Indulge in the vibrant flavors of French Guiana with Poulet Basquaise, a delectable culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken with a medley of colorful bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and aromatic herbs. Originating from the Basque region of France, this dish has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of French Guiana, offering a tantalizing fusion of French and Creole influences. Served with a side of fluffy rice or crusty baguette, Poulet Basquaise promises a satisfying and unforgettable gastronomic experience, embodying the rich cultural tapestry of this captivating South American territory.

Here's a recipe for Poulet Basquaise:

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 green bell peppers, sliced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.

2- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4- Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.

5- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, white wine, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6- Return the browned chicken pieces to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

7- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs from the skillet. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

8- Serve the Poulet Basquaise hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Bon appétit!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients used in the Poulet Basquaise recipe:

Chicken (1 whole chicken, about 3.5 lbs):

• Calories: 1750
• Protein: 231g
• Fat: 79g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

Olive oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, supports heart health and may reduce inflammation.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, supports immune function and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 0.5g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Rich in sulfur compounds with potential health benefits including immune system support and heart health.

Red bell peppers (2):

• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:High in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, supports immune function and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Green bell peppers (2):

• Calories: 50
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, supports eye health and immune function.

Tomatoes (4 medium):

• Calories: 100
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, vitamins C and K, and potassium, supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Chicken broth (1 cup):

• Calories: 15
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits:Provides hydration and contains essential nutrients like protein and minerals, supports joint health and may aid digestion.

Dry white wine (1/2 cup):

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Contains antioxidants like resveratrol, may have cardiovascular benefits in moderation.

Fresh thyme (2 sprigs):

• Calories: 5
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, may support respiratory health and boost immunity.

Bay leaves (2):

• Calories: 5
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Contains vitamins A and C, as well as essential oils with potential digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Salt and pepper:

• Negligible calories

benefits:Enhances flavor, but should be consumed in moderation.

Fresh parsley (for garnish):

• Calories: 1
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants, supports bone health and may aid digestion.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and cooking methods.