When those chilly evenings roll in, nothing feels more comforting than the rich aroma of oven-braised chicken enveloping your home. Picture this: tender chicken thighs, nestled among golden baby Yukon potatoes, soaking in a chive and lemon butter sauce that elevates every bite. I stumbled upon this recipe during a week when takeout just wouldn’t cut it, and I needed something hearty yet effortless to warm my soul after a long day.
This dish not only checks all the boxes for flavor and comfort but also proves to be surprisingly simple. With just one skillet required, you can whip up a feast that feels special enough for a gathering, yet cozy enough for a quiet family dinner. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice or pillowy couscous, this Braised Chicken with Potatoes and Chive Butter Sauce will quickly become a weeknight staple you can’t resist. Let’s dive into creating this comforting masterpiece together!
Why is Braised Chicken with Potatoes and Chive Butter Sauce a Must-Try?
Comforting Aroma: The moment you pull this dish from the oven, your home will be filled with an irresistible, heartwarming scent.
Balanced Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked potatoes, and zesty lemon creates a deliciously balanced meal that everyone will love.
Effortless Cooking: With everything prepared in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze! It’s the kind of recipe that keeps your kitchen chaos-free.
Versatile Serving: Whether you prefer it over rice or couscous, this dish adapts to your cravings with ease.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, your friends and loved ones will rave about this comforting classic!
Ready to take your weeknight meals to the next level? Don’t miss out on exploring this delightful recipe!
Braised Chicken with Potatoes Ingredients
• Prepare for a comforting meal with this hearty dish!
For the Chicken
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – provides rich flavor and tenderness; perfect for braising.
- Kosher salt – ensures the chicken is well-seasoned; feel free to adjust to taste.
For the Potatoes
- Baby Yukon gold potatoes – their creamy texture complements the chicken beautifully.
For the Flavor Base
- Extra-virgin olive oil – ideal for searing; adds a deep, rich flavor to your dish.
- Large shallots – adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves – infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic goodness.
- Chicken stock – keeps everything moist and adds savory richness.
- Lemon slices – brightens the dish; elevates the flavors of the braised chicken.
- Lemon juice – enhances the fresh, zesty profile of the braised chicken with potatoes and chive butter sauce.
For the Finishing Touches
- Salted butter – brings a delicious creaminess to the sauce.
- Freshly cracked black pepper – adds a hint of spice to your final dish.
- Fresh chives – a vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.
Optional Serving Suggestions
- Cooked rice – a comforting base to soak up the sauce.
- Couscous – a light, fluffy alternative that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
How to Make Braised Chicken with Potatoes
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Preheat the oven to 400°F with a rack in the center position. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that lovely golden-brown skin on your chicken.
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Boil a pot of salted water and add the potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes or until just fork-tender. Drain them, let them cool, and then slice in half.
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Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet or braiser over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs all over with kosher salt for deep flavor.
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Sear the chicken, skin side down, for 4-5 minutes until the skin is beautifully browned. Flip and sauté for another 3 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate so it stays warm.
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Brown the potatoes in the same skillet, cut sides down, for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Once done, move them to the plate with the chicken. Repeat until all the potatoes are fried to golden perfection.
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Cook the shallots in the skillet, stirring for about 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
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Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Gently nestle the chicken back in, skin side up, alongside the potatoes, and top it all with lemon slices.
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Bake in the oven for about 35 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the potatoes are tender. After that, transfer the chicken to a plate.
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Stir in the lemon juice and butter until melted and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. Return the chicken to the delightful sauce, garnishing with pepper and chives.
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Serve family-style over a bed of warm rice or fluffy couscous for a comforting meal everyone will adore.
Optional: Pair with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Braised Chicken with Potatoes Variations
Get ready to explore some delicious twists that will bring a fresh spin to your comforting dish!
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Herb-Infused: Substitute chives with fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic flavor boost. These herbs lend a delightful earthy note that sings with the chicken.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic and shallots for a gentle heat. It will elevate the dish without overpowering the comforting base of flavors.
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Vegetarian Style: Swap the chicken for hearty, pan-seared mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead. This creates a stunning dish for non-meat eaters while keeping all that comforting goodness.
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Citrus Burst: Incorporate orange slices along with the lemon for a tangy twist that brightens the entire dish. The citrus will work harmoniously with the butter sauce, making every bite sing.
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Unique Potatoes: Try using sweet potatoes or fingerling potatoes for a sweet, nutty flavor difference. Their creamy texture will complement the dish nicely and add an unexpected touch.
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Creamy Sauce: Whisk in a splash of heavy cream to the butter sauce for extra richness. This adaptation transforms the sauce into a luscious dream that you’ll want to soak up with every bite.
