The Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken recipe is a culinary adventure, blending the rustic charm of traditional Spanish cooking with the duo’s signature flair for hearty, homey dishes. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a feast for the senses, featuring tender chicken thighs, robust flavors, and a colorful array of vegetables, all simmered together to create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.
Serving 4-6 people, this dish is a fantastic option for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests with your culinary prowess. Allow yourself around 1 to 1.5 hours, and you’ll have a sumptuous meal that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Spain.
Join me as we prepare the Hairy Bikers’ Spanish Chicken recipe. It serves 4-6 people and can be ready in two hours, with straightforward instructions and tips for a delicious dish.
What is Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken?
Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken is a celebrated dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Spanish cuisine. It features juicy chicken thighs, imbued with the flavors of smoky paprika, tangy tomatoes, and spicy chorizo, all cooked together with peppers and onions in a single pan for a simple yet spectacular meal. This dish stands out for its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and the delightful way it melds different textures and tastes into a harmonious meal. It’s a testament to the Hairy Bikers’ ability to create recipes that are accessible, full of flavor, and a joy to share.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of Flavor: The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients creates a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required, making this an ideal recipe for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences and dietary requirements.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to satisfy both children and adults alike.
Ingredients Needed to Make Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken
- Chicken Thighs: 8 bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor.
- Chorizo: 150g, sliced into rounds to add a spicy kick.
- Red and Yellow Peppers: 2 of each, sliced, to bring sweetness and color.
- Red Onion: 1 large, wedged, to add a hint of sharpness.
- Garlic Cloves: 3, finely chopped, for an aromatic base.
- Ripe Tomatoes: 400g can, chopped, for a tangy sauce.
- Dry White Wine: 150ml, to deglaze and enrich the sauce.
- Chicken Stock: 300ml, to bring everything together.
- Paprika: 2 tsp, for that quintessential Spanish smokiness.
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper: For cooking and seasoning.
- Fresh Thyme and Rosemary: A handful, to infuse the dish with herbal notes.
- Black Olives: A handful, pitted, to add a briny contrast.
- Lemon Wedges: For serving, add a zesty finish.
Instructions to Make Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken
To make Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 200°C (400°F, gas mark 6), ensuring it’s ready for roasting.
Cooking Process
- Brown the Chicken: In a large frying pan, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the pan. Cook until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Sauté the Vegetables and Chorizo: In the same pan, add the chorizo slices. Fry until they start to release their oils. Add the onions, peppers, and garlic, sautéing until they begin to soften.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in the paprika for about a minute, then pour in the white wine, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Add the chopped tomatoes and chicken stock, and bring to a simmer.
- Combine and Bake: Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Add the thyme and rosemary sprigs. Transfer the pan to the oven (use a roasting tray if your pan isn’t oven-proof) and bake for 40-45 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Final Touches: Scatter over the black olives and give the dish a final seasoning check. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
What Do I Serve With Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken?
Complementing Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken with the right sides can turn a simple meal into a feast. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Crusty Bread: Essential for savoring every last drop of the rich, flavorful sauce.
- Roasted Potatoes: A classic pairing, their crisp edges, and fluffy centers make them a comforting side.
- Green Salad: A light, crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s hearty flavors.
- Saffron Rice: This subtly flavored rice makes a luxurious bed for the chicken and vegetables, soaking up all the delicious juices.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Select the best chorizo you can find and use chicken thighs for their flavor and juiciness.
- Browning is Key: Properly browning the chicken not only improves its texture but also adds layers of flavor to the dish.
- Herbs for Depth: Fresh thyme and rosemary contribute an aromatic complexity that dried herbs simply can’t match.
- Adjust to Taste: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The right balance of salt and pepper can elevate the dish.
Variations of Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with a robust mix of beans or lentils, and bulk up the vegetables for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
- Add Heat: Introduce chili flakes or a diced hot pepper for those who appreciate a fiery kick.
- Seafood Addition: For a coastal twist, add shrimp or mussels in the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to steam in the aromatic sauce.
How do I Store Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken Leftovers?
- Refrigerate: Cool quickly and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in suitable containers for up to 3 months.
How do I Reheat Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken Leftovers?
- Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 180°C (350°F) until piping hot.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and cover, reheating in short bursts until hot.
Nutritional Value (per serving)
- Calories: 400-600
- Protein: 20-30g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 10-20g
- Fiber: 2-5g
- Sodium: >500mg
FAQs
Can I make Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the chicken and chorizo in a pan first to develop flavor, then transfer them into the slow cooker along with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Remember, slow cookers retain more moisture, so you might want to reduce the liquid slightly or thicken the sauce at the end with a cornstarch slurry.
Is it possible to use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?
While chicken thighs are preferred for their flavor and tenderness, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Keep in mind that chicken breasts cook faster and can become dry if overcooked. To avoid this, consider cutting the breasts into larger chunks and reduce the cooking time in the oven by about 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to add more heat to the Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken, there are a few ways to do so. Increase the amount of chorizo, as it typically contains spicy paprika. You can also add a teaspoon or more of hot smoked paprika or include fresh or dried chili peppers when sautéing the vegetables. Adjust these additions according to your heat preference.
What are some low-carb alternatives to serve with Hairy Bikers Spanish Chicken?
For a low-carb option, consider serving the dish with a side of cauliflower rice, steamed green beans, or a mixed leafy green salad with a vinaigrette dressing. These sides will complement the rich flavors of the dish without adding many carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb diet.
Final Words
The Hairy Bikers’ Spanish Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that bring a piece of Spain into your home kitchen. With this step-by-step guide, you’re well-equipped to recreate this delectable dish, promising a culinary adventure that’s sure to impress. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing good food. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, the delicious results!