pepper