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When the leaves began to turn and the air crisped with the promise of fall, I knew it was time for comfort food in my kitchen. That’s when I discovered the delightful charm of Chicken Marengo, a one-pot wonder that effortlessly marries the robust flavors of both French and Italian cuisines. On those cozy evenings, nothing beats the warm, inviting aroma of tender chicken simmering in a rich, tomato-based sauce, enriched with earthy mushrooms and a medley of fresh herbs.

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that transforms ordinary weeknights into memorable gatherings. Ideal for busy individuals looking to infuse some creativity into their dinner routine, Chicken Marengo delivers on flavor without the fuss. So grab your favorite pot and let’s create a masterpiece that will enchant your family and friends, leaving them anticipating your next culinary adventure!

Why will you love Chicken Marengo?

Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pot dish requires minimal prep and clean-up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich, Aromatic Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh herbs creates an enticing aroma that fills your home.
Comfort Food Perfection: Each bite offers a hearty, satisfying experience that warms the soul and delights the palate.
Versatile Accompaniments: Pair it with pasta or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, enhancing your meal even further.
Impressive Yet Effortless: Serve guests a gourmet meal without spending hours in the kitchen—you’ll be the star of the dinner table!

Chicken Marengo Ingredients

For the Chicken

Bone-in Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks – Provides juicy and flavorful results; a must for authentic Chicken Marengo.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and helps tenderize the chicken; use sea salt if you don’t have kosher.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a warm, aromatic spiciness to the dish.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Essential for searing chicken and sautéing vegetables, adding richness to the dish.
Mixed Fresh Mushrooms (e.g., Shiitake, Oyster, Baby Bella) – Imparts umami flavor and texture; avoid dried mushrooms for best results.
Fresh Parsley, Oregano, and Thyme – These fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and complexity to the sauce.
Medium Shallot and Garlic – Aromatics that deepen the flavor profile of the Chicken Marengo.
Tomato Paste – Contributes sweetness and acidity, crafting the rich sauce base.
Dry White Wine – Adds acidity and depth; substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Low-sodium Chicken Broth – Keeps the dish moist while being mindful of sodium content.
Whole Peeled Tomatoes – Creates the sauce foundation; crush them before adding for even flavor distribution.
Castelvetrano Olives (Optional) – Provides a briny flavor to enhance the dish; swap with any pitted green olives if desired.

For Serving

Cooked Pasta or Crusty Bread – Excellent for soaking up the rich sauce and elevating your meal experience.

How to Make Chicken Marengo

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving perfectly cooked chicken and a delicious sauce.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
Heat a splash of olive oil in a large oven-safe pan over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating that it’s ready for the chicken.
Sear the chicken skin-side down for 12-15 minutes until it develops a golden brown crust. Flip the pieces and cook for an additional 2 minutes to crisp the other side.
Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced mixed fresh mushrooms, along with chopped parsley, oregano, and thyme, for about 2 minutes until softened.
Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan, then add sliced shallots and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, approximately 2 minutes.
Mix in the tomato paste, stirring it around for about a minute. Then, pour in the dry white wine and cook until it reduces by half, usually around 2 minutes.
Add low-sodium chicken broth and crushed whole peeled tomatoes to the pan. Return the browned chicken to the pan, skin-side up.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then transfer the pan to the oven. Bake for 40-60 minutes, stirring occasionally every 20 minutes, until the chicken is tender.
Garnish with fresh herbs and optional Castelvetrano olives before serving. Enjoy your Chicken Marengo with cooked pasta or crusty bread to soak up that mouthwatering sauce!

Optional: A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Marengo

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze Chicken Marengo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the sauce is too thick.

Portioning: Consider portioning out servings before freezing to make reheating easier and to enjoy single portions of this delicious one-pot Chicken Marengo!

What to Serve with Chicken Marengo?

Embrace a complete dining experience by pairing this delicious one-pot dish with complementary sides that enhance its rich flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth, buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the hearty chicken and sauce, creating a comforting balance.
Garlic Bread: The crusty texture and rich garlic flavor are perfect for soaking up the luscious tomato sauce, adding a delightful crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, like carrots and zucchini, provide a sweet and earthy element, complementing the umami of the mushrooms.
Quinoa Salad: This light and nutty salad, adorned with fresh herbs and a citrus vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the chicken’s warmth.
Green Beans Almondine: The crisp-tender green beans with toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch that brightens the meal overall.
Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette introduces a peppery bite, countering the richness of Chicken Marengo.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay harmonizes the dish’s flavor profile, showcasing the wine’s dryness against the sauce’s acidity.
Panna Cotta: For dessert, serve a light vanilla panna cotta to cleanse the palate after the hearty main course—a sweet ending to your feast!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Chicken Marengo in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables and mushrooms, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil and follow the searing and sautéing instructions as detailed in the recipe. This way, you’ll enjoy just as delicious results with minimal effort, ensuring a delightful meal awaits when you return home!

Expert Tips for Chicken Marengo

Dry Chicken: Pat your chicken dry before seasoning to achieve that perfect sear and crispy skin.
Scrape the Fond: Don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pan while making the sauce—this releases those delicious flavor bits, enhancing your Chicken Marengo!
Season as You Go: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile.
Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh herbs and mushrooms for the best flavor; fresh ingredients can significantly elevate your Chicken Marengo.
Oven Timing: Keep an eye on the chicken as it bakes; every oven is different, and you want your chicken perfectly tender without drying out.

Chicken Marengo Variations

What better way to make this delightful dish truly your own than by adding your personal twist?

Lemon Zing: Add a splash of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the overall flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and a pop of color without overwhelming the classic flavors.
Pasta Switch: Use orzo or quinoa instead of pasta for a unique texture while keeping it gluten-free.
Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes to the sauce for a warm, spicy finish that gives your Chicken Marengo an exciting twist.
Different Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey thighs or even firm tofu for a leaner, vegetarian-friendly version that’s equally satisfying.
Wine Alternative: If you prefer not to use alcohol, replace white wine with extra chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
Herb Medley: Experiment with different herbs like basil or rosemary for a fresh, aromatic twist that enhances the dish unexpectedly.
Mushroom Variety: Use specialty mushrooms like porcini or morels to elevate the dish with rich umami flavor, creating a delightful experience.

Chicken Marengo Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Chicken Marengo?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks are best for this recipe as they provide juicy and flavorful results. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, skinless chicken can also work well, although it may not be as rich in flavor.

How long can I store Chicken Marengo leftovers?
You can refrigerate Chicken Marengo in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To keep the flavors intact, I recommend reheating it gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze Chicken Marengo?
Yes! You can freeze Chicken Marengo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick after reheating?
If you find the sauce has thickened after reheating, no worries! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Stir well until you achieve your desired consistency, and it’ll be just as delicious as the first time!

Are there any dietary considerations for Chicken Marengo?
Very! Chicken Marengo is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with these dietary restrictions. Always double-check your ingredients, especially with broth and sauce, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

How can I add more vegetables to my Chicken Marengo?
The more the merrier! To boost nutrition, consider adding bell peppers or spinach to the sauté along with your mushrooms. Just toss them in during the cooking process, and they’ll meld beautifully into the flavorful sauce!