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Nutty Flavor: Top it off with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds before serving. This simple addition introduces a lovely crunch and a nutty depth that enhances the dish’s overall experience.
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One-Pan Wonder: Add chopped seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the skillet when you roast the chicken for a colorful, nutritious touch. They will soak up all that delicious sauce too!
How to Store and Freeze Braised Chicken with Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the chicken cool completely before sealing.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze braised chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary for moisture. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of your braised chicken with potatoes and chive butter sauce again!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety; leftovers should be refrigerated promptly.
Expert Tips for Braised Chicken with Potatoes
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Choose Wisely: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs; they retain moisture and flavor during braising, giving you tender, juicy meat.
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Perfectly Browned: Ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the chicken and potatoes; this prevents steaming and helps achieve a beautiful, crispy skin.
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Season Well: Don’t be shy with the kosher salt! Proper seasoning at each step, especially the chicken, enhances the overall flavor of the braised chicken with potatoes and chive butter sauce.
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Resting Time: Let the chicken rest briefly after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
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Taste and Adjust: Always taste the sauce before serving. A little extra lemon juice or salt can take the flavors to new heights!
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Make It Your Own: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like carrots or green beans for extra color and nutrition—they’ll soak up the delicious sauce too!
What to Serve with Braised Chicken with Potatoes?
To create a memorable meal alongside your cozy chicken dish, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, they soak up the delicious chive butter sauce beautifully, adding richness to each bite.
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Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and savory garlic flavor provide a delicious contrast that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
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Fresh Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the hearty main dish beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted to caramelized perfection, bring sweetness and a touch of earthiness to your table.
A light and crunchy slaw can also brighten up this dish; toss in some citrus for a tangy freshness that cuts through the richness.
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Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and lightly seasoned, broccolis’ crisp texture harmonizes with the tender chicken, providing vibrant color to your plate.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine enhances the complex flavors of the braised chicken with potatoes, elevating your meal into a fine dining experience.
Don’t forget about dessert! A simple apple tart will round out the evening on a sweet note.
Make Ahead Options
These Braised Chicken with Potatoes and Chive Butter Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can boil and cut the baby Yukon gold potatoes, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, season and sear the chicken thighs, letting them rest until you’re ready to bake—this can be done up to 24 hours ahead. Just remember to store them covered in the fridge to preserve their flavor and moisture. When it’s time to serve, simply follow the final steps—combine the chicken and potatoes in the skillet, add the broth, and bake until everything is delightfully tasty. This way, you’ll have a comforting dinner ready with minimal effort!
Braised Chicken with Potatoes and Chive Butter Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! Go for baby Yukon gold potatoes. They have a creamy texture and hold up beautifully when braised, adding to the dish’s overall comfort and flavor. Look for potatoes that are firm and yellow in color, avoiding any that have dark spots or blemishes.
What is the best way to store leftover braised chicken?
For storing leftovers, place the braised chicken with potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Remember to let the dish cool completely before sealing it; this helps maintain its deliciousness and prevents condensation from forming inside the container.
Can I freeze braised chicken with potatoes?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooled braised chicken and potatoes into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible, then seal. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge, and simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken stock to bring back the moisture.
What if my chicken isn’t browning properly?
Very! Make sure that the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken; it should sizzle immediately upon contact. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of brown. If needed, you can cook in batches to allow for that perfect golden skin.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, this recipe is gluten-free as is. However, it does contain dairy from butter, so consider using a dairy-free alternative if needed. Always check that your chicken stock is gluten-free if that’s a concern, too.
How is the sauce thickened in this recipe?
This dish creates a rich sauce primarily through the emulsion of the butter stirred in at the end. For a thicker sauce, you can also mash a few of the potatoes directly into the liquid or let it simmer uncovered for an additional few minutes before serving. This will ensure maximum flavor and the perfect consistency.
Braised Chicken with Potatoes and Chive Butter Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F with a rack in the center position.
- Boil a pot of salted water and add the potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until just fork-tender, then drain and slice in half.
- Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with kosher salt.
- Sear the chicken skin side down for 4-5 minutes until browned. Flip and sauté for another 3 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
- Brown the potatoes in the same skillet for 1-2 minutes cut sides down, then transfer to the plate with chicken.
- Cook the shallots in the skillet for 2-3 minutes until browned. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Nestle the chicken back in with the potatoes and top with lemon slices.
- Bake for about 35 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and potatoes are tender. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Stir in lemon juice and butter until melted. Taste and season with more salt if needed, and return chicken to the sauce.
- Serve family-style over warm rice or couscous.