Braised Turkey Thighs with Tarragon

Name: Braised Turkey Thighs with Tarragon
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 115 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large turkey thighs (skin-on, bone-in); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion (sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 240 ml white wine; 500 ml chicken broth; 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon (chopped); 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 2 tablespoons butter

115 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Tender braised turkey thighs infused with the aromatic flavour of tarragon, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Prep

20 min

Cook

90 min

Total

115 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Braised turkey thighs with tarragon is a classic dish that brings out the rich, earthy flavours of turkey combined with the unique, slightly sweet aroma of tarragon. This dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty and comforting meal. The braising process ensures that the turkey thighs are tender and juicy, as they slowly cook in a flavourful broth. The addition of tarragon provides a distinctive anise-like taste that elevates the dish to a gourmet level, making it suitable for both family dinners and special occasions.

Instructions

Prepare the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brown the turkey thighs

In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey thighs, skin side down, and brown for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.

Pro tip: Browning the thighs adds depth to the flavour of the dish.

Cook the aromatics

In the same pot, add sliced onions and garlic. Cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Deglaze the pot

Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce by half.

Pro tip: This step adds a rich flavour to the sauce.

Combine ingredients

Return the turkey thighs to the pot. Add chicken broth, fresh tarragon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Braise the turkey thighs

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 1 to 1.5 hours or until turkey is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Pro tip: Check the temperature at the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.

Finish the sauce

Remove the pot from the oven and transfer turkey thighs to a serving platter. Stir butter into the sauce until melted and smooth.

Pro tip: This adds richness and gloss to the sauce.

Serve

Serve the turkey thighs with the sauce drizzled over them. Garnish with extra tarragon if desired.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh tarragon for the best flavour.
Brown the turkey thighs well for a richer taste.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavours.
Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you cook a turkey thigh?

Turkey thighs can be braised, as in this recipe, to ensure they are tender and juicy.

What temperature should turkey thighs be cooked to?

Cook turkey thighs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How long does it take to braise turkey thighs?

Braising turkey thighs in the oven takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?

Yes, use about 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon if fresh is not available.

What can I serve with braised turkey thighs?

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these braised turkey thighs with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complete your meal. The rich sauce pairs beautifully with these sides, allowing you to enjoy every drop. To make ahead, prepare the dish as instructed and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. The flavours will deepen over time, making it even more delicious.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

30g

Protein

28g

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