Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering adventure that bridges the gap between sweet and savory, traditional and innovative! This Persian Chicken and Peaches recipe is not just a meal – it's a sensory experience that will transport you to the vibrant kitchens of Iran with every single bite. Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken thighs perfectly complemented by caramelized peaches and aromatic spices that dance on your palate, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Persian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 peaches, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken thighs by patting them dry with paper towels and seasoning generously with salt, pepper, and turmeric on both sides.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and sear the chicken thighs skin-side down until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, sauté the sliced onions until they become soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to enhance the flavor.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them among the onions. Add the sliced peaches around the chicken.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the lid during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the peaches to caramelize slightly.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving. Plate the chicken thighs with peaches and onions, spooning the pan juices over the top.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for maximum flavor and juiciness. Pat them completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Spice Matters: Toast your turmeric briefly before adding to enhance its flavor and release its full aromatic potential. Fresh, high-quality spices make a world of difference.
- Peach Perfection: Select ripe but firm peaches that will hold their shape during cooking. If peaches aren't in season, you can substitute with nectarines or even dried apricots.
- Low and Slow: The key to this dish is gentle simmering. Keep the heat low and cover the skillet to ensure the chicken remains tender and the peaches caramelize beautifully.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh mint isn't just a garnish – it's a flavor enhancer that brings brightness and freshness to the rich dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve over fluffy basmati rice or with warm flatbread to soak up the delicious pan juices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
