I discovered this secret in a Spanish family. Now I always cook chicken like this!

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

Start by creating a marinade that’s packed with bright, zesty flavors. In a small bowl, mix together the orange juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This combination of citrus and spices will infuse the chicken with layers of flavor.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over the chicken. Rub the marinade into the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though overnight is ideal for maximum flavor infusion.

3. Cook the Chicken:

In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, skin-side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the skin becomes golden and crispy. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.

4. Add Broth for Moisture:

Reduce the heat to low and add the chicken broth (or water) to the pan. Cover with a lid and allow the chicken to simmer gently for another 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. The broth will help keep the chicken juicy while infusing it with more flavor.

5. Finishing Touches:

Once the chicken is fully cooked through, remove it from the pan. If desired, increase the heat to medium-high to reduce the liquid left in the pan for a few minutes, creating a rich sauce. Pour the sauce over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your flavorful, crispy chicken with your favorite side dishes – rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad. The juicy, tender chicken with its crispy skin will surely be the star of the meal.

Why This Spanish Method Works:

1. Citrus Magic: The citrus juices help tenderize the chicken while adding a bright, fresh flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the meat. The acidity also ensures the chicken is never dry.
2. Herbs and Spices: The combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and oregano gives the chicken a warm, earthy flavor that’s typical in Spanish cuisine. These spices enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and give it an aromatic depth.
3. Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the chicken at a lower heat after searing it allows the meat to retain its moisture, preventing it from becoming dry or tough. The broth adds both flavor and moisture, making the chicken extra juicy.
4. Crispy Skin: The key to achieving a crispy skin is searing the chicken at a high temperature initially, which helps render the fat and results in a beautiful, golden-brown exterior. The low-simmering step locks in the moisture while keeping the skin crisp.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken:

• Juicy and Tender: Thanks to the marination and low-slow cooking method, this chicken stays incredibly juicy and tender.
• Crispy Skin: You’ll get the perfect golden, crispy skin every time, making each bite absolutely delicious.
• Flavorful: The combination of citrus and spices creates a unique depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
• Easy and Quick: This method is straightforward and doesn’t require complicated steps. Plus, it’s done in less than an hour!

Final Thoughts:

I can honestly say that after discovering this secret from a Spanish family, I’ve never cooked chicken the same way again. The combination of citrus, spices, and slow-cooking transforms the chicken into something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or for guests, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. So, next time you’re in the kitchen, give this Spanish method a try – you won’t be disappointed!