Written By Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes that leave your taste buds feeling unexcited? Look no further than this recipe for almond and barberry chicken, which will add a delightful crunch and tangy sweetness to your meal.
This recipe, inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, comes from chef and cookbook author Yotam Ottolenghi. The dish is made with boneless chicken thighs, which are marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a variety of spices, including sumac, cumin, and paprika. The chicken is then coated in a mixture of ground almonds and breadcrumbs, which gives it a satisfying crunch when baked in the oven.
But what really sets this dish apart is the addition of barberries, a small, tart fruit that is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. The barberries are sautéed in butter until slightly caramelized and then added to the chicken, creating a burst of sweet and sour flavor in every bite.
To make this dish, start by marinating the chicken in the yogurt and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes (although overnight is even better). While the chicken is marinating, toast the almonds in a dry pan until lightly browned and fragrant. Combine the toasted almonds with breadcrumbs and set aside.
Next, sauté the barberries in butter until slightly caramelized and set aside. Then, remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece in the almond and breadcrumb mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.
Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Once the chicken is cooked, top it with the caramelized barberries and serve with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it is high in protein and healthy fats from the chicken and almonds. Barberries are also packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making them a great addition to any meal.
So why settle for a boring chicken dinner when you can add some excitement with this almond and barberry chicken recipe? Give it a try and impress your taste buds (and your guests) with this flavorful twist on a classic dish.
