Chicken with wine

Chicken with wine - A savory recipe for unforgettable evenings

If you are looking for a delicious and comforting recipe that brings a touch of joy and warmth to your weekend meals, you have come to the right place! Chicken with wine, cooked with mushrooms and bacon, is a dish that perfectly combines flavors and textures, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. I will guide you step by step on how to prepare this dish, so you can impress your family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40-50 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 500 g oyster or champignon mushrooms (I used oyster for a richer taste)
- 250 g bacon, diced
- 250 ml red wine (choose a quality wine, as the flavors concentrate during cooking)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika (to taste)
- Oil for frying

A brief history

The dish of chicken with wine has a long tradition in world cuisine, often associated with festive meals. Over time, different cultures have adopted this recipe, adapting it with local ingredients. Chicken cooked with wine is not only a delicious choice but also an effective way to transform simple ingredients into something truly special.

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well. Make sure to drain them thoroughly to remove excess water. In a separate bowl, mix 3-4 tablespoons of flour with salt. Dredge each drumstick in this mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

2. Frying the chicken: In a deep skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chicken drumsticks and fry them until golden and crispy on all sides. This step is essential to seal in the juices and achieve a delicious crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Cooking the mushrooms with bacon: In the same skillet, add the diced bacon and fry until crispy. Then, add the sliced mushrooms. Stir well so that the mushrooms are coated with the flavors of the bacon. Cook until the mushrooms release their water and become soft, covering the skillet to speed up the process.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the mushrooms have improved, reintroduce the chicken drumsticks into the skillet. Sprinkle the spices: salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika, to taste. Add a cup of boiling water and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This step helps to intensify the flavors.

5. Adding the wine: After the simmering time, add the red wine and stir gently. The wine will not only enrich the flavors but will also add a note of acidity that balances the dish's taste. At this point, sprinkle the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

6. Baking: Transfer the mixture to a suitable baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at a medium temperature (180°C) for 25-30 minutes. This step will help the flavors meld and allow the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Serving suggestions

To make this dish even more special, I suggest serving it alongside green olives or a fresh vegetable salad. Additionally, mashed potatoes or vegetable rice will pair perfectly to complete the meal. Don’t forget to add a glass of red wine from the same variety used in the dish to enhance the culinary experience.

Useful tips

- Choosing the wine: Opt for a medium-quality wine that you enjoy drinking. Its taste will directly influence the flavor of the dish.
- Mushrooms: You can experiment with other types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or chanterelles, for a different flavor.
- Variations: Instead of bacon, you can use ham or sausages for another flavor profile.
- Parsley: If you don’t have fresh parsley on hand, you can also use other herbs like dill or coriander.

Nutritional benefits

This chicken with wine dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle health. Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and fiber, while bacon, though delicious, should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and will cook similarly.

2. How can I keep the chicken with wine longer? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. What other side dishes go well with this dish? Besides mashed potatoes or rice, you can opt for steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

In conclusion, chicken with wine is a recipe that combines simplicity with refinement, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your meals. With every bite, you will feel the richness of the flavors and appreciate the complexity of this dish. Prepare it with love and enjoy the moments spent with your loved ones! Bon appétit!