Chicken Ala John Sawaya
Juicy chicken pieces seasoned with spices, perfect for hearty meals and versatile for various cuisines. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick vine leaves when they have a light green color and are medium size, not too large or small.
- Remove stems with a sharp knife where the stem meets the leaf.
- If using fresh leaves, blanch in boiling water for a few seconds and drain on paper towels.
- For frozen leaves, defrost thoroughly before use to prevent tearing.
- Leaves can be frozen by wiping with a damp cloth and rolling into freezer bags of about 50 leaves.
- Canned leaves in brine should be washed and dried on paper towels before use.
- Roll leaves into bundles, tie with string, and place four or five bundles in a jar filled with brine.
- Ensure the seal does not leak and no air bubbles are present.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix for several hours or overnight. If you don't have fresh basil or rosemary, you can substitute with dried herbs, using about a third of the amount. Ensure your chicken pieces are cut evenly for consistent cooking, and consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F. This recipe pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Ala John Sawaya on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the dish well, and for a complete experience, consider pairing it with Wedding Rice for an added touch of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chicken Ala John Sawaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Ala John Sawaya contains roughly 111 calories, with 7g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (313% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and potassium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 545mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as boneless pieces will cook faster. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for paprika?
If you don't have paprika, you can use smoked paprika for a different flavor profile or even cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Cooking it ahead of time is also an option; just reheat it gently before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).