Pickled cucumber and chicken dish

Welcome back, dear lovers of cuisine! I hope you had wonderful holidays and are ready for a new culinary adventure. Today, I will share with you a delicious and comforting recipe that will remind you of the flavors of childhood: Chicken with pickles. This simple yet flavorful recipe will delight you with its tangy aroma and transform ordinary ingredients into a truly special dish.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

A short story about the recipe

Chicken with pickles has a rich history, being a traditional way to preserve vegetables for winter. In many cultures, pickles have been used not only as a side dish but also as a main ingredient in various preparations. In my childhood, my mother lovingly prepared this dish for me, and its aroma remains etched in my memories. It is a dish that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for a family meal.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious chicken with pickles, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 kg of pickles
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 2 large onions
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (approx. 400 g)
- 50 ml of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- A little ground allspice (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Rustic bread for serving

Preparation of ingredients

1. Pickles: If you have pickles in a barrel, that’s ideal! Before using them, it’s good to soak them in water for 2-3 hours, pricking them here and there with a knife. This step helps reduce the intensity of the sour and salty taste.

2. Chicken: Wash the chicken drumsticks well and generously salt them. They will develop a delicious crust during frying.

3. Vegetables: Peel the onion and garlic. Chop the onion finely, and leave the garlic whole or chop it finely, according to your preference.

Step by step in preparation

1. Frying the chicken: In a frying pan, heat a little oil and add the chicken drumsticks. Fry them on both sides until they turn a beautiful golden color. Do not cook them completely, as they will continue to cook later in the sauce.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 50 ml of oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. This will add extra sweetness to the dish.

3. Adding the pickles: Slice the pickles and add them to the pot. Mix well and cover with a lid, allowing them to cook for 10 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to combine.

4. Preparing the sauce: After 10 minutes, pour 500 ml of boiling water over the pickles. Let it simmer over medium heat until the pickles become almost soft. This will take about 15-20 minutes, depending on how sour or salty the pickles are.

5. Finalizing the dish: Add the diced tomatoes, spices (chili flakes, salt, allspice), and mix gently. Then, add the chicken drumsticks and chopped garlic. Mix again and cover the pot with a lid for another 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked.

Serving and suggestions

When the dish is ready, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a vibrant look and fresh aroma. Serve the dish with rustic bread, which will be perfect for soaking up the tangy and delicious sauce. This is a recipe that pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a fruit compote to balance the flavors.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to create a heartier dish.
- Chicken: If you prefer, you can use chicken breast, but the drumsticks provide a much deeper flavor due to the fat and bones.
- Pickles: If you don’t have pickles, you can use fresh cucumbers and a splash of vinegar to achieve a similar acidity.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the pickles add fiber and probiotics, which aid in healthy digestion. Additionally, the onion and garlic contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh cucumbers?
Yes, but it is recommended to add a splash of vinegar to achieve the desired sour taste.

2. What other spices can I use?
You can experiment with marjoram, thyme, or even sweet paprika to customize the flavor.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It is also delicious when reheated!

Indulge yourself and try this simple and tasty recipe! It will surely become a favorite in your kitchen, bringing beautiful memories and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!