Hello there! Are you in search of a satisfying and scrumptious meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than my Ultimate Hunter’s Chicken Recipe! This classic British dish combines tender chicken with a deliciously rich tomato sauce and smoky bacon. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also the perfect comfort food for anyone who wants to enjoy a hearty and mouthwatering meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious home-cooked meal, my easy-to-follow Hunter’s Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. So, let’s get started and I’ll show you how to create the ultimate hunters chicken recipe that will impress your family and friends!

Hunter’s Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious chicken recipe, look no further than the classic British dish of Hunter’s Chicken. Also known as Chicken Chasseur, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich tomato sauce and smoky bacon, making it the ultimate comfort food option.

Hunter’s chicken is a favourite in the UK, often served with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread. It’s a dish that’s easy to make and is perfect for impressing guests or satisfying a personal craving.

In this section, I’ll guide you through the essentials of preparing this mouthwatering dish, from the ingredients to the preparation steps.

Ingredients for Hunter’s Chicken

To make the ultimate Hunter’s Chicken, you’ll need the following combination of delicious ingredients:

These ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cosy night in or a dinner party. The combination of chicken thighs, bacon, and mushrooms with the rich tomato sauce is a match made in heaven.

Using this chicken thigh recipe for Hunter’s Chicken is sure to please anyone looking for a wholesome, hearty meal rich in flavour.

How To Make Hunter’s Chicken?

Preparing the Chicken

To make a delicious Hunter’s Chicken, it’s essential to prepare the chicken thighs correctly. Here’s how I do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a pan on medium-high heat, then sear the chicken thighs until they turn golden brown, ensuring that each side is cooked evenly to achieve a crispy texture and to seal in the juices. This will take approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the pan and set them aside.

This step is crucial to ensuring your Hunter’s Chicken tastes amazing. The searing process adds a depth of flavor and chi crispiness to the chicken, which will make the final dish even more delicious and irresistible.

If you’re looking to switch up your recipe, you can try cooking the chicken on the barbecue for a smoky taste.

Making the Tomato Sauce

Now that the chicken thighs are ready, it’s time to move on to the tasty tomato sauce that gives Hunter’s Chicken its signature flavor.

In the same pan that you cooked the chicken, add the bacon and cook until crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside to use later.

Next, add the onions and garlic to the pan and sauté them until they are soft and translucent. Then, add the mushrooms and continue to cook until they have also softened and reduced in size.

At this point, you can add a generous pinch of fresh thyme leaves to the mixture to add depth and flavor to the sauce.

Now it’s time to add the key ingredients that give Hunters Chicken its rich taste. Pour in the tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and a pinch of brown sugar, and stir well until everything is fully combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

At this point, you can taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a pinch of salt or black pepper.

This homemade tomato sauce is the perfect addition to this classic dish, adding succulent flavor and depth to the tender chicken thighs. Time to combine the chicken and sauce in the next step!

Combining the Chicken and Sauce

Now, it’s time to bring together the star of the dish: the chicken, and the delicious tomato sauce. Once the tomato sauce is ready, place the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, making sure they are fully coated in the sauce. This ensures that every bite of chicken is packed with flavor.

For the next step, I like to use a cast-iron pan that can be transferred from the stovetop to the oven. Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

“The aroma of the chicken cooking in the tomato sauce is irresistible and will fill your kitchen with a delicious smell.”

It’s important to check that the chicken is fully cooked before serving, as undercooked chicken can be harmful. The best way to check is by slicing into the thickest part of the chicken thigh and ensuring that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink.

Step By Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Take the chicken thighs and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

3. Heat a pan over medium-high heat.

4. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pan and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.

5. Ensure each side is cooked evenly to achieve a crispy texture and seal in the juices.

6. Once browned, remove the chicken thighs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

7. In the same pan that you used for the chicken, add chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy.

8. Once cooked, remove the bacon and set it aside for later.

9. Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until they are soft and translucent.

10. Stir in sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they soften and reduce in size.

11. Add a generous pinch of fresh thyme leaves to the mixture for added flavor.

12. Add tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and a pinch of brown sugar to the pan.

13. Stir well to combine all ingredients and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

14. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or black pepper to your preference.

15. Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, ensuring they are fully coated in the tomato sauce.

16. If using, transfer the mixture to a cast-iron pan (if not already in one).

17. Cover the pan with a lid or aluminium foil.

18. Place the covered pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Before serving, check that the chicken is fully cooked by slicing into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.

BBQ Chicken Variation

If you’re a fan of BBQ and want to give the classic Hunter’s Chicken recipe a twist, try making this smoky and slightly tangy BBQ chicken variation. It’s easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings or BBQ nights.

To prepare this delicious variation, you’ll need to mix your favorite BBQ sauce with the tomato sauce used in the Hunter’s Chicken recipe. Simply follow the same steps as before, but instead of adding the regular tomato sauce, whisk in your desired amount of BBQ sauce to add a new level of flavor to the dish.

The result is a succulent and finger-licking dish that will leave everyone wanting more. To make it even more enticing, serve it hot, garnished with some chopped parsley and accompanied by some coleslaw or a fresh salad.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce to suit your taste. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors or make your own to get a unique and personalized taste.

This simple variation shows how versatile Hunters Chicken is, and how with a few tweaks, you can transform a classic recipe into something that you and your guests will love.

Serving Hunters Chicken

After your Hunter’s Chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up! Remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle and ensure that your chicken is juicy, tender, and delicious. For sides, you can’t go wrong with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh mixed greens salad.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also turn this dish into a barbecue chicken recipe. Simply brush your favorite homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce onto the chicken during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for a smoky and tangy twist.

With its easy chicken recipe and delicious flavors, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead and impress your friends and family with this ultimate Hunter’s Chicken recipe!

Tips and Variations

If you’re looking to add some extra flair to your Hunter’s Chicken recipe, try out these tips and variations:

Add Cheese

During the final few minutes of baking, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the chicken for a melted, cheesy twist. Cheddar or Parmesan work great for this. This simple addition elevates your classic Hunter’s Chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness – your taste buds will thank you!

Spice It Up

If you’re a fan of spicy food, try adding some chopped chili peppers to the tomato sauce mixture. This adds an extra kick and complements the smoky flavors of the bacon and Worcestershire sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Try a BBQ Variation

If you’re in the mood for a summery BBQ twist on this classic dish, mix your favorite BBQ sauce with the tomato sauce. The result is a sticky, tangy, and finger-licking Hunters Chicken version that’s perfect for outdoor parties or cozy nights in. Serve with a side of corn on the cob or grilled veggies for a complete BBQ feast.

Remember, the beauty of cooking is that you can adjust and experiment with flavors to create your own unique Hunters Chicken recipe. So feel free to let your imagination run wild and make it your own!

Famous Chef’s Hunter Recipes

James Martin Hunter’s Chicken

Instructions:

1. Marinade the Chicken: Mix together olive oil, garlic, thyme, and salt. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a pan, heat some olive oil and sauté onions until they turn translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until they start to brown. Stir in tomatoes, red wine, and chicken stock. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the grilled chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Difference: James Martin’s version emphasizes grilling the chicken first and using a red wine and tomato-based sauce for a rich flavor.

Jamie Oliver Hunter’s Chicken

Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large pan, cook bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same pan, cook the chicken breasts in the bacon fat until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Add onions and garlic to the pan and sauté until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture. Stir in balsamic vinegar, passata, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken breasts to the pan, cover them with the sauce, and top with the cooked bacon.
6. Bake: Transfer the pan to a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a green salad.

Difference: Jamie Oliver’s version includes cooking the chicken in bacon fat for extra flavour and uses balsamic vinegar and passata in the sauce.

Morrisons Hunter’s Chicken

Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and a bit of chicken stock.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
6. Serve: Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve with fries or a side salad.

Difference: Morrisons’ version is simpler, focusing on wrapping the chicken in bacon and using BBQ sauce for a straightforward, smoky flavour.

Leftover Ideas

If you happen to have any leftovers from this delicious hunter’s chicken recipe, don’t worry! There are plenty of ways to enjoy them.

