-
1
1. Liberally season chicken on all sides with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, combine oil and butter over high heat. When hot, add several pieces of chicken, skin side down (do not crowd the pan) and cook until an even golden color, about 5 minutes. Turn the pieces and brown on the other side 5 minutes or more. Carefully regulate the heat to avoid scorching the skin.
-
2
When all the chicken is browned, transfer to a platter.
-
3
2. Pour off and discard all but 2 tablespoons of fat from skillet. Add the onions, shallots, garlic and bouquet garni and season lightly with salt. Sweat by cooking over low heat without coloring for about 5 minutes. Add the chicken pieces, pour about 3 tablespoons of sherry vinegar over chicken and cover. Cook very gently over low heat stirring to make sure the vegetables don't burn until chicken is cooked through, about 25 minutes. Remove and discard the bouquet garni.
-
4
Transfer the chicken to a platter and cover with foil, keep warm in low oven.
-
5
3. There should be a thin film of sauce remaining in the skillet. Leave the vegetables in the pan. Over moderate heat slowly add the remaining 3 tablespoons of vinegar, scraping up any bits that stick to the bottom of the skillet. Add the chicken stock, tomato paste, mustard, and half the tarragon. Stir to blend. Increase heat to high and bring to boil, cook until sauce is thick and glossy, about 7 minutes. Off the heat stir in the cream and stir to blend. Return to low heat just to warm through. The resulting sauce should be thick, creamy, and fragrant. Taste for seasoning.
-
6
6. To serve transfer the chicken to a warm serving plate. Spoon sauce and vegetables over and alongside the chicken and sprinkle with the remaining tarragon. Serve with rice or fresh fettucine.
