Enjoy the essence of Portuguese cuisine with this Portuguese Chicken with Grape Juice recipe. The rich, sweet flavor of grape juice enhances tender chicken, aromatic spices, and a luscious sauce, creating a comforting and family-friendly dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup red or white grape juice
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup cream (for a richer sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and sear on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pan, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Deglaze with Grape Juice:
- Pour in the grape juice, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Return the chicken to the pan. Add chicken stock, cinnamon, and the bay leaf. Cover and simmer on low heat for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Optional Enhancements:
- Add mushrooms during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra flavor. Stir in cream just before serving for a richer sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Family-Friendly: Made with non-alcoholic grape juice for everyone to enjoy.
- Rich and Comforting: The grape juice adds a sweet depth to the sauce.
- Authentic Flavors: Preserves the traditional Portuguese essence with a unique twist.
This Portuguese Chicken with Grape Juice is a delightful twist on a traditional dish. The sweet, rich flavors of grape juice complement the tender chicken and aromatic spices beautifully, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy!
