Middle Eastern Inspiration: A Flavorful Chicken Recipe
The Star of the Show: Sumac
In the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine, sumac brings a tangy, citrusy flavor and a vibrant pink hue to this mouthwatering chicken dish. This aromatic spice is the perfect addition to elevate your cooking game.
Getting Started
Begin by caramelizing the onions until they’re golden brown, then mix in the fresh parsley and garlic. Next, combine the toasted bread with the onion mixture and set it aside. Now, it’s time to prepare the star of the show – the sumac-rubbed chicken.
The Perfect Chicken
To ensure juicy, flavorful chicken, remove the backbone and press down on the chicken to flatten it. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper, then rub the sumac mixture all over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Roasting to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F and roast the chicken on top of the bread mixture until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it into quarters.
The Finishing Touches
While the chicken is resting, combine the fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon juice in a bowl. Add the toasted bread to the mix and toss everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice to taste.
A Match Made in Heaven: Beverage Pairing
To complement the bright, citrusy flavors of this dish, try pairing it with a glass of Bodegas Dos Victorias José Pariente Verdejo from Rueda, Spain. This fruit-forward wine boasts the perfect balance of sweetness and body to enhance the flavors of the chicken, bread, and sumac.
Tips and Variations
- For an authentic touch, use Armenian or Persian cucumbers, which don’t require peeling or seeding.
- Substitute Roma or cherry tomatoes if fresh summer tomatoes are out of season.
- Find ground sumac at Middle Eastern markets or online at Kalustyan’s.
- Plan ahead and start preparing the dish in the morning to allow the seasoned chicken to rest for several hours before roasting.
* Servings: 4 | Difficulty: Easy | Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes *
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