To get started, gather the following ingredients:
– Chicken pieces (such as bone-in thighs or drumsticks)
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
– Garlic cloves, minced
– Onion, chopped
– Thyme leaves
– White wine
– Chicken stock
– Butter
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
First, prepare the chicken by rinsing it with cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pan, skin-side down. Allow them to cook until browned, usually for about 4-6 minutes. Flip the chicken and brown the other side for another 4-6 minutes. By searing the chicken, you lock in the flavors and ensure a crisp and golden skin.
Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the same pan. Cook them until they become fragrant and slightly softened, around 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Now, it’s time to deglaze the pan with white wine. Pour around half a cup of white wine into the pan and scrape the bottom gently with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. These bits are packed with flavor and will enhance the taste of the sauce.
After deglazing, let the wine simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly. This will concentrate the flavors and create a rich sauce. Then, add the chicken stock and thyme leaves to the pan. The thyme adds an earthy note that pairs beautifully with the chicken and white wine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and return the chicken pieces to the pan, making sure they are immersed in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for approximately 25-30 minutes. This slow cooking process will ensure that the chicken becomes tender and absorbs all the flavors from the wine and stock.
Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer the pieces to a serving dish and cover loosely with foil to keep them warm. Increase the heat to medium-high and simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to thicken it slightly. Stir in a tablespoon of butter, which will give the sauce a velvety texture and a hint of richness.
Finally, pour the luscious white wine sauce over the chicken pieces, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of creamy mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delightful and sophisticated chicken dish that showcases the depth of flavors white wine can provide. So, the next time you’re looking to elevate your chicken cooking game, don’t hesitate to reach for that bottle of white wine in your pantry and a delicious meal.