Cooking with Herbes de Provence: 3 Easy Recipes

Discover practical examples of cooking with Herbes de Provence for delicious French-inspired dishes.
By Taylor

1. Savory Herbes de Provence Roasted Chicken

This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The herbs infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors while keeping it juicy and tender.

Start with a whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs) and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and rub olive oil all over it. Generously sprinkle Herbes de Provence, along with salt and pepper, both inside and outside the chicken. For added flavor, place lemon wedges and garlic cloves inside the cavity.

Place the chicken in a roasting pan and surround it with chopped vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions for a complete meal. Roast in the oven for about 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted veggies for a delightful, herb-infused meal!

Notes: For a variation, try adding a splash of white wine to the roasting pan for an extra layer of flavor.

2. Herbes de Provence Vegetable Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French dish that showcases seasonal vegetables. Adding Herbes de Provence gives it an authentic touch that enhances the flavors beautifully.

Begin by chopping an eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. Sprinkle in a tablespoon of Herbes de Provence, along with salt and pepper, to taste. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.

Serve your ratatouille warm, either on its own or over a bed of rice or couscous. This dish is not only colorful but also a healthy, hearty option!

Notes: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like squash or green beans. You can also serve it chilled as a refreshing salad.

3. Herbes de Provence Infused Olive Oil

This infused olive oil is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Herbes de Provence in your everyday cooking. It can be used for dipping bread, drizzling over salads, or enhancing pasta dishes.

To make the infused oil, start with a cup of good-quality extra virgin olive oil and add 2 tablespoons of Herbes de Provence directly into it. For an extra kick, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves as well. Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar and seal it tightly. Let it sit in a cool, dark place for at least a week to allow the flavors to meld.

After a week, strain the oil to remove the herbs (if desired) and transfer it back into a bottle. Use it within a month for the best flavor.

Notes: Experiment with different herbs or even add chili flakes for a spicy version. This makes a lovely homemade gift for your friends and family, too!