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Forgotten Chicken

Forgotten Chicken
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Forgotten Chicken is a comforting and nostalgic dish featuring bone-in chicken pieces slow-cooked with fragrant herbs, smoky spices, and a bright touch of lemon. This easy-to-make recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a richly flavored, tender meal that warms the heart and pleases the palate. Perfect for weeknights or special gatherings, its versatility allows for creative variations to suit any preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4–6 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Spices & Herbs

  • 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary or thyme

Fats & Liquids

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy sear. Season generously with salt and pepper to build a solid flavor base.
  2. Sear for Golden Crust: Heat olive oil or butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, locking in juices and enhancing aroma.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: Remove the chicken and add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic to the same pan. Cook over medium heat until the onions become translucent and begin to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness.
  4. Build Flavor with Spices: Sprinkle smoked paprika and fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme) over the onions and garlic. Stir gently for about a minute to toast the spices and intensify their flavors.
  5. Simmer with Broth: Return the chicken to the pan and pour in enough chicken broth to come halfway up the chicken pieces. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover partially, and cook for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  6. Finish with a Lemon Zest: Just before serving, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and stir gently to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the dish.

Notes

  • Patting chicken dry before searing ensures a crispy skin.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning instead of steaming.
  • Use fresh herbs for more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
  • Maintain a medium-low simmer to keep chicken moist and tender.
  • Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers for longer storage.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or oven covered with foil to retain moisture; avoid microwave reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: forgotten chicken, slow cooked chicken, comfort food, nostalgic recipe, bone-in chicken, smoked paprika chicken

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/forgotten-chicken/