Savory Chicken with Creamy Belgian Endive Delight

Chicken with Belgian Endive (Kip met Witloof)

Description

Belgian Endive is known for its slightly bitter flavor, which can be an acquired taste, but it pairs wonderfully with tender chicken in this delectable recipe. While it may be considered pricey in the US, it’s a staple that’s quite affordable in Belgium. This dish, combining the richness of chicken with the unique taste of Belgian Endive, is a comforting and flavorful choice for any meal. It’s simple yet elegant, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Recipe Category

Whole Chicken

Keywords

Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Belgian, European, Very Low Carbs, Less Than 4 Hours

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (cut into serving pieces)
2 Belgian endives (finely chopped, core removed)
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon flour
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 865.2
Fat: 64.7 g
Saturated Fat: 22.3 g
Cholesterol: 279.5 mg
Sodium: 323.7 mg
Carbohydrates: 9 g
Fiber: 7.1 g
Sugar: 0.9 g
Protein: 60.5 g

Servings

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the whole chicken into serving pieces. Season the pieces with salt and pepper, and then dust them lightly with flour to ensure a lovely sear.
Brown the Chicken: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the chicken pieces. Brown the chicken on all sides until it’s golden and crisp, about 5-7 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
Simmer the Chicken: After browning, cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the chicken cook slowly for 45 minutes. This gentle cooking allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender and juicy.
Add the Endive: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Belgian endives. Finely chop them and remove the inner core to reduce the bitterness. After the chicken has cooked for 45 minutes, arrange the chopped endives around the chicken in the pot.
Finish Cooking: Cover the pot again and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes. This will allow the endives to soften and blend their flavor with the chicken.
Check for Doneness: Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring the juices run clear when pierced with a knife. This indicates that the chicken is thoroughly cooked and ready to be served.
Add Cream and Lemon Juice: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and allow it to heat through. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, just enough to blend the cream into the sauce. Add the lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Serve: Transfer the chicken pieces to serving plates, spoon the endives and creamy sauce over the top, and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Enjoy your meal! 🌟🍗🌿