I recently discovered a mouthwatering recipe that has completely transformed my love for chicken – Chicken with 40 cloves of garlic, straight from the beloved Tony’s Kitchen. With its tender and juicy meat, infused with the incredible flavors of 40 whole cloves of garlic, this dish is an absolute game-changer. And to top it all off, Tony’s Kitchen uses their signature le creuset garlic pot to cook this masterpiece, ensuring maximum flavor and perfect texture. Trust me, this recipe is a must-try for all garlic and chicken enthusiasts out there!
Ingredients
To make this delicious chicken dish, you will need the following ingredients:
Chicken
Chicken is the star of this recipe. You can use a whole chicken, or if you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs. The choice is yours!
Garlic
Garlic adds a wonderful flavor and aroma to the dish. You will need 40 cloves of garlic for this recipe. It may sound like a lot, but trust me, it’s what makes this dish truly special.
Olive oil
Olive oil will be used to sauté the garlic and sear the chicken. It adds a rich and flavorful base to the dish.
Butter
Butter will be used to coat the chicken before baking. It helps to keep the meat moist and adds a lovely richness to the dish.
Fresh thyme
Fresh thyme adds a fragrant and earthy flavor to the chicken. It pairs perfectly with the garlic and brings out the natural flavors of the dish.
Salt
Salt is an essential ingredient in any recipe. It helps to enhance the flavors of the other ingredients and brings everything together.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish. It balances out the flavors and gives the chicken a nice kick.
White wine
White wine adds acidity and brightness to the dish. It helps to deglaze the pan and brings out the flavors of the chicken and garlic.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth will be used to create a delicious sauce for the chicken. It adds a savory and comforting element to the dish.
Preparation
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s get started with the preparation:
Marinating the chicken
If you’re using a whole chicken, it’s a good idea to marinate it before cooking. This helps to infuse the chicken with flavors and ensures that every bite is tasty. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and some minced garlic. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it into every nook and cranny. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
Preparing the garlic
Peeling and preparing 40 cloves of garlic may seem like a daunting task, but it’s worth the effort. The garlic becomes sweet and tender during cooking, adding a delicious flavor to the dish. To peel the garlic, you can either use a garlic peeler or simply smash each clove with the flat side of a knife and then remove the skin. Once the garlic is peeled, set it aside for later use.
Searing the chicken
To start cooking the chicken, heat some olive oil in a large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken and sear it on all sides until golden brown. This process helps to develop a flavorful crust on the chicken and seals in the juices. Once the chicken is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Baking the chicken
Now it’s time to bring all the flavors together and finish cooking the chicken. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In the same skillet or Dutch oven used for searing the chicken, melt some butter and add the prepared garlic cloves along with fresh thyme sprigs. Cook them for a few minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly softened. Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, pour in some white wine and chicken broth, and cover the dish. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the meat is fully cooked and tender.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to consider when making this chicken dish:
Using chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken
If you prefer dark meat or find it more convenient, you can use chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken. Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, and they cook faster than a whole chicken. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly, and you’ll still end up with a delicious and satisfying dish.
Adding other herbs and spices
While fresh thyme is the traditional herb used in this recipe, you can experiment with other herbs and spices to suit your taste. Rosemary, sage, or even a hint of cayenne pepper can add an interesting twist to the dish. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Serving suggestions
This flavorful chicken dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with roasted potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic and comforting meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The garlic cloves become soft and spreadable during cooking, so smearing them on bread is an absolute delight.
Conclusion
Chicken with 40 cloves of garlic is a classic recipe that never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant garlic, and aromatic herbs creates a heavenly aroma and a burst of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish is sure to satisfy. So, gather the ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly memorable and delicious chicken dish. Bon appétit!
