I always reach for my chicken espagnole recipe. This dish brings together bold flavors and tender chicken in the most satisfying way. The sauce, made with tomatoes, onions, and smoky spices, creates a beautiful depth of flavor that I can’t resist.
It’s one of my go-to recipes because it’s easy to make but still feels special. Every time I serve it, it’s met with smiles. I love how the sauce soaks into the chicken, making every bite perfect.
Whether I’m making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish never disappoints. If you’re looking for something flavorful and hearty, this recipe is definitely worth trying.
How To Prepare Chicken Espagnole Recipe?
Quick Facts
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Spanish
Yield: Serves 4
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnis
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Chicken
I always start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper, then sear them skin-side down until they turn beautifully golden brown. This usually takes about 5 minutes. I flip them and cook the other side for another 3 minutes before removing them and setting them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, I toss in the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. I sauté everything until the veggies soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. I make sure to scrape up all the flavorful bits from the bottom — that’s where the magic hides.
3. Add the Garlic and Spices
Once the vegetables are ready, I stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. I cook this mixture for about a minute until my kitchen smells incredible.
4. Build the Sauce
I pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well to combine. Then, I add the bay leaf and bring the sauce to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Chicken
I nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, making sure they’re mostly submerged in the sauce. I cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken cooks through and becomes tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
Before serving, I remove the bay leaf and sprinkle a handful of fresh parsley over the top. The vibrant green against the rich red sauce looks absolutely stunning!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
Serving Suggestions
I love serving Chicken Espagnole Recipe with a side of fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up all that savory sauce.
Crusty bread works wonders too if you’re like me and can’t resist mopping up every last drop. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette rounds out the meal beautifully.
Tips and Variations
- Swap the Chicken: If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid drying them out.
- Spice It Up: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne pepper when I want a little extra kick.
- Make It Smokier: A splash of smoked paprika oil right before serving adds an irresistible smoky finish.
- Vegetarian Twist: You can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like eggplant and chickpeas for a meat-free version.
Health Benefits
Chicken Espagnole Recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s packed with nutrients too! The chicken provides lean protein that supports muscle health, while bell peppers deliver a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Using olive oil instead of butter keeps the dish heart-friendly, and the tomato-based sauce is full of lycopene, known for its cancer-fighting properties.
How to Store Chicken Espagnole
After enjoying your delicious chicken espagnole Recipe, if you happen to have leftovers, it’s easy to store and enjoy again later. Here’s how I do it:
- Cool the dish: Allow the chicken and sauce to cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and maintains the flavor.
- Store in an airtight container: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep it fresh.
- Refrigeration: You can store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, I recommend freezing the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and they will last for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.
Note
For the best results, I always recommend using high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables. And don’t rush the simmering process — that’s when all the flavors come together into pure magic!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this chicken espagnole recipe is the perfect balance of flavors and comfort. The rich, smoky sauce and tender chicken make it a standout dish that’s always a hit. It’s easy to prepare yet feels special enough for any occasion.
I love how the dish brings everyone together around the table, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same once you try it. It’s a recipe that I keep coming back to because it never fails to impress.
I hope you give it a try and enjoy every bite as much as I do. It’s one of those meals that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too!