Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs

Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs Recipe from Ghana

Region / culture: Ghana | Preparation time: 12-24 hours | Cooking time: 50-60 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic salt creates a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. This dish is easy to prepare and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The origins of Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs are not well-documented, but it is believed to have Mediterranean influences. The use of fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil in the marinade is common in Mediterranean cuisine, and these flavors come together beautifully in this dish.

Ingredients

8 to 10 chicken drumsticks or chicken wings
juice of 6 to 8 lemons
1 head romaine lettuce
0.5 bunch cilantro

Marinade

2 tbsp olive oil
1.5 cups minced mixed fresh herbs, or 0.75 cup mixed dried herbs
0.5 cup cherry tomatoes
1 lemon, cut into wedges, for garnish
2 or 3 tsp garlic salt
0.5 tsp salt
3 or 4 large mushrooms, cleaned and thinly sliced
6 cups hot cooked long-grain white rice (optional)

How to prepare

Rinse and dry the chicken pieces.
To make the marinade, thoroughly mix the olive oil, garlic salt, lemon juice, herbs, and salt in a large bowl.
If you are using wings, cut them into mini drumsticks and flat portions.
Put chicken pieces into the marinade, and stir well so that all the pieces are well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours to marinate thoroughly.
Preheat the oven to 400°F/200°C.
Arrange the chicken pieces and marinade in a large baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove from the oven and pour off the marinade.
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until well done and browned.
As the chicken cooks, turn the pieces regularly so that they brown evenly.
The outside of the chicken pieces should be crisp, and the inside soft and moist.
Keep a close eye on the baking process.
Separate the lettuce leaves.
Wash and dry them and arrange on a large plate.
Neatly arrange the cooked chicken pieces on top and garnish with cherry tomatoes, mushroom slices, cilantro sprigs, and lemon wedges.
Serve the chicken hot or cold, alone or with the rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken wings with chicken thighs or breasts for a different texture.
Add additional herbs or spices to the marinade for a more intense flavor.
Serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Turning the chicken pieces regularly while baking will help them brown evenly.

- Keep a close eye on the baking process to ensure that the chicken is cooked through but still moist.

- Serve the chicken hot or cold, depending on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs with a side of long-grain white rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, but you can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any combination of fresh herbs you have on hand for the marinade.

- Substitute cherry tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.

- Use any type of mushrooms you prefer in place of the sliced mushrooms.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cooked chicken pieces on a bed of lettuce leaves and garnish with cherry tomatoes, mushroom slices, cilantro sprigs, and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the lemon and herbs.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but individuals with allergies to specific ingredients should check the ingredient list carefully.

Summary

Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. The flavorful marinade infuses the chicken with amazing taste, and the dish is easy to prepare. Serve it hot or cold with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that belonged to my mother. As I sifted through the yellowed and crumpled papers, a worn piece of parchment caught my eye. It was a recipe for Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs, written in elegant cursive handwriting.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the ingredients intrigued me. The combination of lemon, herbs, and chicken sounded like a perfect blend of flavors. I could almost smell the tantalizing aroma wafting from the kitchen as I read through the instructions.

Intrigued, I decided to give the recipe a try. I gathered the ingredients – a plump roasting chicken, fresh herbs from my garden, lemons from the tree in the backyard – and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped, mixed, and seasoned, the familiar rhythm of cooking enveloped me, soothing my soul.

The chicken roasted in the oven, filling the house with a mouthwatering scent that made my stomach growl in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish, to see if it lived up to the promise of its tantalizing aroma.

Finally, the timer dinged, and I pulled the chicken out of the oven. The skin was golden and crispy, the meat tender and juicy. I spooned some of the pan juices over the top, sprinkled with fresh herbs, and squeezed a bit of lemon juice for a final touch.

I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the flavors that danced on my tongue. The lemon added a bright, citrusy note that cut through the richness of the chicken, while the herbs added a fresh, earthy undertone. It was a symphony of flavors that melted in my mouth, leaving me longing for another bite.

As I sat at the table, savoring each mouthful, I couldn't help but think of the journey this recipe had taken to reach me. Perhaps it had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own. Or maybe it had been discovered by accident, a happy culinary experiment that had stood the test of time.

Whatever its origin, I was grateful to have stumbled upon this gem of a recipe. It had opened up a new world of flavors and possibilities, reminding me of the joy that cooking can bring. And as I sat there, enjoying the fruits of my labor, I made a promise to myself to continue exploring, experimenting, and creating in the kitchen.

For cooking is not just about nourishing the body, but also the soul. And with each dish we make, we create a little piece of magic that brings joy and comfort to those we share it with.

And so, as I finished my meal and wiped my lips with a napkin, I knew that this recipe for Chicken Dorinda with Lemon and Herbs would become a cherished part of my repertoire, a reminder of the power of good food and good company to bring warmth and happiness into our lives.