Are you looking for a delicious and comforting dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This braised chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a healthy and flavorful homemade meal. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a rich and savory sauce, creating a dish that's both satisfying and elegant. It’s one of those best recipes that's surprisingly simple, making it ideal for even beginner cooks. Get ready to add this quick dinner idea to your regular rotation of easy recipes!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This simple step ensures your braised chicken cooks perfectly.
Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe Dutch oven or large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for your delicious dish.
Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This deglazing process is key to unlocking maximum flavor. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
Braising Time: Return the chicken thighs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Finishing Touches: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Skim any excess fat from the sauce. You can thicken the sauce by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes, if desired.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the braised chicken over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf to the braising liquid. Remove before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or zucchini.
- Bone-in or boneless: This recipe works well with both bone-in and boneless chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe for braised chicken is a fantastic example of healthy meals you can easily make at home. It's a perfect choice for a satisfying and delicious dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!