Chicken Thighs with Prune and Almond Filling

This flavorful dish features tender chicken thighs filled with a delightful mixture of prunes and almonds, infused with the herby aroma of rosemary. The sweetness of the prunes balances beautifully with the crunch of chopped almonds, creating a filling that is both savory and sweet. This recipe offers a fantastic way to transform ordinary chicken into something truly special, with each bite offering a contrast of textures and rich, comforting flavors. Cooking the filled thighs in a covered pan ensures they remain moist and juicy, while the rosemary adds an aromatic touch. Ideal for family dinners or gourmet-style entertaining, this dish is sure to impress. It pairs exceptionally well with fresh, vibrant salads, adding a light touch to a hearty meal experience. With a relatively short preparation time, it’s an elegant yet simple option for cooks of all levels. Perfectly suited for those looking to explore new flavor combinations in a familiar format.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 100 g dried prunes
• 50 g chopped almonds

Spices:

• 1 sprig of rosemary
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation Time

40 minutes (Total preparation and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by deboning the chicken thighs to create a flat surface, and season them generously with salt and pepper.
2. Next, chop the dried prunes into small pieces and mix them with the chopped almonds in a bowl.
3. Strip the needles from the rosemary sprig, chop them finely, and add them to the prune and almond mixture.
4. Take a seasoned chicken thigh, place a portion of the prune and almond mixture onto one end.
5. Roll the thigh tightly to enclose the filling and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine to ensure it remains intact.
6. Repeat this process with the remaining thighs, ensuring all pieces are evenly filled and secured.
7. Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
8. Once the oil is hot, place the filled thighs seam side down to start browning them.
9. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they achieve a nice golden color.
10. Reduce the heat to low, place a lid on the pan, and let the chicken simmer gently.
11. Allow the chicken to cook slowly in its juices for approximately 20 more minutes, turning occasionally.
12. During the last few minutes of cooking, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (165°F).
13. Once cooked through, remove the thighs from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
14. For easy presentation, slice the chicken rolls into rounds, showcasing the beautiful interior.
15. Pour any pan juices over the sliced chicken for added flavor.
16. Serve immediately alongside a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
17. A mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette would pair beautifully with this dish.
18. Consider garnishing with additional rosemary for an aromatic touch.
19. Alternatively, serve alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty option.
20. Enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors in this delightful dish.

Tips

• Substitutions: You can replace almonds with walnuts or pecans if preferred.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and the chicken rolls a few hours in advance for a quicker meal preparation.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of white wine to the cooking pan halfway through for an extra depth of flavor.

Nutritions

• Calories: 380 per serving
• Protein: 24 g
• Fats: 22 g
• Carbs: 18 g

Variations

• For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken thighs with large portobello mushrooms, reducing the cooking time.
• Swap prunes with dates for a naturally sweeter filling.
• Consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a vibrant salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the fruity notes of the prunes.
• Add fresh bread on the side to soak up any savory juices.

Best Places

• Le Poultry Bistro - A charming eatery offering delicious poultry dishes with a twist of French sophistication.
  Location: 10 Rue de la Mode, Paris, France.
• The Chicken Collective - Renowned for its inventive chicken recipes crafted with local and organic ingredients.
  Location: 352 College St, Toronto, Canada.
• Prune & Thistle - A unique restaurant noted for its creative use of dried fruits in main courses.
  Location: 6781 32nd Ave, New York City, USA.
• Chook Kitchen - Specializes in flavorful chicken meals with a modern Australian flair.
  Location: 58 Flinders Ln, Melbourne, Australia.
• Almond & Fowl - Celebrated for its Asian-inspired chicken dishes featuring nutty, fruity fillings.
  Location: 9 Jongno 5-gil, Seoul, South Korea.
• Olive & Rose - Offers Mediterranean dishes with a focus on fresh herbs and aromatic spices.
  Location: 22 St. John's Rd, Valletta, Malta.
• Casa del Pollo - Known for bold, flavor-packed chicken meals in a cozy setting.
  Location: Plaza Mayor 15, Madrid, Spain.
• Farm & Feather - A farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on sustainable poultry dishes.
  Location: 33 Queen St, London, UK.
• Thyme Table - Features a menu rich in herb-infused chicken recipes.
  Location: 21 Herb Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
• The Rustic Coop - Provides simple yet delicious chicken meals with a countryside charm.
  Location: 100 Farm Road, Wellington, New Zealand.