Braised Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe You’ll Love
Braised chicken is a heartwarming dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every bite. Imagine tender, juicy chicken simmered to perfection in a rich, aromatic broth, infused with garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of zesty lemon juice. As it cooks, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a savory sauce that’s simply irresistible. Serve it over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, and you have a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Get ready to fall in love with this delightful comfort food classic!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up any day of the week.
- Rich, savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Versatile enough to pair with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
braised chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect chicken pieces, olive oil, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and your favorite herbs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. This adds flavor!
- Place the seared chicken back into the pot. Make sure it’s nestled among the veggies.
- Add your favorite herbs, like thyme or rosemary. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, check if the chicken is cooked through and tender. It should fall off the bone easily!
- Serve your braised chicken with the delicious veggies and broth. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Comfort Food |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 1 hour |
| Total Time: | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 people |
| Best Served: | With rice or mashed potatoes |
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs – Ideal for braising due to their rich flavor and tenderness.
- Olive oil – For searing the chicken and adding healthy fats.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic qualities.
- Carrots – Provides natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- Celery – Adds crunch and a savory base to the braise.
- Chicken broth – The main liquid for braising, infusing flavor into the chicken.
- Tomato paste – Adds richness and a hint of acidity to balance flavors.
- Bay leaves – Infuses a subtle herbal aroma during cooking.
- Thyme – A fragrant herb that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Black pepper – For seasoning and a touch of heat.
- Parsley – Fresh garnish to brighten the dish before serving.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to create a delicious braised chicken that will warm your heart and fill your belly!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect chicken pieces, olive oil, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, and your favorite herbs.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. This adds flavor!
Step 5: Return the Chicken
Place the seared chicken back into the pot. Make sure it’s nestled among the veggies.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Add your favorite herbs, like thyme or rosemary. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 45 minutes.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
After 45 minutes, check if the chicken is cooked through and tender. It should fall off the bone easily!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your braised chicken with the delicious veggies and broth. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor and tenderness.
- Brown the chicken well for a deeper color and taste.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
- Let the dish rest before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve
Here are some delightful serving suggestions for your braised chicken:
- Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Accompany with roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of flavor.
- Offer a side of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of sauce.
- For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Try it in a warm pita with tzatziki sauce for a fun twist.
- Make it a hearty sandwich with your favorite toppings and a drizzle of honey mustard.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store your braised chicken leftovers properly:
- Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
To freeze your braised chicken while maintaining quality:
- Cool the chicken completely before freezing.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
For the best texture and taste when reheating:
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs
What can I use instead of wine in braised chicken?
You can use chicken broth or apple cider vinegar as a substitute for wine. Both options add depth of flavor without the alcohol. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to balance the acidity!
How long should I braise chicken for optimal tenderness?
Braising chicken typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and flavorful, so be patient and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen!
Can I use frozen chicken for braising?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can braise frozen chicken. Just increase the cooking time and ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What vegetables pair well with braised chicken?
Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips are fantastic choices. They absorb the flavors of the braising liquid and add a hearty touch to your dish!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—braised chicken, the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Picture yourself savoring each tender bite, surrounded by loved ones, sharing stories and laughter. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the simple joy of cooking. You’re going to love it!
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