Delicious Red Wine Chicken Recipe for Dinner
Red Wine Chicken Recipe – A French Classic with a Twist
There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty, flavorful French dish that you can enjoy with your loved ones. This Red Wine Chicken recipe is the perfect dish for those who want to elevate their cooking skills and impress their family and friends.
Traditionally made with coq au vin, this braised red wine chicken is a luscious and glossy dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eater. The use of dry red wine in this recipe adds depth and complexity to the sauce, while the other ingredients, such as bacon and garlic, provide an explosion of flavor in every bite.
What makes this recipe unique is the use of boneless, skinless chicken breast halves instead of the typical chicken thighs. It gives this classic dish a modern twist that makes it lighter on the palate but equally satisfying.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Red Wine Chicken recipe is worth trying because it’s simple yet sophisticated. In just a few easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that your loved ones will never forget.
Pair this flavor-packed dish with some roasted vegetables or over some dinner rolls for an amazing dinner experience that you’ll want to relive over and over again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of making the same bland and boring chicken dishes? If so, then you’re in for a treat! This red wine chicken recipe is exactly what your taste buds have been craving. Trust me when I say, this dish is going to be your new go-to for dinner parties and romantic date nights.
This recipe boasts a bold and rich flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of red wine, brown sugar, garlic, and paprika creates a luscious, glossy sauce that will make your mouth water. Not to mention, the aroma will fill your home with a warm and inviting scent that will make everyone’s stomachs grumble in anticipation.
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s versatile and pairs well with many different side dishes. Feeling fancy? Serve it up with some roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. Want something more casual? Throw together a simple green salad or crusty bread to mop up the delectable sauce.
Another reason this dish is so lovable is that it’s easy to prepare. You don’t have to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen to create a masterpiece. With just a few common ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll have an impressive dish that will wow your guests or satisfy your family.
So what are you waiting for? Give this red wine chicken recipe a try and see just how amazing it can be. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
This red wine chicken recipe requires the following ingredients:
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Boneless, skinless chicken breast halves: This is the main ingredient of the dish. The chicken provides a lean source of protein that pairs well with rich and bold flavors.
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Garlic: Adds a pungent and savory flavor to the chicken.
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Olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken on medium-high or high heat.
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Red wine: A dry red wine like Pinot Noir is recommended for this recipe. It adds a subtle fruity flavor and aroma to the dish, giving it a hint of sophistication.
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Brown sugar: Gives balance to the dish by adding sweetness to complement the acidity of the wine.
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Paprika: A versatile spice that enhances the flavor, smell, and color of the dish.
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Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken according to your taste preference.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gone through the reason why this recipe is a must-try, let’s dive into the cooking details. With tender and flavorful chicken in a luscious glossy red wine sauce, this recipe is guaranteed to be one of your favorites. Here are the steps on how to make it:
Ingredient List:
- 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 2 teaspoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 2 teaspoons of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 cup of dry red wine (try Pinot Noir for a medium-bodied red)
- Bacon or chorizo (optional)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Season Chicken
Preheat your oven at 375°F. Season your chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear Chicken on Stovetop
In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken breasts and sear both sides for about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Remove Chicken from Pot
Remove chicken from pot and keep aside.
Step 4: Add Butter and Brown Sugar to Pot
In the same pot, add butter and brown sugar. Cook for about two minutes while stirring occasionally until sugar has dissolved.
Step 5: Deglaze Red Wine in Pot
Add one cup of dry red wine to the mixture and deglaze by scraping up any browned bits. Let simmer until liquid reduces by half.
Step 6: Add Garlic, Bacon or Chorizo (Optional)
Add garlic and bacon or chorizo pieces (if using).
Step 7: Return Chicken Back to Pot
Return chicken to the pot and coat each piece of chicken with the sauce.
Step 8: Bake Chicken in Oven
Cook in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 9: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Let chicken rest for five minutes then serve hot with sides such as rice, vegetables, or bread.
Now that you have learned how to create this braised red wine chicken dish, you can surprise and impress your guests with this delicious and flavorful meal.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about this red wine chicken recipe is that it is versatile and allows for substitutions and variations. Here are some ideas to try out:
– Cooking Wine: If you don’t have a bottle of red wine on hand or prefer not to cook with alcohol, you can substitute cooking wine. However, be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
– Different Cuts of Chicken: While boneless skinless chicken breast halves are used in this recipe, you can also use chicken thighs or even bone-in chicken pieces. Keep in mind that cooking times may need to be adjusted based on the cut of poultry used.
– White Wine: For a different flavor profile, white wine can be used instead of red wine. This will result in a lighter sauce and pairs well with lemon, herbs, and seafood.
– Bacon: Adding bacon to the sauce is an optional but delicious variation that adds another layer of flavor to the dish. Simply sauté chopped bacon until crispy and use the rendered fat as a base for the sauce.
– Spices: To mix up the seasonings, try adding thyme, rosemary, or sage to the paprika and brown sugar mixture.
Overall, feel free to experiment with different combinations to create your own unique version of this classic French dish.
Serving and Pairing
This red wine chicken recipe is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs exceptionally well with a variety of sides. The sauce is so flavorful that it can be served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. I recommend using hearty sides that will hold up to the rich and luscious glossy red wine sauce.
If you’re in the mood for a classic French pairing, serve this chicken dish with a glass of Pinot Noir. This medium-bodied wine has a fruit-forward flavor that complements the red wine sauce perfectly. A good rule of thumb when it comes to wine pairings is to match the color and flavor intensity of your food with your wine.
