Spanish Chicken. Recipe

Spanish Chicken, also known as Pollo Español, is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Spain with tender and juicy chicken. This recipe has been enjoyed for generations, and it is a popular main course in Spanish cuisine. The rich and aromatic ingredients come together to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

One interesting fact about Spanish Chicken is that it is heavily influenced by the Moorish occupation of Spain, which lasted for nearly 800 years. During this time, the Moors introduced spices and cooking techniques that have since become integral to Spanish cuisine. As a result, Spanish Chicken features a harmonious blend of spices and flavors that are characteristic of both Spanish and Moorish cooking.

To prepare Spanish Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Now let's dive into the preparation process:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks generously with salt and pepper.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, skin side down, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers have started to soften.

6. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.

7. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and white wine. Stir well to combine.

8. Return the chicken pieces to the skillet, arranging them in a single layer. Spoon some of the tomato mixture over the chicken.

9. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

10. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

11. Serve the Spanish Chicken hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, steamed rice, or roasted potatoes. Enjoy!

This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple in Spanish households and is often shared during family gatherings and celebrations. Its rich and aromatic flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and it is sure to transport you to the vibrant streets of Spain.

If you enjoyed Spanish Chicken, you might also like other dishes from Spanish cuisine that showcase similar flavors and ingredients. One such dish is Paella, a saffron-infused rice dish that is typically cooked with a combination of meat, seafood, and vegetables. Another popular dish is Patatas Bravas, which consists of crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli. Both of these dishes highlight the bold and vibrant flavors that are characteristic of Spanish cuisine.

So whether you're looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious Spanish Chicken dinner or wanting to explore the diverse flavors of Spanish cuisine, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Buena suerte and enjoy your culinary adventures in the world of Spanish gastronomy!

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