Rustic Garlic Chicken is a dish that brings together the simplicity and heartiness of home cooking, with a burst of garlic flavor that's sure to satisfy. The chicken cooks up juicy and tender, while the rich sauce, loaded with aromatic garlic and a kick of dry white wine, elevates it to the next level.
This recipe uses everyday ingredients you may already have in your kitchen. However, you might need to stock up on fresh garlic. Don't be tempted to substitute it with garlic powder, as fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor. The recipe also calls for a dry white wine. Choose a good-quality one because it will significantly impact the sauce's flavor.
Ingredients for Rustic Garlic Chicken
Cooking oil: Used to brown the chicken and sauté the garlic.
Chicken: Acting as the main protein, it is cooked until tender.
Salt: It's used to season the chicken and sauce.
Black pepper: To add a little heat to the dish.
Garlic: It is the star ingredient that gives this chicken its distinct flavor.
Flour: It's used to thicken the sauce.
Dry white wine: It adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
Chicken broth: It forms the base of the sauce.
Butter: It adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
Fresh parsley: It adds a fresh and vibrant finishing touch.
One reader, Artur Hofmann says:
This rustic garlic chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the garlic-infused sauce is simply divine. It's a perfect dish for a cozy night in, and the aroma while cooking is absolutely mouthwatering. I highly recommend trying it with some creamy mashed potatoes or buttery rice. Delicious!
Techniques Required for Rustic Garlic Chicken
How to brown the chicken: In a Dutch oven, heat the oil over moderately high heat. Sprinkle the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and the pepper. Cook the chicken until well browned, turning, about 8 minutes in all, and remove from the pot.
How to make the garlic sauce: After removing the chicken, reduce the heat to moderate, add the garlic, and sauté until it is starting to brown, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and stir until combined. Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the pot from the oven and put it on a burner.
How to make the wine sauce: After removing the chicken pieces from the pot, over moderately high heat, whisk in the wine and simmer for 1 minute. Whisk in the broth and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer until starting to thicken, about 3 minutes. Turn the heat off, whisk in the butter, and pour the sauce over the chicken.
How to serve: Sprinkle with the parsley. Take advantage of the luscious, garlicky sauce with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
How to pair with wine: This dish pairs well with a rustic red wine from the south of France. Look for lesser-known, good-value bottles from Corbières or Minervois, or a more serious, tannic wine from Cahors.
How To Make Rustic Garlic Chicken
The meat is browned and baked, then served with wine sauce for this rustic garlic chicken that makes an incredible and filling dinner.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspcooking oil
- 3½lbschicken
- 1tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh-ground black pepper
- 3headsgarlic
- 2tbspflour
- 1cupdry white wine
- 1cupcanned low-sodium chicken broth,or homemade stock
- 2tbspbutter
- 2tbspfresh parsley,chopped
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 400 degrees F.
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In a Dutch oven, heat the oil over moderately high heat. Sprinkle the chicken with ½ teaspoon of salt and pepper.
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Cook the chicken until well browned, turning, about 8 minutes in all, and remove from the pot
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Reduce the heat to moderate, add the garlic, and sauté for about 3 minutes until it is starting to brown.
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Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and stir until combined.
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Return the chicken to the pot, cover, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the pot from the oven and put it on a burner.
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Remove the chicken pieces from the pot.
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Over moderately high heat, whisk in the wine and simmer for 1 minute.
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Whisk in the broth and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer for about 3 minutes until starting to thicken.
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Turn the heat off, whisk in the butter, and pour the sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with the parsley.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1217.06kcal
- Fat: 81.68g
- Saturated Fat: 23.86g
- Trans Fat: 0.70g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 34.40g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 17.03g
- Carbohydrates: 17.87g
- Fiber: 1.00g
- Sugar: 1.05g
- Protein: 88.53g
- Cholesterol: 355.46mg
- Sodium: 928.16mg
- Calcium: 131.54mg
- Potassium: 1119.95mg
- Iron: 5.19mg
- Vitamin A: 242.58µg
- Vitamin C: 21.48mg
Technique Tip for Rustic Garlic Chicken
When preparing the garlic, instead of mincing or crushing, try slicing it thinly. This will give a milder, sweeter flavor to the dish and will also allow the garlic to caramelize better when sautéed, enhancing the overall taste of the rustic garlic chicken.
Time-Saving Tips for Rustic Garlic Chicken
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate meats in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal cleanup by utilizing just one pot or pan for cooking.
Batch cooking: Make larger quantities of certain components, such as sauces or grains, to use in multiple dishes throughout the week.
Efficient tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, slow cookers, and pressure cookers to expedite meal preparation.
Strategic planning: Create a weekly meal plan and grocery list to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand, reducing last-minute trips to the store.
Time-saving techniques: Learn and implement cooking techniques that save time, such as using a mandoline for quick slicing or employing the microwave for certain tasks.
Substitute Ingredients For Rustic Garlic Chicken Recipe
cooking oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich and fruity flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken in this recipe.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex and natural flavor compared to regular table salt.
fresh-ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the dish.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can act as a suitable thickening agent and provide a glossy finish to the sauce.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add depth and savory notes to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
canned low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can provide a lighter and slightly sweeter flavor compared to chicken broth.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, adding a rich and fruity flavor to the dish.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can offer a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor, complementing the dish beautifully.
