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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with the rich flavors of garlic, onion, and Spanish spices. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs or breasts, making sure they are coated evenly with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the fridge for the best flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavor will be!
2. Prepare the Pan
While the chicken is marinating, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, letting it get nice and hot.
3. Sear the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until the skin is golden and crispy. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely crisp texture to the skin.
4. Cook the Aromatics
Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This will create a savory base for your chicken.
5. Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious brown bits from the bottom of the pan. These little bits of flavor will make your sauce even more delicious.
6. Slow Cook the Chicken
Return the seared chicken to the pan, skin-side up, and spoon some of the onions and garlic over the top. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and allow the chicken to cook slowly for about 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This slow cooking ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender.
7. Finish with Lemon and Herbs
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the chicken for a fresh, zesty finish. Garnish with fresh parsley and thyme for added flavor and color.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Every Time
- Choose Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken: For maximum flavor and tenderness, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken. The skin helps lock in moisture, and the bones add extra flavor during the cooking process.
- Don’t Rush the Marinating: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will yield the most flavorful results. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 30 minutes.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Slow cooking the chicken at a low temperature helps it retain its juiciness. This method prevents the chicken from drying out while allowing the flavors to really develop.
- Experiment with Spices: This recipe uses classic Spanish spices like smoked paprika and oregano, but feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Adding a bit of saffron or bay leaves can introduce even more complexity to the dish.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This chicken recipe is an absolute game-changer. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet flavorful enough for a special occasion. The combination of marinating, searing, and slow cooking ensures that each bite is tender, juicy, and packed with savory Spanish-inspired flavors. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients and steps makes it a dish anyone can master.
If you’ve been looking for a new way to cook chicken that’s both delicious and easy, give this Spanish method a try. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple change can elevate your cooking and make every meal feel like a culinary adventure. Enjoy!
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