Indulge in the rich, velvety decadence of French-style pâté with this surprisingly simple recipe that uses your microwave for quick and easy preparation. Perfectly combining the earthy sweetness of chicken livers with aromatic shallots, garlic, and a splash of cognac, this luxurious spread is blended to silky perfection with butter and cream. Enhanced with fragrant thyme, allspice, and a touch of bay leaf, this no-fuss pâté requires just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it an ideal appetizer for entertaining or a satisfying snack. Serve it chilled with crusty baguette slices or crisp crackers for a truly French-inspired gourmet experience. Perfect for busy cooks seeking elegance without the effort, this recipe is your shortcut to pâté perfection.
1. Clean the chicken livers by removing any visible connective tissue or fat. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chicken livers, finely chopped shallots, minced garlic, thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and allspice.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of butter, cut into small cubes, and cognac or brandy to the bowl.
4. Cover the bowl with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a plate. Microwave the mixture on high for 5 minutes.
5. Stir the mixture and ensure the chicken livers are evenly combined. Microwave for an additional 5 minutes, checking to ensure the livers are fully cooked but still slightly pink inside.
6. Remove the bay leaf and transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the remaining butter and heavy cream.
7. Blend the mixture until completely smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Transfer the pâté to a serving ramekin or bowl, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow it to firm up.
9. Serve the pâté chilled with slices of baguette or crackers. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Calories |
2288 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 198.8 g | 255% | |
| Saturated Fat | 93.7 g | 469% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 17.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1732 mg | 577% | |
| Sodium | 7376 mg | 321% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 48.4 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.6 g | ||
| Protein | 64.5 g | 129% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.5 mcg | 22% | |
| Calcium | 155 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 25.5 mg | 142% | |
| Potassium | 969 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.