How to Make Chicken Rillette: The Ultimate Recipe

01 Feb How to Make Chicken Rillette: The Ultimate Recipe

How to Make Chicken Rillette: The Ultimate Recipe

If you’ve ever visited our Tasting Plates and tasted our Chicken Rillette, you’ve probably found yourself wondering how to make this rich, savoury spread at home. Well, good news — we’re sharing the recipe with you! This Chicken Rillette is one of our most requested dishes, and for good reason. It’s packed with flavour, easy to make, and perfect for serving at gatherings, on crackers, or as a delicious spread for sandwiches. Let’s dive into how to make this simple yet impressive recipe!

What Is Chicken Rillette?

Chicken Rillette is a French dish traditionally made from shredded chicken cooked in its own fat or butter, creating a spreadable texture. This dish is often served on bread or crackers as a starter or part of a charcuterie board. It’s known for its creamy, rich flavour and makes for a perfect appetizer or snack.

Our Chicken Rillette recipe combines tender chicken, fresh herbs, butter, and white wine to create a spread that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Rillette

Here’s everything you’ll need to make your own Chicken Rillette at home:

• 1 medium whole chicken (2kg / size 20) – The star of the dish.
• 1 bunch flat-leaf/continental parsley – Fresh parsley adds a bright pop of colour and flavour.
• 1 cup dry white wine – Choose a good dry white wine to bring depth to the dish.
• 1 carrot – Adds sweetness to balance the richness.
• 1 stick celery – Adds a savoury note and depth.
• 1 brown onion – For a mild sweetness and aromatics.
• 10 sprigs thyme – Classic herb for added fragrance and flavour.
• 1 shallot – For a delicate onion flavour that won’t overpower.
• 1 chicken stock cube – Enhances the savoury depth of the rillette.
• 4 cloves garlic – To infuse a subtle, aromatic heat.
• 250g butter – This is what makes the rillette creamy and spreadable.
• 1 cup water – To cook the chicken and vegetables.
• Dash of oil – For browning the chicken.

How to Make Chicken Rillette: Step-by-Step

Making Chicken Rillette is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create this delicious French spread:

1. Preheat the Oven & Brown the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
• Wash and pat dry your whole chicken, then heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Brown the chicken on all sides to get a nice colour, which will add extra flavour.

2. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs

• While the chicken is browning, dice the carrot, celery, onion, and garlic. Place them into a medium-sized oven dish.
• Add the thyme sprigs to the dish, along with the chicken stock cube, white wine, and water.

3. Roast the Chicken

• Once the chicken is browned, place it into the dish with the veggies and cover it with baking paper and foil.
• Roast in the oven for 2 hours. After that time, check the chicken by testing the meat on the drumstick. If it falls off the bone, it’s done!

4. Shred the Chicken & Make the Rillette Base

• Remove the chicken from the tray to cool slightly. Strain the stock into a small bowl and set aside.
• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and add the finely sliced shallot. Once the butter is melted, turn off the heat.
• Shred the chicken, discarding the skin and bones (you can save the bones to make homemade chicken stock later).
• Add the shredded chicken to the melted butter and stir with your hands to combine. You can make the texture as fine or as chunky as you prefer.

5. Finish the Rillette

• Add the strained stock to the chicken mixture and stir until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
• Stir through the finely chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning. Taste and add salt or pepper as needed. (We recommend being light on the seasoning since it’s often served with salted crackers.)

How to Serve Chicken Rillette

Chicken Rillette is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:

• On Crackers: The classic way to serve it is on a piece of crusty bread or crackers. The richness of the rillette pairs perfectly with the crispness of crackers.
• As a Sandwich Filling: Spread it on a baguette or sandwich roll for a delicious, hearty sandwich.
• With Fresh Veggies: Pair it with sliced cucumber, carrots, or celery for a lighter option.
• As Part of a Charcuterie Board: Add it to your next charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and cured meats.
• Pairs with Pinnacle Series Chardonnay: buy today and test it out you will not be disappointed.

Storage Tips for Chicken Rillette

This recipe makes a great batch of chicken rillette, and you’ll want to enjoy it fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store it:

• In the Fridge: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• In the Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 6 months. Just make sure to transfer it to a freezer-safe container before freezing.

Why You Should Try This Chicken Rillette Recipe

This Chicken Rillette is the perfect dish for anyone who loves rich, flavourful spreads. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a tasty snack, it’s guaranteed to impress. It’s also an excellent way to use a whole chicken to create something special and indulgent.

Conclusion: Making Chicken Rillette at Home

Making Chicken Rillette at home is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few ingredients and some time in the oven, you can create a dish that’s perfect for snacking, serving on special occasions, or sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re new to French cuisine or a seasoned foodie, this recipe will become a favourite in your kitchen.

Ready to give it a go? Let us know how your Chicken Rillette turns out, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media!