Drunken chicken with accordion potatoes

Drunken Chicken with Accordion Potatoes - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a recipe that combines rich flavors and perfect texture? Today, I invite you into my kitchen to discover a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a festive air to any meal: drunken chicken with accordion potatoes. This recipe brings together juicy chicken thighs, infused with the flavors of wine, alongside crispy and delicious accordion-style potatoes.

Before we begin, let's dive a little into the history of this recipe. The term "drunken chicken" comes from the practice of using wine to enhance the flavor of the chicken, resulting in a tender and aromatic roast. This combination became popular due to its simplicity, as well as the exquisite taste it provides.

Ingredients for chicken:
- 2 chicken thighs (preferably upper thighs, with skin)
- 50 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 200 ml white wine (for a milder taste, choose a dry wine)
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
- chicken spices (e.g., sweet paprika, rosemary, or thyme)

Ingredients for accordion potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes (preferably non-crumbling varieties, such as new potatoes)
- 50 ml olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- herbs (optional: thyme, rosemary)
- grated cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Preparing the chicken:

1. Preparing the thighs: Rinse the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Dry them with a paper towel and remove any excess fat, if necessary. This step will help achieve a healthier and less greasy roast.

2. Seasoning: In a bowl, add salt, pepper, and desired spices for the chicken. Rub the thighs well with the spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

3. Frying the thighs: In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin side down. Let them brown for about 5-7 minutes, then flip them and fry the other side for the same amount of time. You'll notice a golden and appetizing crust forming.

4. Adding the wine: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the white wine over the chicken thighs. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken simmer in the wine for 20-25 minutes, until the liquid reduces and the meat becomes tender. Check occasionally, stirring gently to prevent sticking.

Preparing the accordion potatoes:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Wash the potatoes well under running water and trim the ends. Using a very sharp knife, make horizontal cuts, leaving about 1 cm space between each cut, without cutting all the way through the potato. This will allow the potato to beautifully open up during baking.

2. Seasoning: Place the potatoes in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add salt, pepper, and desired herbs, mixing well to ensure an even coating.

3. Cooking the potatoes: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden and crispy on the outside, while the inside is soft. If desired, during the last 5 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle grated cheese on top of the potatoes for an even more delicious taste.

Serving:

To serve this dish, arrange the chicken thighs on a large platter alongside the accordion potatoes, which will now be beautifully opened, ready to be filled with the flavors of oil and spices. You can garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for an extra touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:

- What wine should I use? Choose a dry white wine that is not too sweet. Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay wines are excellent for this dish.

- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breast can dry out more easily. Cook it over lower heat and check the internal temperature to avoid drying out.

- How can I vary the recipe? You can add vegetables, such as carrots or onions, to the skillet after adding the wine, to create a delicious sauce.

Nutritional values (per estimated serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism. Potatoes provide a good dose of fiber and complex carbohydrates, offering energy and satiety.

This dish is perfect for a weekend dinner or a special occasion, bringing joy and flavor in every bite. I invite you to prepare it and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, because, after all, cooking is an art that deserves to be savored!