Chicken with caramelized onions

Chicken with caramelized onions and basmati rice

Today, I invite you to discover a delicious and aromatic recipe for chicken with caramelized onions, a dish that perfectly combines the sweetness of onions with the spicy notes of spices. This dish is inspired by traditional recipes and is an excellent choice for a special dinner or to delight your family on ordinary days. Served alongside basmati rice, this chicken will surely become a favorite at your table!

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

Ingredients
- 800 g chicken meat (thighs or breast, depending on preference)
- 1 large white onion and 1 small red onion (optional)
- 50 ml olive oil or corn oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick or ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 50 g sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 50 ml red wine vinegar
- 300 ml water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Basmati rice (300 g, depending on the desired number of servings)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the chicken
Start by marinating the chicken meat. Cut the chicken into equal-sized pieces (about 4-5 cm) to ensure it cooks evenly. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and ground spices (cumin, coriander, chili flakes) and let it sit in the fridge for 2-3 hours. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, providing a unique culinary experience.

Step 2: Cooking the chicken
In a deep frying pan, heat half of the olive oil. When the oil starts to sizzle, add the chicken pieces and let them brown for 5-7 minutes until golden on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Caramelizing the onions
In the same pan, add the remaining oil and the sliced onion. Sauté the onion for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the sugar and continue cooking on low heat, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes until the onion takes on a brown and caramelized color. This step is crucial for achieving a natural sweetness that will perfectly complement the chicken.

Step 4: Flavoring
When the onion is caramelized, add the red wine vinegar and stir well, allowing it to evaporate by half. This step will add a pleasant acidity to the dish. Add the cinnamon stick and star anise if using. These spices will provide depth to the flavors. Let them infuse for a minute.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Put the chicken back in the pan, add the sun-dried tomatoes (if using), and the water. Cover the pan and let everything simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This step will allow the meat to absorb the flavors of the caramelized onion.

Step 6: Preparing the basmati rice
While the chicken is simmering, prepare the basmati rice. It is recommended to soak it in hot water for 15 minutes before cooking to achieve a light and fluffy texture. Rinse the rice under cold running water, then in a separate pan, sauté a small onion in 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the rice and fry it for a few minutes, stirring constantly. For every cup of rice (300 ml), add 2 cups of clear broth or water, seasoning to taste with salt and pepper. Let it boil until all the water is absorbed.

Step 7: Serving
When the chicken is ready, serve it alongside the basmati rice enriched with caramelized onions. If desired, you can sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top, which will add a crunchy texture and a unique flavor. This combination of flavors will surely delight your taste buds!

Practical tips
- Meat: You can also use turkey or even lamb for a different variation.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices like turmeric or cardamom to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Rice: Basmati rice can be replaced with wild rice or brown rice, depending on nutritional preferences.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
- Of course! This recipe also works well with pork or beef. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.

2. What can I do if I don't have sun-dried tomatoes?
- Fresh tomatoes can be used just as well. I recommend adding them at the beginning of cooking so they integrate well into the sauce.

3. How can I store leftovers?
- The chicken and rice can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat everything in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

Nutritional benefits
Chicken meat is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for tissue development and repair. Caramelized onions not only bring a unique flavor but also antioxidants, while basmati rice is a source of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy.

This recipe for chicken with caramelized onions will surely bring a touch of magic to your kitchen. By preparing it, you will not only enjoy a delicious dish but also offer your loved ones a memorable meal full of flavors and colors. Enjoy your meal!