Presenting Rustic Garlic Chicken
Elevate the plating: As culinary professionals with 3 Michelin stars, presentation is key. Ensure that the chicken is placed strategically on the plate, and use fresh herbs and edible flowers to add color and visual appeal.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of the sauce. Use a squeeze bottle or a small spoon to carefully drizzle the sauce around the chicken, creating an elegant and refined presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crispy element to the dish, such as crispy shallots or toasted breadcrumbs, to provide a contrast in texture and elevate the overall dining experience.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to breathe visually. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the rustic garlic chicken take center stage.
Highlight the garlic: Showcase the star ingredient, garlic, by incorporating roasted garlic cloves as a garnish. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Consider the plate selection: Choose a porcelain plate or a slate platter to complement the rustic nature of the dish while maintaining an upscale and polished presentation.
Emphasize balance and harmony: Strive for a harmonious balance of colors, shapes, and textures on the plate. The presentation should reflect the careful thought and artistry that goes into creating this rustic garlic chicken dish.
Essential Tools for Making Rustic Garlic Chicken
- Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for braising, stewing, and slow-cooking dishes.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
- Oven: An appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Cooking oil: A liquid fat used for frying, sautéing, and baking.
- Tongs: A versatile tool for gripping and lifting hot food items while cooking.
- Knife: Essential for cutting, slicing, and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring cup: Used for accurately measuring liquid and dry ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Essential for precise measurement of small amounts of ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and a lid, ideal for making sauces and heating liquids.
- Baking dish: A pan used for baking and roasting dishes in the oven.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Oven mitts: Insulated gloves used to protect hands when handling hot cookware and dishes.
Storing and Freezing Rustic Garlic Chicken
Let the rustic garlic chicken cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and potentially spoiling the dish.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20-25 minutes). Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.
For longer storage, you can freeze the rustic garlic chicken. Transfer the cooled chicken and sauce to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container with the date and contents, as the dish will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator. Then, follow the reheating instructions above.
If you plan to freeze the dish, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts, as they tend to retain their moisture better during the freezing and reheating process.
When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin out the sauce, as it may thicken during storage.
How To Reheat Leftover Rustic Garlic Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover rustic garlic chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the leftover chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it on high for 1-2 minutes or until it's heated through. The damp paper towel helps to create steam, which keeps the chicken moist.
If you want to add a crispy texture to your reheated chicken, heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil or butter. Add the leftover chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until it's crispy and heated through. This method works best if you have a few pieces of chicken rather than a whole dish.
For a flavorful twist, slice the leftover chicken and add it to a stir-fry or pasta dish. The chicken will absorb the flavors of the dish and taste like a whole new meal.
If you have leftover garlic sauce, reheat it separately in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once it's heated through, pour it over the reheated chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Random Fact About Rustic Garlic Chicken
The recipe's wine recommendation suggests pairing the dish with a rustic red wine from the south of France, such as lesser-known, good-value bottles from corbières or minervois, or a more serious, tannic wine from cahors.
Is Rustic Garlic Chicken Economical for Home Cooking?
This rustic garlic chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chicken, garlic, and white wine, are relatively affordable and can be found in most households. The dish is hearty and flavorful, making it a satisfying meal for a family of four. The approximate cost for the entire meal would be around $20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9.
Is Rustic Garlic Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?
The rustic garlic chicken recipe, while flavorful, has some aspects that could be improved from a health perspective. The use of cooking oil and butter adds saturated fat to the dish, which should be consumed in moderation. Additionally, the recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed in excess.
On the positive side, the recipe incorporates garlic, which has been shown to have various health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. The use of white wine and chicken broth also adds depth of flavor without relying heavily on unhealthy ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of cooking oil and butter used, or opt for healthier alternatives like olive oil or avocado oil
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to decrease the overall salt content of the dish
- Increase the amount of garlic used to maximize its potential health benefits
- Serve the chicken with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal
- Choose whole grain options for the suggested side dishes, such as brown rice or whole wheat egg noodles, to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the rustic garlic chicken while also promoting a healthier lifestyle. Remember, moderation is key, and this dish can be part of a balanced diet when consumed alongside a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
Editor's Thoughts on Rustic Garlic Chicken
This rustic garlic chicken recipe is a delightful combination of flavors. The use of whole garlic heads adds a rich, aromatic essence to the dish, while the white wine and chicken broth create a luscious sauce. The cooking method ensures the chicken is tender and succulent, and the addition of fresh parsley provides a burst of freshness. The suggested wine pairings from the south of France complement the dish perfectly. This recipe offers a wonderful opportunity to savor the rustic charm of French cuisine.
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Why trust this Rustic Garlic Chicken Recipe:
This rustic garlic chicken recipe is a classic dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile, while the addition of dry white wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce. The use of fresh parsley enhances the dish with a burst of freshness. Trust in the simplicity and time-honored techniques used in this recipe to deliver a satisfying and delicious meal.
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