Citrus-Infused Sicilian Chicken

This delicious Sicilian-style chicken dish is a perfect blend of fresh Mediterranean ingredients that celebrate bold flavors and simple cooking techniques. The tender chicken pieces are marinated with a medley of herbs and spices, which infuse each bite with aromatic depth and warmth. Paired with a fresh tomato sauce that's simmered to perfection, the meal is layered with textures and tastes suitable for any occasion. The addition of fresh vegetables such as carrots and onions enriches the dish while providing a subtle sweetness. Slow cooking ensures the chicken remains juicy and absorbs all the savory goodness from the surrounding broth. This is an inviting meal that brings people together with its delightful aromas and comforting taste. Suitable for family dinners or special gatherings, this dish promises to be a heartwarming centerpiece. Its rustic charm offers a glimpse into traditional Sicilian cuisine, blending simplicity with intensity. Serve it alongside fresh crusty bread or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Embrace the spirit of Italy with this flavorful creation that offers a taste of sunshine in every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 kg whole chicken
• 1 kg ripe tomatoes
• 500 g chicken broth
• 2 carrots
• 2 onions

Sauces and Spices:

• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 bunch fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total time: 65 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 8 pieces using a sharp knife or poultry shears. Rinse under cold water, pat dry, and season with salt and pepper all over.

2. Blanch the Tomatoes: Boil water and blanch the tomatoes briefly. Peel the skin, remove the seeds, and coarsely chop the flesh.

3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 200°C (392°F).

4. Slice the Vegetables: Peel the onions and carrots, then chop them into small pieces.

5. Heat the Oil: In a large ovenproof dish, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

6. Brown the Chicken: Add chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

7. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same dish, add onion and carrot. Cook until the onions are translucent.

8. Add Garlic: Add crushed garlic cloves to the vegetable mix.

9. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, and let them simmer with the vegetables for a few minutes.

10. Season and Simmer: Add salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme to the mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.

11. Return the Chicken: Place the browned chicken pieces back into the sauce.

12. Cover and Cook: Cover the dish with a lid, transfer to the oven, and bake for 40-50 minutes at 180°C (356°F).

13. Midway Check: After 20 minutes, check the dish. Remove the lid and add more broth if it looks dry.

14. Prepare Parsley: While the chicken cooks, pick the parsley leaves from the stems and chop them finely.

15. Finish Cooking: Once done, remove the dish from the oven.

16. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the chicken before serving.

17. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.

18. Completing the Dish: Serve hot directly from the dish or arrange the chicken pieces on a serving platter.

19. Pairing Options: Complement with crusty bread or roasted potatoes.

20. Enjoy: Delight in the flavors of Sicily and share this beautiful dish with loved ones.

Tips

• Substitute fresh herbs: If available, use fresh oregano and thyme for more vibrant flavors.
• Tomato alternative: Canned tomatoes can be used if fresh ones are out of season.
• Add lemon zest: A bit of lemon zest can brighten the dish further.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
• Protein: 45g
• Fats: 26g
• Carbs: 12g

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
• Low carb: Skip the carrots to reduce carbohydrate content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light Arugula salad or grilled seasonal vegetables.
• Serve with a side of creamy polenta for a traditional touch.

Best Places

• Trattoria Da Giovanni - Known for its authentic Sicilian cuisine. Location: Via Garibaldi, Palermo, Italy.
• La Tavernetta - Offers a cozy atmosphere with delicious home-cooked meals. Location: Corso Umberto, Taormina, Italy.
• Osteria delle Tre Panche - Famous for their truffle dishes. Location: Via Antonio Magliabechi, Florence, Italy.
• Ristorante Nino - Elegant dining experience with traditional dishes. Location: Via Borgognona, Rome, Italy.
• Antica Focacceria San Francesco - Established in 1834, renowned for authentic flavors. Location: Via Alessandro Paternostro, Palermo, Italy.
• Mamma Agata's Hidden Treasure - Cooking classes and meals with a view. Location: Piazza Montuori, Ravello, Italy.
• Locanda del Marinaio - Offers a modern twist on classic dishes. Location: Via Cesare Battisti, Cefalù, Italy.
• Pizzeria Bianco - Known for best pizzas inspired by Sicilian flavors. Location: E Adams St, Phoenix, USA.
• L'As du Fallafel - A popular spot for Mediterranean flavors. Location: Rue des Rosiers, Paris, France.
• Da Michele - Legendary for its simple yet perfected recipes. Location: Via Cesare Sersale, Naples, Italy.