Somerset chicken is one of our favourite dishes to cook all year round, especially after a hard move that involves navigating many steps. This is normal for many central properties in and around Bath city centre.
Somerset Chicken is a dish with roots in the rural county of Somerset, a region famous for its picturesque countryside, rich dairy heritage, and cider-making traditions. The dish typically features chicken paired with cider and creamy ingredients, reflecting the region’s iconic produce: Somerset cider and cheese, particularly cheddar.
Why Is It So Popular?
In my opinion, Somerset Chicken embodies the rustic, hearty flavours that characterize much of Somerset and British farmhouse cooking. It showcases the local flavours of Somerset cider and cheddar cheese, which are key synonymous with the region’s identity.
Whether served in a pub or at home, it’s a comforting dish that combines the rich, savoury taste of chicken with the tangy sweetness of cider and the creaminess of cheese, making it a perfect example of hearty comfort food.
The dish continues to evolve and remains a favourite for many households across Bath, Somerset, and surrounding areas; it is a cuisine beloved for its warmth and simplicity.
The Origins and History of Somerset Chicken
The exact history of Somerset Chicken is somewhat unclear, but its creation is likely tied to the agricultural and culinary traditions of Somerset. Here are a few key points that shed light on the dish’s possible origins:
Cider Culture in Somerset
Somerset has long been known for its apple orchards and cider production. The region produces some of the best cider in England, which has traditionally been used in cooking to impart a fruity, tangy flavour to dishes.
Somerset Chicken likely originated as a way to incorporate local cider into a comforting, hearty dish. Be careful with the cider you use, as some local scrumptious can overpower this dish.
Local Ingredients:
Somerset’s agricultural landscape is rich with fresh produce, and chicken would have been a natural choice for a hearty, country-style dish. The addition of cream, cheese, and sometimes herbs reflects the abundance of dairy products in the area, making it a very “Somerset” dish.
Cheddar cheese (often a key ingredient in British dishes) is likely to have been a feature in the recipe, given the region’s strong association with this cheese.
Culinary Influence
Somerset Chicken is a good example of the “farmhouse” cooking style, where hearty, filling meals are made from locally sourced ingredients, often in simple but flavorful combinations.
This type of dish reflects the down-to-earth, rustic nature of Somerset cuisine, which focuses on using what is available and making the most of seasonal produce.
A Modern Twist on Tradition
While the dish has ancient roots in Somerset, modern versions of Somerset Chicken have emerged recently, especially in restaurants and pubs.
These modern adaptations may vary. Some use cream, cheddar cheese, and cider in various forms (like cider reductions or sauces), while others might add vegetables or herbs.
Typical Ingredients:
Somerset Chicken is typically made with the following ingredients:
- Chicken breasts or thighs – the main protein of the dish.
- Somerset cider is a key element that provides a fruity and slightly tangy flavour.
- Cream – often heavy or double cream- gives the dish a rich, comforting texture.
- Cheddar cheese – often grated and added for creaminess and depth of flavour.
- Herbs – such as thyme or rosemary, complement the dish’s flavours.
- Garlic and onions are used for added savory depth.
- Vegetables – mushrooms, carrots, or leeks (depending on the variation).
Classic Recipe (Somerset Chicken):
Here’s my simplified version of Somerset Chicken:
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or wild garlic if in season
- 8-10 fresh mushrooms sliced
- 150ml (1/2 cup) dry Somerset cider
- 150ml (1/2 cup) double cream
- 100g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In the same pan, add the sliced onion. After a couple of minutes, add the fresh sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add cider and cream: Pour in the Somerset cider and simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the cream, and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add cheese and herbs: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and fresh thyme, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and simmer: Return the chicken breasts to the pan and spoon some sauce over them. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the sauce’s flavours.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with roasted potatoes and seasonal green vegetables of your choice.
Somerset Hot Pot
An alternative to serving the above is to take the cooked ingredients and place them in a deep oven-proof dish. Layer slightly cooked potatoes evenly on top of the chicken mixture with brushed olive oil and butter, fresh rosemary, and herbs.
Cook in the oven until the top is golden brown, serve with seasonal green vegetables. This is known as a Somerset hot put.
