Citron Provençal

Introduction

Citron Provençal is a delightful dish that draws from the rich culinary traditions of the Provence region in France. Renowned for its aromatic landscape, Provence is a culinary goldmine with ingredients like olives, lavender, and citrus fruits thriving beautifully in its Mediterranean climate. Citron Provençal is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together these regional specialties, celebrating the strength and vibrancy of Provençal ingredients.

The use of lemons in this dish is particularly significant as citrus has long been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. The inclusion of lemons not only brings acidity and brightness to the palate but also enhances the rich flavors of other Provençal ingredients.

History of Citron Provençal

The origins of Citron Provençal can be traced back to the soothing and aromatic dishes made by farmers in Provence who relied on local produce to create hearty meals. Lemons, which were introduced to Europe from Asia through trade routes centuries ago, found a natural home in the sun-drenched soils of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.

Over the years, this dish has evolved with varying regional interpretations, but the core ingredients and the simplicity of the recipe have remained constant, emphasizing fresh produce and balanced flavors.

Ingredients

• Lemon (2 large, organic)
• Olive Oil (3 tablespoons)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Fresh Herbs (such as thyme and rosemary, 2 tablespoons chopped)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
• Chicken Breasts (4 pieces)
• Vegetable Broth (1 cup)
• Capers (2 tablespoons)
• White Wine (½ cup)

Preparation

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Set aside to let the seasoning penetrate the meat.

Prepping the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, and the zest of the lemons. Squeeze the juice from the lemons and add it to the mix along with the chopped fresh herbs. Mix well to emulsify.

Marinating Process

Place the seasoned chicken breasts into a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well covered. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Process

First Steps in Cooking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken breasts from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.

Searing the Chicken

Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off excess. Reserve the marinade. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, then sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Creating the Sauce

Once seared, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside. Deglaze the pan with white wine, stirring to lift any brown bits from the bottom. Add the reserved marinade and vegetable broth to the pan, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Final Cooking

Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over the top. Sprinkle capers evenly over the chicken. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Set a cooking timer to ensure you don't overcook the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes. Serve the Citron Provençal with a side of crusty French bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the luscious lemon-herb sauce. A light, crisp salad with seasonal vegetables rings in the authentic Provençal dining experience perfectly.

A glass of chilled white wine pairs beautifully with Citron Provençal, enhancing the citrus notes and cutting through the richness of the dish.

Conclusion

Citron Provençal is more than just a dish; it’s an invitation to savor the Provence lifestyle. The blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs encapsulates the essence of French home-cooking while being both light and satisfying. Enjoy this culinary journey right from your kitchen, connecting you with the timeless traditions of Provence.