Braised Chicken With Raspberry Vinegar: A Delightful Family Meal
The art of creating a comforting yet elegant meal is exemplified in this recipe for Braised Chicken With Raspberry Vinegar, a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. As you embark on this culinary adventure, you will discover how simple ingredients can transform into a delicious main course that will impress your family and guests alike. This recipe, originally from the esteemed culinary brand Williams Sonoma, shines a spotlight on the delightful interplay between tender chicken and the bright, tangy notes of raspberry vinegar. It pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire.
Recipe Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Time | 1 hour 40 minutes |
| Prep Time | 25 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Chicken Breast |
| Servings | 4 |
| Keywords | Chicken Thigh & Leg, Poultry, Oven, Meat, < 4 Hours |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 642.5 |
| Total Fat | 48.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 196.4 mg |
| Sodium | 211.2 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fiber | 0.4 g |
| Sugar | 1.2 g |
| Protein | 45.3 g |
Ingredients
To recreate this tantalizing dish, gather the following ingredients, each contributing to the final masterpiece of flavor and texture:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 1/2 lbs | Chicken (thighs and legs) |
| 2 tbsp | Butter |
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil |
| 1 | Onion (finely chopped) |
| 1 | Garlic clove (minced) |
| 1 | Bay leaf |
| 1/4 cup | Raspberry vinegar |
| 2 cups | Water |
| NA | Salt (to taste) |
| NA | Pepper (to taste) |
| NA | Fresh parsley (for garnish) |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin this culinary journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This initial step ensures that your dish will cook evenly, creating a beautiful golden exterior on the chicken.
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Brown the Chicken: In a large sauté pan or skillet, combine the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and begins to foam, add the chicken pieces in batches, browning them on all sides. This step not only adds flavor but also creates a lovely color that will enhance the presentation of your dish. Aim for a golden brown crust on each piece, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes per batch. Once browned, carefully transfer the chicken to an ovenproof baking dish.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan that you used to brown the chicken, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bay leaf. Sauté gently for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion becomes translucent. This aromatic base is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation for the braising liquid.
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Deglaze the Pan: To the sautéed onions and garlic, add the raspberry vinegar and water. Stir vigorously, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits that may have stuck to the surface during the browning process. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce that bathes your chicken.
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Combine and Season: Pour the deglazed sauce over the browned chicken, ensuring that the onions are evenly distributed around the pieces of meat. Nestle the bay leaf among the chicken to infuse its earthy flavor throughout the dish. Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your personal preference.
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Braise in the Oven: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in moisture, and place it in the preheated oven. Allow the chicken to bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. During this time, the chicken will become incredibly tender as it soaks up the tangy raspberry sauce, and the flavors will meld beautifully. Halfway through the cooking process, turn the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and browning.
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Prepare for Serving: Once the cooking time has elapsed, check the chicken for tenderness. It should be easily pierced with a fork. Carefully transfer the chicken pieces to a serving dish, allowing any excess sauce to drip off.
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Finish the Sauce: To enhance the richness of the sauce, remove excess fat from the pan juices. A simple method is to place a paper towel or a lettuce leaf on the surface of the fat to absorb it. Pour the flavorful liquid over the chicken, allowing the aromatic sauce to complement the dish.
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Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle the braised chicken with freshly chopped parsley, adding a burst of color and freshness that will entice your guests. This dish is ideal when served over fluffy rice or al dente noodles, both of which will soak up the delightful sauce, making each bite satisfying and rich in flavor.
Cooking Notes
- For a deeper flavor profile, consider marinating the chicken in the raspberry vinegar for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This step will enhance the sweetness and tanginess of the final dish.
- Feel free to experiment with additional herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, which can add another layer of depth to the sauce.
- Leftovers, if you have any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
This Braised Chicken With Raspberry Vinegar not only brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table but also invites you to enjoy the comforting process of cooking. With its vibrant taste and beautiful presentation, it is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, perfect for any occasion, whether it be a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering with friends. Enjoy every bite!
