Introduction
Are you ready to elevate your next gathering with a dish that’s bursting with flavor? Say “I do” to this Wedding Chicken, a succulent recipe infused with Greek influences that’s perfect for any celebration, whether you’re tying the knot or simply hosting friends. Juicy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible, this chicken dish will be the star of your feast, offering a culinary experience that’s both comforting and celebratory.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 whole chicken (about 3½–4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4-6
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) – let’s get things sizzling!
2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper and sear in a hot pan with olive oil until golden. It’s all about getting that crispy skin!
3. In a mixing bowl, combine garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, olive oil, and lemon slices. This is your flavor bomb marinade that’s gonna take these chicken pieces on a Mediterranean holiday!
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Let it bask in those flavors – the lemon slices want in on the action too!
5. Transfer the chicken and those beauties to a roasting dish. Pour in wine and chicken broth, top it off with extra lemon slices, and let the oven magic happen for 45 minutes.
6. Keep an eye on it around the 30-minute mark – if it’s browning too quickly, tent with foil.
This Wedding Chicken isn’t just a dish; it’s a centerpiece for celebration. Each bite takes you on a flavorful journey, and the aromatic notes will have your guests gathered around the table, sharing laughter and good times. Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or even cozy family dinners, it turns any occasion into a feast to remember. Get ready for compliments to roll in, and don’t forget to snap a photo for the ‘gram!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for a perfect roast.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a hot pan, and sear the chicken until golden brown, achieving that crispy skin.
Step 3: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine 3 finely grated cloves of garlic, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the thinly sliced lemon. Stir this mixture well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the seared chicken pieces, ensuring that each piece is coated. Include the lemon slices in the marinade for added flavor.
Step 5: Transfer to Roasting Dish
Transfer the marinated chicken and lemon slices to a roasting dish. Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine and 1 cup of chicken broth. Add additional lemon slices on top for extra zest.
Step 6: Roast the Chicken
Place the roasting dish in the preheated oven and let the chicken roast for 45 minutes.
Step 7: Monitor Cooking
Keep an eye on the chicken around the 30-minute mark. If the chicken is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Notes
Flavor Enhancement
Allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours in the refrigerator can enhance the flavor even more.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh Greek salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Preheating
Ensure you preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to create the perfect environment for roasting your chicken. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin and juicy meat.
Searing
Sear the chicken pieces in a hot pan with olive oil until golden brown. This technique creates a flavorful crust and helps lock in moisture, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Marinating
Combine garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, olive oil, and lemon slices to create a marinade that will infuse the chicken with Mediterranean flavors. Letting the chicken soak in this mixture allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Layering
When transferring chicken to a roasting dish, layer it with the marinade, wine, and chicken broth, adding lemon slices on top. This layering ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Tenting
If the chicken is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil. This technique helps regulate the temperature and prevents the skin from burning while the inside cooks thoroughly.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Using bone-in, skin-on pieces can reduce cooking time and still yield a flavorful dish.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if you have more time, a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the taste.
What can I serve with this wedding chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or rice pilaf, making it versatile for any celebration.
Can I use white vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, white vinegar can be used as a substitute in a pinch, but it will slightly alter the flavor profile of the marinade.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day in advance. Simply roast it when you’re ready to serve for a convenient and delicious option!
Conclusion
This Wedding Chicken recipe is a perfect centerpiece for any gathering, offering vibrant flavors and juicy tenderness that will impress your guests. With simple cooking techniques and a little love, you can elevate any celebration!
