Chicken in Honey Recipe from Tunisia with Ground Almonds and Basil

Chicken in honey

Chicken in Honey Recipe from Tunisia with Ground Almonds and Basil
Region / culture: Tunisia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken in honey
Chicken in honey

Chicken in honey is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory taste of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.

History

The origins of chicken in honey can be traced back to ancient times when honey was used as a natural sweetener in cooking. Over the years, different variations of this dish have emerged, each with its own unique twist on the classic recipe.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Combine the macaroons, almonds, and beaten egg. Season with basil and a pinch of black pepper.
  2. Season the cavity of a chicken with salt and pepper. Stuff with almond mixture.
  3. Sew or skewer the vents and truss the wings and legs close to the body.
  4. Prick the skin with tines of a fork. Rub it with a mixture of oil and honey.
  5. Roast the chicken in a moderate oven at 350°F. Baste frequently with melted butter and pan juices.
  6. Cook for about 1.5 hours or until tender.

Variations

  • Substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a touch of spice by sprinkling some red pepper flakes on the chicken before roasting.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken well before stuffing it with the almond mixture to enhance the flavors.

- Basting the chicken with melted butter and pan juices while roasting will help keep the meat moist and tender.

- To ensure even cooking, truss the wings and legs close to the body and prick the skin with a fork before roasting.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chicken in honey with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the chicken in the oven at a moderate temperature ensures that it cooks evenly and retains its moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have macaroons on hand, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the almond mixture and stuff the chicken ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to roast.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken in honey pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of chicken in honey contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of chicken in honey contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of chicken in honey contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of chicken in honey contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken in honey is a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and eggs.

Summary

Chicken in honey is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chicken in honey is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory taste of chicken. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a delicious and impressive meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

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 had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Johnson, with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her kitchen for a cool glass of lemonade.

As we sat at her kitchen table, chatting and sipping our drinks, Mrs. Johnson suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. She emerged a few moments later, holding a yellowed piece of paper in her hand.

"I want to share a special recipe with you," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's for chicken in honey, and it's been in my family for generations."

I was intrigued and eagerly accepted the recipe. Mrs. Johnson went on to explain how her grandmother had learned the recipe from a traveling merchant who had stopped in their village many years ago. The merchant had brought spices and ingredients from far off lands, and this recipe had been one of his specialties.

I carefully noted down the ingredients and instructions, feeling a sense of excitement at the thought of trying something new and exotic in my own kitchen. Mrs. Johnson then offered to show me how to prepare the dish, and we spent the rest of the afternoon cooking together.

The process was surprisingly simple, yet the flavors that emerged from the combination of honey, spices, and tender chicken were truly extraordinary. As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made this chicken in honey dish countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at the unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe was when my grandchildren came to visit for the summer. They were always eager to help me in the kitchen, and I decided to teach them how to make chicken in honey.

It was a joy to watch their faces light up as they mixed the ingredients together, their hands sticky with honey and spices. As the dish cooked in the oven, filling the house with its mouthwatering aroma, I could see the pride and excitement in their eyes.

When we sat down to eat, my grandchildren eagerly dug into their plates, exclaiming over how delicious the chicken tasted. It was a proud moment for me, knowing that I had passed down a cherished family recipe to the next generation.

As I look back on the many years of cooking and sharing this recipe, I realize that it has become more than just a dish to me. It is a symbol of the connections I have formed with others, the memories I have created, and the joy that comes from sharing something special with loved ones.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to give chicken in honey a chance. Who knows, it may just become a beloved favorite in your own household, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Categories

| Almond Meal Recipes | Almond Recipes | Basil Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Tunisian Meat Dishes | Tunisian Recipes |

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