Pomegranate-Marinated Chicken
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Description: This delectable Pomegranate-Marinated Chicken recipe is a true gem, one that I have embraced and thoroughly enjoy. The magic of pomegranate molasses infuses the chicken with a unique and delightful flavor, making it stand out in your culinary repertoire. If you haven’t yet experienced the transformative power of pomegranate molasses, now is the perfect time to dive in—it truly makes for a distinctive and memorable chicken dish. Additionally, the accompanying pomegranate dressing is a splendid addition to a fresh bowl of salad greens, enhancing the overall meal experience. 🌟🍗
Category: Chicken Breast
Keywords: Chicken, Poultry, Meat, < 4 Hours
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 4 skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/3 cup pomegranate molasses
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of pomegranate molasses, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon zest, 1/8 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper. This aromatic marinade will impart a rich, tangy flavor to the chicken.
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Prepare the Chicken: Remove the skin and trim the bones from each chicken breast half. This ensures the marinade penetrates the meat fully, and the chicken cooks evenly.
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Marinate the Chicken: Place the prepared chicken breasts in a glass baking dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, turning the chicken once to allow the flavors to meld.
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Prepare the Pomegranate Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper, lemon juice, honey, and 1/3 cup pomegranate molasses. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended. Gradually whisk in 2 tablespoons of olive oil to emulsify the dressing. Stir in the chopped mint. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. This dressing can be made ahead of time to let the flavors develop further.
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Cook the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat a 10-to-12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the hot pan, skin-side down. Sear the chicken until it is nicely browned, which will take about 4-5 minutes.
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Roast the Chicken: Transfer the browned chicken to a rack set in a roasting pan. Spoon a little of the reserved marinade over the top of each chicken breast. Roast in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tests done in the thickest part. Be sure to discard any unused marinade.
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Serve: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, transfer it to plates. Drizzle with the prepared pomegranate dressing and serve. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or your favorite side dishes.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 339.3
- Fat Content: 22.9g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.4g
- Cholesterol Content: 68.4mg
- Sodium Content: 369.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 5.6g
- Fiber Content: 0.3g
- Sugar Content: 4.5g
- Protein Content: 27.4g
This recipe yields 4 servings and is ideal for a family dinner or an elegant meal for guests. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the delightful twist that pomegranate molasses brings to this succulent chicken dish! 🍗🍇