40-clove Garlic Chicken

40-clove Garlic Chicken Recipe from France - Ingredients and Directions

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

40-Clove Garlic Chicken is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken with the aromatic and somewhat sweet essence of garlic. This recipe is perfect for those who love the depth of flavor that garlic can bring to a dish, without it being overwhelming. The combination of butter, olive oil, and herbs, along with a creamy sauce, makes this dish a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

History

The origins of 40-Clove Garlic Chicken are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have roots in French cuisine. Garlic has been a staple in Mediterranean cooking for centuries, and this dish exemplifies the French's skill in creating rich, flavorful meals with simple ingredients. The recipe gained popularity in the United States in the latter half of the 20th century, becoming a favorite for its bold use of garlic and its surprisingly mellow and sweet flavor after cooking.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken
1 tbsp of butter
2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
salt and white pepper to taste
4 tbsp of fresh rosemary
1 cup of flour
40 large peeled garlic cloves
1 cup of dry white wine (or water)
4 cups of chicken stock
0.5 cup of heavy cream

How to prepare

Heat the butter and olive oil in a deep heavy skillet.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
Toss in flour.
When the pan is hot, but not smoking, add the chicken, skin side down.
Sauté the chicken until golden brown on both sides.
Remove the chicken from the pan.
Add garlic cloves and sauté until light brown.
Add white wine and chicken stock.
Return the chicken to the pan.
Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
Remove the chicken and keep it warm.
Turn the heat to high and reduce the liquid by 0.67.
Remove from heat and add to a blender, then add cream and puree the sauce.
Adjust the seasoning and serve the sauce over the chicken.

Variations

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a quicker cooking time.
2. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
3. Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, acidic note.
For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to vary the flavor profile. Adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce can introduce a bright, acidic note.
For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Adding a splash of lemon juice to the sauce can also introduce a bright, acidic contrast to the richness of the garlic and cream.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your 40-Clove Garlic Chicken turns out perfectly, consider these tips:

- Use fresh, large cloves of garlic to make peeling easier and to ensure a sweeter, more mellow flavor.

- Browning the chicken before simmering helps to lock in flavors and gives the skin a delightful texture.

- Be patient when reducing the sauce; this concentrates the flavors and creates a rich, creamy texture that's perfect for drizzling over the chicken.

- If the sauce is too thick after blending, you can thin it with a little more chicken stock until you reach the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the 40-Clove Garlic Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. Mashed potatoes or a simple pasta can also complement the creamy garlic sauce beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken and sautéing the garlic are crucial steps that build the foundation of flavor for this dish. Simmering the chicken in the stock allows it to become tender and infused with garlic flavor, while reducing the sauce concentrates the flavors and creates a rich, creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of fresh rosemary, thyme makes a good substitute. For those avoiding dairy, olive oil can be used in place of butter, and a dairy-free cream can replace the heavy cream.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic and chicken stock mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, brown the chicken, and proceed with the recipe. This can save time and streamline the cooking process.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken on a platter with the sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and roasted garlic cloves for an elegant presentation. A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley can add a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of this dish. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon to cleanse the palate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover 40-Clove Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a little chicken stock if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of 40-Clove Garlic Chicken contains approximately 400-450 calories, making it a hearty meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source being the flour used for dusting the chicken. One serving of 40-Clove Garlic Chicken contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those on a low-carb diet.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the butter, olive oil, and heavy cream. These ingredients contribute to the dish's rich flavor and creamy texture. A single serving contains about 20-25 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein. A serving of 40-Clove Garlic Chicken provides roughly 25-30 grams of protein, making it a filling and nutritious meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Garlic is not only flavorful but also packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, selenium, and manganese. Chicken stock adds additional nutrients, including collagen. Together, these ingredients make the dish a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (butter and heavy cream) and gluten (from the flour). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should consider substitutions.

Summary

Overall, 40-Clove Garlic Chicken is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients, with moderate calories and low carbohydrates. It's a hearty, flavorful meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

40-Clove Garlic Chicken is a timeless dish that combines simple ingredients to create a meal that's rich in flavor and comforting to the soul. With its deep garlic flavor, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, it's a recipe that's sure to impress. Whether you're a garlic lover or just looking for a delicious new chicken recipe to try, this dish is a must-make.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for 40-clove Garlic Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her amazing culinary skills, and I always looked forward to our time together in the kitchen.

On that particular day, Mrs. Jenkins had a twinkle in her eye as she pulled out a well-worn recipe card from her collection. She excitedly told me that she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer amount of garlic involved - 40 cloves to be exact!

Mrs. Jenkins explained that the key to the dish was slow-roasting the chicken with all those cloves of garlic, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich, savory taste. She also mentioned that the dish was not only delicious but also had some health benefits, as garlic is known for its medicinal properties.

I watched intently as Mrs. Jenkins prepared the chicken, carefully peeling each clove of garlic and placing them around the bird in the roasting pan. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

After hours of slow roasting in the oven, the chicken emerged golden brown and glistening with the garlic-infused juices. Mrs. Jenkins carved the bird with precision, revealing tender meat that practically fell off the bone. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavor unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

From that moment on, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. Mrs. Jenkins graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly began experimenting in my own kitchen. Over time, I adapted the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a splash of white wine and some fresh herbs to enhance the flavors even further.

I started serving 40-clove Garlic Chicken at family gatherings and dinner parties, and it quickly became a favorite among my loved ones. The dish was always met with rave reviews, and I took great pride in knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the generations.

As the years went by, I continued to make 40-clove Garlic Chicken for special occasions and everyday meals alike. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a connection to Mrs. Jenkins and her grandmother, as though they were guiding me through the process with their wisdom and expertise.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to this beloved recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my culinary skills. I am proud to carry on the tradition of 40-clove Garlic Chicken, knowing that each bite carries with it the memories and lessons of those who came before me.

In the end, it is not just about the food itself, but the stories and connections that are woven into every dish we create. And for me, 40-clove Garlic Chicken will always be a reminder of the power of tradition, friendship, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with those we love.