Chicken In Its Own Juices
A rich, flavorful chicken dish cooked in its own juices with almonds, raisins, pickled fruit, and aromatic wine, perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin and cut the chickens into small pieces.
- Fry the chicken pieces in oil until golden brown.
- Blend the tomatoes and garlic together, then add to the fried chicken.
- Add the pickled fruit, raisins, almonds, Jerez wine, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in water and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the Jerez wine and garlic overnight. If you don't have Jerez, a dry sherry or white wine can be used as a substitute. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth. You can also use skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. Be sure to adjust the vinegar according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with saffron rice with currants for an aromatic complement. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a hearty option, consider crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. It's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken In Its Own Juices contains roughly 652 calories, with 5g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 603mg per serving (26% 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 another type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with rabbit or even pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these meats may require different cooking durations to ensure they are tender and flavorful.
What type of pickled fruit works best for this recipe?
Pickled peaches or cherries are excellent choices, as their sweetness balances the savory flavors of the dish. You can also experiment with other pickled fruits you enjoy, just ensure they are not too overpowering.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. Prepare it a day ahead, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving for the best results.
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).