Basque-Style Chicken (Poulet Basquaise): A Flavorful and Comforting Recipe

Basque-style chicken, or Poulet Basquaise, is a classic French dish from the Basque region. This flavorful meal combines tender chicken with a rich bell pepper and tomato sauce, enhanced with garlic and onions.

Simple yet refined, it’s a perfect family dinner or a dish to share with friends.

Today, I’ll walk you through an authentic Basque chicken recipe that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow)
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes, 14 oz)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Basque Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash the bell peppers, remove the seeds and white membranes, then slice them into strips.
2. Peel and thinly slice the onion, and mince the garlic.
3. If using fresh tomatoes, peel them by blanching in boiling water for 10 seconds, then dice them.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and cook until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in the bell peppers and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the diced tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and mix well.

Step 4: Simmer with the Chicken

1. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it among the vegetables.
2. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
3. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and paprika, then season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Dish

1. Cover the pan and simmer over low heat for 35-40 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally, ensuring the sauce doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig before serving.
2. Plate each serving with a piece of chicken and a generous scoop of vegetables and sauce.
3. Enjoy warm, paired with your favorite side dish.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 15g
• Fat: 15g

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Chicken: A lean protein source essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Bell Peppers: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, great for the immune system.
• Tomatoes: Contain lycopene, known for heart health benefits.
• Garlic & Onion: Support immune function and have anti-inflammatory properties.
• White Wine: Enhances flavor while keeping the dish light on calories.

Zoé’s Tips for the Perfect Basque Chicken

• Want a thicker sauce? Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste to add more richness.
• For an authentic Basque taste, use only red and green bell peppers, as traditionally done in the region.
• Make it ahead of time! This dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.
• Prefer boneless chicken? Swap for boneless, skinless thighs and reduce cooking time to 25-30 minutes.

Best Pairings for Basque Chicken

• White Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Steamed Potatoes – A lighter, hearty alternative.
• Crusty French Bread – Perfect for dipping into the sauce!
• Sautéed Green Beans – A fresh and healthy vegetable side.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• 🔥 No White Wine? Substitute with chicken broth.
• 🌶 Spicy Basque Chicken: Add a pinch of Espelette pepper for an authentic heat.
• 🌱 Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu or hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini.
• ⏳ Quick Version: Use frozen bell pepper strips and canned tomatoes to save time.

Basque-style chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the warmth of Southern French flavors to your table. Whether for a weeknight meal or a special dinner, this recipe delivers tender chicken, a rich sauce, and incredible taste.

Try it today and bring a taste of the Basque Country to your home!