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Chicken Bouillabaisse

This aromatic chicken bouillabaisse is a wonderful twist on the classic French seafood stew, offering a protein-rich alternative that is both satisfying and full of flavour. Infused with saffron, orange peel, and dry white wine, the sauce develops a Mediterranean complexity that perfectly complements the tender, oven-baked chicken. Using skinless drumsticks and thighs keeps the dish lighter while ensuring the meat remains succulent during the roasting process.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this recipe prioritises lean protein and heart-healthy olive oil, making it a nutritious choice for a midweek dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch. Serve this fragrant stew in shallow bowls with the crisp, golden baguette slices to soak up every drop of the tomato-based broth. For an authentic touch, add a spoonful of savoury rouille just before serving.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chicken Bouillabaisse

  • Preheat oven to 191°C. Sprinkle with salt and pepper:

  • 6 chicken legs (split into drumsticks and thighs), skinned

  • Heat in large wide ovenproof pan over medium-high heat:

  • 45ml olive oil

  • Add and sauté until soft and golden, about 8 minutes:

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • Add and bring mixture to boil:

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1/4 teaspoons saffron threads

  • 2 4-inch-long orange peel strips (orange part only)

  • 180ml dry white wine

  • Add and return mixture to boil:

  • 1 14 1/60g can diced tomatoes in juice

  • 1 400g can low-salt chicken broth

How to make Chicken Bouillabaisse

Add chicken pieces to pan in single layer, submerging in sauce; return mixture to boil. Cover pan and place in oven. Bake until chicken is cooked through, about 45 minutes.

Remove chicken from oven; keep covered. Maintain oven temperature.

Toast on a baking sheet until golden, about 12 minutes: 12 1/2-inch-thick baguette slices, brushed with olive oil

Remove from oven. Spoon chicken and sauce into shallow bowls. Top each serving with 2 toasted baguette slices. Garnish with rouille, if desired.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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