Nina:
I would never have thought to pair chicken and grapes, but I'm delighted to say it works, and it is superb! A new dinner party favorite to be sure.
This elegant yet approachable meal brings together the rich, savory notes of perfectly seared organic chicken and the natural sweetness of oven-roasted grapes. Ideal for special occasions or for elevating a regular weeknight, this recipe creates a visually stunning centerpiece for your table. The grapes’ juices blend with the pan drippings to create a luscious, fruity sauce that is both unique and irresistible.
Dating back to Roman times, the pairing of poultry and grapes has a long tradition, symbolizing abundance and celebration. Our recipe updates this classic combination, delivering modern flavors and easy techniques perfect for contemporary kitchens.
Whether you prefer juicy chicken thighs, lean chicken breasts, or a medley of both, this recipe adapts effortlessly to your preferences. Every bite is infused with the aromatic essence of the grapes, transforming everyday chicken into an unforgettable dish.
IngredientsTry it with...
Preparation
for 4 servings
Step
1
Of 3
Begin by cutting a whole organic chicken into 8 even pieces (or request this from your butcher; if you’re shopping at a grocery store, look for a pre-divided bird in 8 parts).
Heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or stew pot. Scatter in thinly sliced onions and sauté gently until they become tender and translucent, but don’t let them brown. Increase the heat to medium and add your chicken pieces, ensuring each one gets a golden, even sear on all sides. This crucial step locks in juices and starts building flavor for your sauce.
Step
2
Of 3
Pour in a splash of robust red wine and turn up the heat briefly to let the alcohol evaporate, infusing the chicken with deep flavor. Reduce the heat to medium. If you notice the chicken starting to stick, add a ladle of hot chicken broth or water to keep everything moist and prevent burning. Let the chicken cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
Step
3
Of 3
Choose a handful of small, intensely flavored grapes—classic wine grapes like Concord or Muscat are ideal, but any sweet, seedless variety will do. Add the grapes directly to the pot, nestling them among the chicken pieces and onions. Continue to cook over medium heat for roughly 1 hour, until the chicken is completely tender and the sauce has thickened to a glossy, aromatic finish.
For serving, plate each portion of chicken with a generous spoonful of the grape-studded sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with sharp, salty aged Pecorino cheese and a fresh salad of mixed greens, balancing the sweet and savory elements perfectly on your plate.
Try it with...
Filippo Bartolotta
...Great Italian Goodies!
Nina Wednesday 15th of April 2020
Grapes and chicken: who knew?!
I would never have thought to pair chicken and grapes, but I'm delighted to say it works, and it is superb! A new dinner party favorite to be sure.