Easy Boozy One-Pot Italian Chicken Recipe
This boozy one-pot Italian chicken dish is a flavorful, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Packed with savory ingredients and tender chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Infused with the rich taste of dry white wine, port, and brandy, this dish elevates simple chicken drumsticks into a hearty, aromatic feast. The addition of prosciutto, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic brings depth and complexity to every bite.
With minimal prep and just one pot to clean, this easy recipe is an ideal option for those seeking maximum flavor with minimal effort. Serve it with rice or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Boozy One-Pot Italian Chicken Ingredients
Chicken drumsticks form the hearty base, absorbing the rich flavors of the dish. The prosciutto adds a savory, melt-in-your-mouth depth, while the cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness.
Shallots and red bell pepper contribute subtle, aromatic sweetness and color, balancing the intense flavors. Sun-dried tomatoes and peppers provide a tangy, earthy kick that complements the bold wine, port, and brandy sauce.
A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness, while the final touch of lemon zest and parsley brightens the entire meal with a fresh, zesty finish.
Recipe Tips
- Season Generously: One of the keys to bringing out the full flavor of this dish is to season the chicken and vegetables generously with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients and ensure that every bite is packed with taste. Don’t shy away from seasoning, as the wine sauce will balance out the flavors perfectly.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: For juicy, tender chicken, make sure to cook it covered for the first hour to retain moisture. After uncovering, allow the chicken to cook an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. If you find the skin isn’t as crispy as you like, pop the dish under the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end of cooking.
- Wine Substitutions: If you don’t have dry white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. The port and brandy will still add rich depth to the sauce. Experiment with different types of wine to adjust the flavor profile to your liking.
What to Serve with This Recipe
- Rice Pilaf: A simple, buttery rice pilaf works wonderfully alongside this dish. Its light texture soaks up the flavorful sauce from the chicken, allowing each bite to be more satisfying. Add a little fresh herb or lemon zest to the rice for extra brightness.
- Garlic Bread: Serve this dish with a side of crispy garlic bread. The crunchy texture and rich, garlicky flavor of the bread make it the perfect accompaniment to the boozy sauce. It’s ideal for dipping into the flavorful juices left behind in the pan.
- Mixed Green Salad: For a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken, serve with a light mixed green salad. Toss greens like arugula, spinach, or baby kale with a simple vinaigrette. The freshness and slight bitterness of the salad balance the rich, savory flavors of the chicken.
FAQ
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They have more fat and will stay moist and tender, absorbing the flavors of the sauce even better.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. The flavors will intensify as it sits. Just ensure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
3. Can I substitute the brandy and port?
If you prefer to skip the alcohol, substitute with additional dry white wine or use a combination of chicken broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. The wine and brandy add complexity, but this dish will still be delicious without them.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can certainly add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size to ensure even cooking.
Boozy One-Pot Italian Chicken
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 100 g prosciutto torn into strips
- 200 g cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 10 small shallots peeled
- 5 sun-dried tomatoes finely chopped
- 3 tbsp sun-dried peppers cut into strips
- 2 whole garlic cloves
- 150 ml dry white wine
- 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp English mustard
- 2 tbsp port
- 2 tbsp brandy
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1-2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- In a measuring jug, combine the dry white wine, white wine vinegar, mustard, port, and brandy. Set aside.
- Place the chicken drumsticks, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, shallots, bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, sun-dried peppers, and garlic in a large, ovenproof dish with a lid. Season generously with salt and pepper, and toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Pour the prepared wine mixture over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring an even distribution. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.
- Cover the dish and cook for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- After an hour, remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once ready, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and a touch of lemon zest before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or a light salad for a complete meal.
