Chicken and Garlic Stew

Chicken with Forty Cloves of Garlic is a now-classic braised dish that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite for its comforting flavors and tender chicken. Originating in the United States back in the 1960s, this dish was once considered radical due to the generous use of garlic cloves, but it has since become a beloved and familiar preparation. The dish features soft, mild-flavored garlic that becomes wonderfully spreadable when cooked, making it a delightful addition to good bread. A unique aspect of this recipe is that you don’t need to peel the garlic cloves; their skins help keep them intact during cooking and can easily be removed at the table with a knife, fork, or fingers.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: About 11/4 hours, largely unattended

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 whole chicken, 3 to 4 pounds, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 8 pieces, or any combination of parts
• At least 2 heads of garlic, separated into cloves but not peeled
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup dry white wine, chicken, meat, or vegetable stock, or water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a deep skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, skin side down, and brown them well by rotating and turning the pieces as needed. This browning process will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes. (Note: If you prefer, you can skip this step and use only 1 tablespoon of oil).
2. Once the chicken is nicely browned, add the separated garlic cloves, chopped parsley, ground cinnamon or allspice, and season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Pour the dry white wine, chicken, meat, or vegetable stock (or water) over the chicken and garlic mixture. Bring the liquid to a boil, then adjust the heat so that the mixture bubbles gently but steadily.
4. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and allow the chicken and garlic to cook undisturbed for about an hour, or until they become very tender. The flavors will meld together beautifully during this braising process.
5. Once the chicken and garlic are tender, you can transfer them to a deep platter. Garnish the dish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. To enjoy the softened garlic, spread the cloves onto good crusty bread, creating a delightful accompaniment to the tender chicken.

Chicken with Forty Cloves of Garlic is a timeless dish that has evolved from being a revolutionary concept to a beloved classic. The combination of tender chicken, soft garlic cloves, and aromatic spices creates a harmonious and comforting dish. It’s a perfect choice for a hearty and satisfying meal, and the softened garlic cloves spread on crusty bread make for a delightful treat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and delightful flavors. Enjoy the warmth and depth of Chicken with Forty Cloves of Garlic as you savor each bite of this beloved culinary gem.