Delicious and Authentic Chicken Vesuvio Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces of bone-in chicken (preferably thighs or breasts)
  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 5 cloves of garlic, peeled
  • 1 cup of dry white wine
  • 1.5 pounds of russet potatoes, cut into wedges
  • 1 cup of frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup of chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the garlic and potatoes. Cook until the potatoes are golden brown, about 10 minutes.
  5. Add the wine to the skillet, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  6. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the potatoes. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, about 25 minutes.
  7. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the peas. Let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the peas to warm through.
  8. Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tools for making

  • Skillet - A large ovenproof skillet will be needed to cook the chicken and potatoes.
  • Oven - You will need an oven to roast the chicken and potatoes.
  • Tongs - Tongs will be useful for flipping and handling the chicken pieces.
  • Spatula - A spatula will help in stirring and flipping the potatoes in the skillet.
  • Knife - A knife will be needed to cut the potatoes into wedges.
  • Cutting board - You will need a cutting board to safely cut the potatoes.

Recipe variations

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken pieces.
  • Replace the white wine with dry red wine for a richer flavor.
  • Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the garlic and potatoes.
  • Try using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a twist.
  • For a meat-free option, substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan.
  • Add roasted red bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as paprika, cumin, or basil.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors.
  • For a crispy crust, coat the chicken pieces in breadcrumbs before cooking.
  • Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Recipe overview

Get ready to transport your tastebuds to Italy with this deliciously hearty Chicken Vesuvio recipe. This classic Italian-American dish, originating from Chicago, promises a flavorful fusion of tender chicken and golden brown potatoes roasted in a rich blend of garlic, herbs, white wine, and chicken broth. The addition of peas lends a touch of freshness to balance out the dish. It is surprisingly simple to prepare, yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Expect a meal that's comforting, satisfying, and brimming with Mediterranean flavors. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation that's sure to impress. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. However, bone-in chicken is preferred as it adds more flavor to the dish.
  2. Can I substitute the dry white wine?
    If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
  3. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
    Yes, you can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs. Keep in mind that the measurements may vary, so you may need to increase the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs.
  4. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
    Absolutely! While the traditional Chicken Vesuvio recipe includes potatoes and peas, you can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking.
  5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
    The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
  6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Skillet - A large ovenproof skillet is needed to cook the chicken and potatoes.
  • Knife - A sharp knife is essential for cutting the potatoes into wedges and any other required prep work.
  • Cutting Board - A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping ingredients.
  • Oven - A standard oven is required to roast the chicken and potatoes.
  • Spatula - A spatula or turner is helpful for flipping and transferring the chicken pieces.
  • Tongs - Tongs can be used to handle the hot chicken and potatoes during cooking.
  • Measuring Cup - A measuring cup is needed to accurately measure the wine, broth, and other liquids.
  • Garlic Press - A garlic press can be used to easily crush the garlic cloves.
  • Oven Mitts - Oven mitts or pot holders are necessary to protect your hands when handling hot cookware.

Origin stories

Chicken Vesuvio is a culinary creation said to have originated in the heart of Chicago, in the Italian-American communities that thrived there in the mid-20th century. It's nicknamed "Chicago's Chicken," an emblem of the city's rich immigrant history. Named after Italy's Mount Vesuvius, known for its explosive eruption in 79 AD, Chicken Vesuvio packs a flavor just as robust and memorable. Its signature ingredients of garlic, olive oil, white wine, and oregano blend together to create a delectable aroma that fills the streets of Chicago's Little Italy to this day. Despite its Chicagoan roots, the dish is a testament to the Italian-American immigrants' ability to blend the flavors of their homeland with the ingredients available in their new home, creating dishes that became classics in their own right.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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