Zimbabwean cuisine is characterized by its rich flavors and the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This Herb-Infused Braised Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables recipe showcases an exquisite blend of herbs and vegetables that are often found in Zimbabwean markets. The infusion of herbs imbues the chicken with aromatic flavors, while the seasonal vegetables provide a satisfying texture and vibrant colors, making this dish a perfect meal for gatherings or culinary explorations on a platform like Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe, perfect for sharing or even selling!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth, low-sodium
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika. Ensure the spices are rubbed evenly over the surface to enhance flavor.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear until golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, creating an aromatic base.
- Add the Vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots, diced bell pepper, and zucchinis. Stir the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Incorporate the Herbs: Add the fresh thyme, rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan. Stir to combine the herbs with the vegetables.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful brown bits. This will enhance the depth of flavor in your braise.
- Return the Chicken: Once the broth is bubbling, nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the chicken.
- Braise: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors while remaining tender and juicy.
- Add Spinach: In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt. This not only adds color but also a nutritious element to your dish.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the Herb-Infused Braised Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables hot, allowing the beautiful colors of the vegetables to shine on your plate. Pair it with rice or sadza for a traditional Zimbabwean touch.
Cooking Tips:
- Choose seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and freshness. You can customize the vegetables based on what you have available.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking; this can enhance the flavor as the juices redistribute.
- For those interested in sharing or selling their culinary creations, consider pricing the dish competitively on Zimbo Menu to reach a broader audience.
Explore More!
Ready to cook up something special? This Herb-Infused Braised Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables is just one of the many delightful recipes that can spark your culinary creativity. Check out the full range of dishes you can share on Zimbo Menu, where local flavors meet innovation. Download the Zimbo Menu app to see if the marketplace is a good fit for your hobbies and business needs.
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