If you're looking for an easy yet exciting chicken recipe, this Tomato and Chorizo Chicken dish is a must-try. Combining the rich flavors of French cooking with the spicy kick of Spanish chorizo, this recipe offers a unique twist on classic chicken dishes. Perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals, it's packed with flavor and simple to make.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This recipe brings together the best of two culinary worlds. The smoky paprika and chorizo add depth and heat, while the tomatoes and Madera wine create a rich, balanced sauce. It’s a perfect example of how traditional French techniques can be elevated with bold Spanish ingredients.
Key Ingredients
- Diced onion
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic
- Spinach (optional)
- Thickly sliced chorizo
- Whole chicken or chicken thighs
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Canned whole peeled tomatoes
- Madera wine (or white wine as an alternative)
- Bay leaves
How To Make Tomato Chicken And Chorizo
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onions, slicing the garlic, and chopping the tomatoes. Remove the stems from the canned tomatoes and, optionally, remove the seeds for a smoother texture. Prepare the chicken by seasoning it with salt and pepper, then lightly coating it in a mixture of flour and smoked paprika for a crispy finish.
2. Browning the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). In a cast-iron pot or casserole dish, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides, focusing on drumsticks and wings first, as they take longer to cook. Reserve the chicken once browned.
3. Building the Sauce
Using the same pot, sauté the onions until softened. Add garlic, bay leaves, and chorizo, cooking until fragrant. Deglaze the pot with Madera wine to lift the caramelized bits from the bottom, creating a rich base for the sauce.
4. Combining and Baking
Return the chicken to the pot, nestling it into the sauce. If needed, add a little water to ensure the liquid reaches halfway up the chicken. Cover and bake for 30–45 minutes. Add the chicken breasts during the last 15 minutes of baking to keep them moist.
5. Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and brightness.
Tips for Success
- Use canned tomatoes when fresh ones aren’t in season for consistent flavor.
- Don’t skip deglazing the pot—this step captures all the delicious browned bits.
- Adjust the amount of chorizo based on your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, use Madera wine instead of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Conclusion
This Tomato and Chorizo Chicken recipe is a celebration of cross-cultural cuisine, blending French technique with Spanish flair. Whether you're hosting guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out and bring a taste of the borderlands to your table.