• Dice the leftover chicken and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. This is a quick and easy lunch option that will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Use the leftover tomato sauce as a base for pasta dishes. Simply cook your favorite pasta and mix it with the sauce for a delicious and easy meal.
• Top grilled vegetables with the leftover tomato sauce for an extra burst of flavor. This is a healthy side dish option that pairs perfectly with any meal.

Get creative and explore different ways to use your hunters chicken leftovers. With a little imagination, you can transform this classic recipe into new and exciting dishes that will never get old.

Conclusion

As a professional copywriting journalist, I highly recommend trying out this ultimate Hunter’s Chicken recipe. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, smoky bacon, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is a must-try for any chicken lover. And with the tips and variations provided, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your personal taste.

So why not grab your apron and give this hunters chicken recipe a go? I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

FAQ

What is Hunter’s Chicken?

Hunter’s Chicken, also known as Chicken Chasseur, is a popular British dish that combines tender chicken with a rich tomato sauce and smoky bacon. It’s often served with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

What ingredients do I need to make Hunter’s Chicken?

To make Hunter’s Chicken, you will need chicken thighs, streaky bacon, onions, garlic, mushrooms, thyme, chicken stock, tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.

How do I prepare the chicken for Hunter’s Chicken?

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in a hot pan until golden brown. Remove the chicken thighs from the pan and set them aside.

How do I make the tomato sauce for Hunter’s Chicken?

In the same pan, cook the bacon until crispy. Then, add the onions, garlic, and mushrooms and cook until softened. Stir in the thyme, tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and brown sugar. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

How do I combine the chicken and sauce for Hunter’s Chicken?

Once the tomato sauce is ready, place the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, making sure they are fully coated in the sauce. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and cook for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

Can I make a BBQ chicken variation of Hunter’s Chicken?

Yes, you can easily turn this Hunter’s Chicken recipe into a BBQ chicken variation by mixing your favorite BBQ sauce with the tomato sauce before adding it to the chicken. This will give it a smoky and slightly tangy flavor.

How should I serve Hunter’s Chicken?

Once your Hunter’s Chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve it with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side of mixed greens. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways.

Do you have any tips or variations for Hunter’s Chicken?

Certainly! You can add a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the chicken during the final minutes of baking for a cheesy twist. If you prefer a spicier version, add some chopped chili peppers to the tomato sauce. Feel free to experiment and adapt the recipe to suit your personal taste.

What can I do with leftover Hunter’s Chicken?

Leftover Hunter’s Chicken can be diced and used in sandwiches, wraps, or salads. The tomato sauce can also be used as a base for pasta dishes or as a topping for grilled vegetables. Get creative and make the most out of your delicious leftovers.

Is Hunter’s Chicken a difficult recipe to make?

Not at all! This Hunter’s Chicken recipe is easy to make, even for beginner cooks. It requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Just follow the recipe instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

Hunter's Chicken Recipe

Freya

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is a must-try for any chicken lover. And with the tips and variations provided, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your personal taste.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 2 people

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces Chicken thighs
• 4-5 rashers Streaky bacon
• 2 medium-sized Onions finely chopped
• 3-4 cloves Garlic finely chopped
• 8 oz Mushrooms sliced
• 1 tablespoon Thyme finely chopped
• 1 cup Chicken stock
• 1/4 cup Tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Brown sugar

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Take the chicken thighs and season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Heat a pan over medium-high heat.
• Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pan and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
• Ensure each side is cooked evenly to achieve a crispy texture and seal in the juices.
• Once browned, remove the chicken thighs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
• In the same pan that you used for the chicken, add chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy.
• Once cooked, remove the bacon and set it aside for later.
• Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until they are soft and translucent.
• Stir in sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they soften and reduce in size.
• Add a generous pinch of fresh thyme leaves to the mixture for added flavor.
• Add tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock, and a pinch of brown sugar to the pan.
• Stir well to combine all ingredients and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or black pepper to your preference.
• Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, ensuring they are fully coated in the tomato sauce.
• If using, transfer the mixture to a cast-iron pan (if not already in one).
• Cover the pan with a lid or aluminium foil.
• Place the covered pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
• Before serving, check that the chicken is fully cooked by slicing into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.

Keyword hunters chicken recipe