Lavender Thyme, Raspberry Chicken

Raspberry Chicken Recipe with Mustard and Fruit

Preparation time: 3 hours | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the aromatic flavors of lavender and thyme with the sweetness of raspberries and apricots. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional chicken dishes, incorporating the use of lavender and thyme for a fresh and fragrant flavor profile. The addition of raspberry jam and apricot chunks adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.

Ingredients

4 whole chicken breasts
2 tbsp dijon-style mustard
salt and pepper (optional)
2 tbsp fresh lavender
0.5 cup pineapple chunks or lime thyme
0.5 cup apricot chunks
2 tbsp raspberry jam
0.25 cup dates or prunes
1 cup white wine

How to prepare

Spread mustard evenly over the chicken breasts and sprinkle with the remaining ingredients.
Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 45 minutes.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Be sure to cover the chicken while baking to keep it moist and tender.

- Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken with a side of wild rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh lavender, you can use dried lavender instead.

- Substitute apricot chunks with peach or nectarine chunks for a similar flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh thyme sprigs and a drizzle of raspberry jam for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a light and fruity white wine, such as a Riesling or a Pinot Grigio.

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

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

18g per serving

Fats

6g per serving

Proteins

28g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains mustard and may not be suitable for those with mustard allergies.

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that is sure to impress your guests. With a unique blend of flavors and a beautiful presentation, this dish is perfect for any special occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken. It was a beautiful summer day, and I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the local farmer's market. As I wandered through the stalls filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, my eyes landed on a small stand selling a variety of herbs and spices.

Intrigued by the fragrant lavender and thyme bundles on display, I struck up a conversation with the elderly woman running the stand. She told me stories of how she grew her own herbs in her garden and shared her knowledge of their health benefits and culinary uses. As we chatted, she mentioned a unique recipe she had recently discovered - Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken.

The combination of savory herbs with sweet raspberries piqued my interest, and I begged the woman for the recipe. She smiled and handed me a faded index card with handwritten instructions. I eagerly tucked it into my purse, excited to try out this new culinary adventure.

When I returned home, I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients for the dish. I marinated the chicken in a mixture of lavender, thyme, garlic, and olive oil, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse the meat. As the chicken baked in the oven, I prepared a raspberry sauce using fresh berries, sugar, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.

The scent of lavender and thyme filled my kitchen, transporting me to a tranquil garden in full bloom. When the chicken was golden brown and tender, I drizzled the raspberry sauce over the top, creating a beautiful contrast of colors and flavors.

As I took my first bite of Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken, I was instantly transported back to that sunny day at the farmer's market. The delicate floral notes of the lavender paired perfectly with the earthy thyme, while the sweet-tart raspberries added a burst of freshness to each bite.

I couldn't believe how something so simple could be so incredibly delicious. I made the recipe again and again, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes. I shared it with friends and family, who were equally enchanted by the unique combination of flavors.

Over the years, the recipe for Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I would make it for special occasions and lazy Sunday dinners, always reminiscing about that fateful day at the farmer's market when I first discovered it.

As I grew older and my hands grew weary, I passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, hoping that they too would find joy in creating this magical dish. And now, as I sit in my cozy kitchen surrounded by the laughter of my loved ones, I can't help but feel grateful for that chance encounter with the kind herb vendor who introduced me to the wonders of Lavender Thyme Raspberry Chicken.