Chicken with wine

Chicken with Wine: A Classic Recipe that Delights

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Who can resist a dish of tender chicken, soaked in rich flavors of wine and vegetables? This chicken with wine recipe is not just a culinary masterpiece but also a gentle journey into the past, when food was prepared with patience and passion. With each bite, you'll feel how tradition and innovation intertwine on your plate. Let's discover together, step by step, how to prepare this delicious dish!

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into pieces
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 glasses of red wine (choose a quality wine that you would enjoy drinking)
- 1 cup of chicken broth (or water if you don't have broth on hand)
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Wash the chicken and cut it into pieces if not already done. Chop the vegetables: onion, carrot, and celery. These will add not only flavor but also a pleasant texture to the sauce.

2. Browning the chicken: In a deep skillet or pot, add the olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides until golden. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat. Also, add the bay leaves to infuse flavors into the chicken.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the chicken is browned, add the onion, carrot, and celery. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the vegetables become soft and slightly caramelized. This will intensify the flavors and give a special taste to the sauce.

4. Deglazing with wine: At this point, it's time to add the red wine. Carefully pour it over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring all pieces are covered. Continue to cook until the wine partially evaporates, leaving behind its rich flavors. This step is crucial, as the alcohol evaporates, leaving a complexity of flavors.

5. Adding the broth: After the wine has evaporated, add the chicken broth. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the dish simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to blend and the meat to become tender.

6. Preparing the sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pieces of meat onto a plate. Use a blender to turn the vegetables and remaining sauce into a smooth paste. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a few tablespoons of water or broth to the blender.

7. Finalizing the dish: Once the sauce is ready, season it with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for an extra boost of flavor.

8. Serving: Arrange the pieces of chicken on a plate, pour the sauce over it, and garnish with bay leaves for an elegant touch. You can serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Practical tips:
- Choose a quality red wine that you would like to drink. The taste of the wine will significantly influence the sauce.
- You can experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to customize the recipe.
- If you want a spicier sauce, you can add a pinch of chili powder or a few black peppercorns.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. The chicken provides essential proteins, while the vegetables bring fiber and vitamins. Red wine, consumed in moderation, contains antioxidants that may contribute to cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
It is recommended to use fresh chicken for better taste, but if you have frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.

2. How can I store leftovers of chicken with wine?
Chicken with wine stores excellently in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. You can reheat the sauce on the stove or in the microwave.

3. What type of red wine is best?
A dry red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, will add a rich flavor to the dish.

Delicious pairings:
This chicken with wine pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine, but also with a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. Don't forget to accompany the meal with a crispy baguette to savor every drop of sauce!

In conclusion, the chicken with wine recipe is an excellent choice for a comforting dinner. With each step, you'll discover the joy of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe and give it your personal touch, adapting it to your taste. Enjoy your meal!