When it comes to creating a meal that’s comforting, aromatic, and bursting with flavor, this French Garlic Chicken recipe takes center stage. With 40 cloves of garlic, tender chicken, and fragrant herbs, it’s a dish that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal after church, this recipe pairs beautifully with rice to soak up the rich, garlicky sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: Minimal effort with maximum flavor.
- Perfect for busy days: The slow cooker does all the work while you’re away.
- Packed with flavor: Garlic, wine, and herbs create a taste that’s truly French-inspired.
- Family-friendly: Serve over rice for a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this rustic dish:
- 2 whole heads of garlic (about 40 cloves), peeled
- 6-8 chicken thighs and/or legs (skin-on)
- 3-4 teaspoons butter (about 1/3 stick)
- 1/3 bottle dry white wine (about 1 1/3 cups)
- 1 container chicken broth (32 ounces)
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 whole shallot
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Garlic
Start by peeling two whole heads of garlic, giving you about 40 cloves. Set them aside for later.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken skin-side down in the hot pan and sear for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Work in batches if necessary. Remove the chicken and place it in a crock pot.
3. Deglaze the Pan
Add the garlic cloves to the same pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until golden and aromatic. Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up the browned bits at the bottom. These “grits” are the key to a flavorful sauce.
4. Build the Stew
Pour the garlic, shallot, wine, and all the deglazed pan bits into the crock pot. Add the chicken broth, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and an extra pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crock pot and set it to low. Cook for 4-6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and the garlic to soften into a buttery texture.
6. Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, remove the bay leaves and spoon the chicken and sauce over warm rice. The garlic cloves can be spread on bread or eaten whole for an extra treat.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme elevate the dish.
- Don’t skip the sear: Searing the chicken adds a rich depth of flavor.
- Choose the right wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve this French Garlic Chicken recipe alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete French-inspired meal, pair it with a crusty baguette and a glass of the same wine used in cooking.
This recipe brings the flavors of France into your home, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. Let the comforting aroma fill your kitchen as the slow cooker works its magic. Bon appétit!
