Morgan Freeman and Chicken Breasts with Tuna

"And finding the hat, I always like to find the hat.  And then props just dress the set.  It's all fabulous".

I always recommend starting with the hat.  It is the one item that can really set the tone, whether you are dressing for a wedding, garden party, a casual encounter or in the actor, Morgan Freeman's case, starting a new movie.  A hat defines a character, that is why you can wear so many different hats.  You can ask yourself, how do I want to be perceived?  To a certain extent all clothing says a lot about you, but everyone notices your hat.

Then the props do dress the set, influenced by the hat.  Lets say a chicken breast represents a hat. There are lots of sauces that can dress a chicken breast and set the tone for a meal.  A cream sauce can be elegant and decadent.  Tomato sauce says Italy.  But this tuna sauce with anchovies and capers says all things Mediterranean.


Chicken Breasts with Tuna Sauce


Makes 2 main portions or 4 appetizers


2 organic, boneless, skinless chicken breasts
about 4 cups water, please use filtered or spring water
1 bay leaf
1 sprig tarragon
1/2 lemon, sliced
1/4 cup white wine
1/2 tsp. salt
1 small can tuna
6 small anchovy fillets
juice of 1/2 a lemon
2 tbs. olive oil
2 tbs. capers
4 big handfuls arugula, dressed with a squeeze of lemon, a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Maldon sea salt


Put the chicken breasts in a pan just big enough to fit them, barely cover with water.  Add the bay leaf, tarragon, lemon slices, white wine and salt.  Bring to a very low simmer, DO NOT BOIL, the water should be barely moving, you are gently poaching.  This method makes the tenderest breasts.  Poach for 12-15 minutes until the breasts feel firm to the touch.  You can make a little incision to see if they are cooked through.  Remove from the water and set aside.


Put the tuna, anchovies, lemon juice and olive oil in a food processor and process until smooth.  Add a tsp. or two of water if needed to make a thick sauce.


Divide the dressed arugula among 2 or 4 plates, slice the chicken breasts into 3/4" slices and lay over the arugula portions.  Pour a layer of tuna sauce over the breasts, sprinkle on the capers and a little sea salt.


As Morgan Freeman says "It's all fabulous".


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