Why 'Chicken Suprême' May Not Be What You Think It Is

The word "supreme" gets thrown around a lot in culinary circles. With a general definition of "the highest in rank or authority," it's far too easy for chefs and restauranteurs to slap the word onto a dish or recipe to denote its superior status. Supreme can also be used to indicate that a portion is significantly sizable, such as Taco Bell's iconic Crunchwrap Supreme.

Because supreme is so ubiquitous, the word can mean different things to different people. Take the French dish chicken suprême, which is often associated with thick sauces that utilize creamy soup bases. While sauce is definitely a component of this tasty and wholesome dish, it doesn't actually personify it. Instead, the meal utilizes specific components to ensure it's as flavorful as possible. And when you're aware of what exactly the dish consists of, you'll be able to replicate it easily in your own kitchen. The first step is to overcome common misinformation regarding the actual definition of "chicken suprême'."

When it comes to chicken suprême, a common misconception about the dish often proves confusing to less seasoned chefs. The name "chicken suprême" doesn't refer to a preparation method per se but instead references the type of cut you should use. In this case, chicken suprême consists of a boneless chicken breast on which the skin is left intact. In some recipes, the chicken breast can also include the upper portion of the wing. Leaving the skin on imbues the chicken breast with tons of flavor while also ensuring it's extremely juicy. The chicken is first pan-seared, then transferred to the oven where it's baked.

You can also whip up a flavorful sauce to accompany chicken suprême. Start by sautéing garlic and shallots in a pan, then add white wine to loosen all the delicious caramelized bits on the bottom. Next, pour in some cream and chicken stock and allow them to simmer. You'll know the sauce is ready when it takes on a nice thick texture. While chicken suprême is known for being juicy and flavorful, pairing it with the perfect side dish is the best way to bring out the inherent flavors.

Chicken suprême makes for a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it also meshes quite well with certain side dishes. If you want to fully honor the French origins of the dish, potatoes Parisienne is an excellent choice. This side dish consists of roasted russet potatoes, which are formed into balls using a melon scooper. Other ingredients include butter, sunflower oil (which allows the potatoes to be roasted at high temperatures to achieve the proper texture), salt, and pepper. Prior to roasting, potato balls should be boiled in salted water for about 5 minutes. Next, add oil and butter to a roasting pan and place it in the oven. Once heated, add potato balls. After about 15 minutes, turn the potatoes over and season according to taste. Roast for another 15 minutes or until crispy brown. 

Basmati rice is another good option with chicken suprême, as it makes a great accompaniment to the flavorful sauce. A type of long-grain rice, basmati rice is known for its subtle yet pleasing flavor profile, which offers nutty notes and floral scents. Basmati rice is available in white and brown varieties, with brown basmati rice featuring more intense flavors. No matter what side dish you ultimately choose, you and your family are bound to enjoy this classic take on French cuisine.