Chicken steak with cherries

Chicken Thighs with Sour Cherries – a unique recipe that will add a touch of elegance and originality to any dinner table. This savory combination of chicken and sweet-sour cherries, accompanied by delicate hints of garlic and spices, will transform an ordinary evening into a memorable one. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this simple yet impressive recipe!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients needed

- 8 chicken thighs (approximately 1.2 kg)
- 200 g sour cherries (preferably fresh, but canned without syrup will work)
- 100 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
- 50 ml homemade sour cherry liqueur for an authentic taste
- 1/2 celery root (approximately 200 g)
- Fresh celery leaves (for garnish)
- 1 large onion
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Coriander seeds (approximately 1 teaspoon)
- Salt (to taste)
- White pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
- 50-60 ml water

A Brief History

Chicken thighs with sour cherries is a recipe that combines culinary tradition with modernity. The combination of meat and fruit is not new; rather, it's a technique used for centuries in various culinary cultures. Chicken, a versatile ingredient, pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart flavor of sour cherries, creating an explosion of flavors that delights the palate. This recipe is perfect for festive meals, as well as for a casual dinner with loved ones.

Step-by-step for a Perfect Roast

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Score the skin in a few places to allow the spices to penetrate and achieve a delicious crust.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel and quarter the onion, and cut the celery into small pieces. These vegetables will add a subtle, aromatic flavor to the roast. Slice the garlic thinly or crush it slightly to release its aromas.

3. Assembling the dish: In a large baking dish, grease the bottom with olive oil. Place the chicken thighs and insert the garlic cloves. Add the onion, celery, and celery leaves. Sprinkle the coriander seeds, salt, and white pepper – these spices will enhance the flavors of the meat.

4. Adding water: Pour 50-60 ml of water into the dish to prevent the vegetables and chicken from burning. This will create a delicious sauce during baking.

5. Roasting the meat: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast the thighs for about 40 minutes, or until they start to develop a golden, crispy crust.

6. Adding the sour cherries: After 40 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Add the sour cherries (you can leave the pits for a more intense flavor), the freshly squeezed orange juice, and the sour cherry liqueur. These ingredients will add a sweet-tart flavor and a distinctive aroma to the dish.

7. Finalizing the roasting: Put the dish back in the oven and roast for another 20 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken, and the sour cherries will release their juice, enriching the flavors.

8. Serving: The chicken thighs with sour cherries are ready! You can serve them alongside roasted new potatoes or a fresh green salad. A side of rice or mashed potatoes would perfectly complement this dish.

Useful Tips

- Sour cherries: If you choose to use canned sour cherries, make sure to drain them well before adding them to the dish. If opting for fresh cherries, look for firm ones without blemishes.
- Orange juice: Always use freshly squeezed juice for the best flavor. Avoid store-bought juices that may contain additives and preservatives.
- Types of meat: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- Maintaining moisture: If you notice the chicken drying out, you can add a little extra water to the dish. This will help keep the meat juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like apricots or peaches for a different taste.
2. How can I store leftovers? Leftover roast can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
3. What is the calorie count? A serving of chicken thighs with sour cherries contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and other ingredients used.

Possible Variations

- Add herbs: You can add fresh rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cherry sauce: You can thicken the sauce by adding cornstarch mixed with water at the end of the roasting process.
- Glazed chicken: If you want a crispier crust, you can glaze the chicken with a mixture of honey and mustard before placing it in the oven.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and start cooking! Whether you're preparing this chicken thighs with sour cherries for a special dinner or simply to treat your family, the result will surely please everyone. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks, 200 g sour cherries, 100 ml orange juice, 50 ml sour cherry liqueur, 1/2 celery, celery leaves, 1 onion, coriander seeds, salt, white pepper, 4 cloves of garlic.

 Tags:  steak chicken meat sour cherries