Inspired by classic Steak Diane, we swap the beef for a crispy chicken thigh for a new take on the retro dish. Steak Diane rose to popularity in the mid-20th century when its signature pan sauce was made with a base of Worcestershire, mustard, shallots and cognac. In Manhattan restaurants, the cognac was often flambéed, making it a dramatic dish to cook tableside. Over the years more ingredients were added, including mushrooms, tomato paste and cream. We’ve included all of the above in our chicken version of the dish and the result is luxurious and decadent enough for special occasions yet perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F; line a baking sheet with foil.
Heat the oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken on both sides with a good pinch of salt and several grinds of pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken skin-side down and cook, undisturbed, until the skin is golden brown, crispy and starting to release from the skillet, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet skin-side up (do not discard the drippings in the skillet). Roast the chicken until cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes.
Return the skillet with the drippings to medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the mushrooms, 1/2 teaspoon salt and several grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release all their liquid and turn golden brown in spots, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the shallots and garlic and cook until just tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until a deep brick red and starting to caramelize, about 1 minute.
Turn off the heat, add the cognac and carefully light with a long match or click lighter. Return the skillet to medium heat, swirling it gently until the flames subside. Raise the heat to medium high and continue to cook until almost all of the cognac has evaporated, about 1 minute.
Add the beef broth, cream, mustard and Worcestershire sauce, stir until smooth and bring to a simmer. Simmer until thickened and creamy, 5 to 6 minutes.
Serve the crispy chicken thighs with the sauce drizzled over the top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
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Use extreme caution when igniting alcohol. Remove the pan from the heat source before adding the alcohol. Pour the alcohol into the pan and carefully ignite with a match or click lighter. Return the pan to the heat and gently swirl to reduce the flames.
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