If you want to keep things simple, a side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette would be an excellent choice. The acidity in the dressing will help cut through the richness of the sauce, while the greens will provide a refreshing contrast.
For those who prefer beer over wine, go for a Belgian farmhouse ale or saison. Both have fruity and spicy notes that complement the savory flavors of this dish.
Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with Asian flavors! This chicken dish would go wonderfully with a bowl of red glutinous rice, chorizo, hong zao or mee sua seasoned with rice wine vinegar. The fusion of flavors might just surprise you!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This red wine chicken recipe is fantastic for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use. In fact, the flavors will only intensify with time, making it even more delicious with each passing day.
To store the chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Place it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, make sure to bring it to a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
To reheat the chicken, there are several ways you can go about it. You may want to use a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, you could place the chicken in a covered oven-safe dish and warm it at 350°F (180°C) for around 15-20 minutes.
One thing to keep in mind is that the sauce may thicken up over time. If this happens, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to bring it back to its original consistency.
For best results when making this dish ahead of time, I recommend cooking the chicken until it is almost done but still slightly pink in the center. This will ensure that when you reheat it later, it will still be moist and tender rather than dry and rubbery.
Overall, this red wine chicken recipe is perfect for those looking for a meal that can be made ahead of time and reheated easily. With its rich flavors and delicious sauce, you won’t even be able to tell that it wasn’t freshly cooked!
Tips for Perfect Results
When preparing this red wine chicken recipe, certain tips and tricks can help ensure perfect results every time. Here are some simple yet effective tips to follow:
1. Use a good quality dry red wine: Since this recipe is heavily dependent on the red wine sauce, using a good quality dry red wine will make a huge difference in the outcome of the dish. A medium-bodied Pinot Noir is recommended for this recipe.
2. Brown the chicken well: To achieve a flavorful and crispy exterior, it is important to brown the chicken breasts thoroughly before adding them to the wine sauce. Use medium-high or high heat and let each side cook for 4-5 minutes until it has turned golden brown.
3. Don’t forget the seasoning: Proper seasoning is key to bringing any dish to life. Season each side of the chicken generously with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and black pepper for that extra flavor.
4. Let the wine simmer: After adding the red wine to the Dutch oven, make sure to let it come to a simmer before adding any other ingredients. This will help infuse the chicken with flavorful notes from the wine.
5. Add butter for added richness: To make the sauce luscious and glossy, add one tablespoon of butter towards the end of cooking time after removing chicken breasts from Dutch oven.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a delicious red wine sauce that perfectly complements your juicy and tender boneless skinless chicken breast halves!
FAQ
Now, it’s time for the FAQ section of this Red Wine Chicken recipe. It’s understandable if you have some questions about certain ingredients or steps in the recipe, so let me clear things up for you. Below are some common questions that may come to mind as you embark on making this mouthwatering dish.
Does chicken go with red wine?
When it comes to pairing wine with roasted chicken, there are various options available. A full-flavored red, a medium-bodied rosé, or a dry white all complement this dish quite well. Additionally, you can never go wrong with an oaked Chardonnay or a Pinot Noir. In case you have a robust, savory gravy, a medium-bodied red like a Côtes du Rhône will fit the bill.
What wine is best for cooking chicken?
When it comes to selecting a wine for cooking, having a reliable choice is essential. Fortunately, both sauvignon blanc and chardonnay are versatile options that work well in a variety of dishes. While sauvignon blanc offers a crisp flavor, chardonnay is more full-bodied, but when used as an ingredient, their distinct flavor profiles are less noticeable.
Can you use red wine as a marinade?
Leftover wine can be a useful ingredient in your cooking. A wide range of dishes including stews, sauces, and desserts can be elevated by adding some Pinot Noir or Burgundy, or any red wine you have available. Standard red wine can be used to deglaze a pan, tenderize meat, and enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
What does cooking wine do to chicken?
When it comes to cooking, wine can serve as an acidic component that adds tenderness to meat, and it also imparts a delicious flavor to the dish. If you use a marinade that features wine, it can help retain the moisture of the protein while it cooks.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this red wine chicken recipe is truly a must-try. It offers a delectable blend of sweet and savory flavors, fresh herbs, and tender boneless skinless chicken breast halves in a luscious glossy red wine sauce. As a sommelier, I highly recommend using a medium-bodied dry red wine like Pinot Noir for an authentic coq au vin flavor.
This dish makes for an excellent meal to share with family and friends on special occasions or any day of the week. It’s easy to make, delicious, and can be customized using your favorite ingredients or variations. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to impress!
So go ahead and give it a try! Enjoy the rich taste of this classic coq au vin recipe with its braised red wine sauce, bacon, garlic flavors and perfectly seasoned chicken pieces. You’ll see why it’s a popular French dish that has stood the test of time.
Don’t forget to add your own twist to it by incorporating unique ingredients like chorizo or hong zao for that extra kick! Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and discovery. And who knows? You just might discover your new favorite dish!
Thank you for reading, and happy cooking!
Red Wine Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup red wine
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Cook garlic in oil until tender.
- Place chicken in the skillet, and cook about 10 minutes on each side, until no longer pink and juices run clear.
- Drain oil from skillet. Sprinkle chicken with paprika and 1 cup brown sugar. Pour red wine around chicken.
- Cover, and simmer about 15 to 20 minutes; lightly baste chicken with wine sauce while cooking. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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