Sicilian Braised Chicken

Sicilian Braised Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, savory prosciutto, and a medley of Mediterranean flavors will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. The blend of ingredients creates a rich and robust flavor profile that is sure to impress.
2. This dish requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
3. Sicilian Braised Chicken is perfect for meal prep, as the flavors only deepen and improve over time.

Ingredient Notes:

• Olive oil: Provides a rich base for cooking the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
• Prosciutto: Adds a salty and savory element to the dish.
• Chicken quarters: The main protein in this recipe, chicken quarters offer juicy and tender meat.
• Red onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes: Bring a burst of freshness to the dish.
• Calabrian chili: Adds a hint of spice to the sauce.
• White wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.
• Chicken broth + water: Creates a flavorful braising liquid for the chicken.
• White beans: Add texture and protein to the dish.
• Roasted red peppers: Bring a smoky sweetness to the sauce.
• Golden raisins: Offer a touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors.
• Italian green olives: Add a briny and salty kick to the dish.
• Ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and depth to the sauce.
• Rosemary: Infuses the dish with a woodsy aroma.
• Lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors of the dish.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh and herbaceous note.
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Season to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil and cook prosciutto until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. Brown chicken quarters in the same pot, then remove and set aside.
3. Add red onion, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and calabrian chili to the pot. Cook until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pot with white wine, then add chicken broth, water, white beans, roasted red peppers, golden raisins, olives, cinnamon, and rosemary.
5. Return chicken and prosciutto to the pot, cover, and simmer until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in lemon juice and parsley before serving.

Helpful Tips:

• For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce overnight.
• Serve the Sicilian Braised Chicken with crusty bread or over pasta for a hearty meal.
• Substitute chicken thighs for chicken quarters if desired.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
2. Don’t skip the step of browning the chicken and prosciutto for added depth of flavor.
3. Adjust the amount of calabrian chili to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Sicilian Braised Chicken with a side of creamy polenta or a fresh green salad. Pair it with a glass of Sicilian red wine for a complete Mediterranean dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the dish moist.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken quarters? Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. What can I substitute for white wine? You can use chicken broth or white grape juice as a substitute.
3. Are green olives necessary for this recipe? They add a unique flavor, but you can omit them if you’re not a fan.
4. Can I freeze Sicilian Braised Chicken? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion:

Sicilian Braised Chicken is a delightful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out and let us know how it turns out!

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