Martik's Chicken Chakhokhbili Recipe

Summary

Martik shares her simple yet delicious version of Chicken Chakhokhbili, a popular Georgian dish. She demonstrates the step-by-step process, from searing the chicken to simmering it in a flavorful sauce made with lots of onions, tomatoes, peppers, spices, and fresh herbs.

Highlights

Searing the Chicken00:00:12

Martik heats oil in a pan and sears chicken pieces (legs, thighs, and fillets) until golden brown on both sides. She explains that this step doesn't fully cook the chicken but adds flavor and texture.

Preparing the Sauce Base00:01:49

She sautes chopped onions in the same pan until translucent. Then, she adds a mixture of spices (paprika, khmeli suneli, dry garlic, black pepper, and a bit of hot pepper.) She allows the spices to bloom briefly in the hot oil.

Adding Vegetables and Simmering00:02:43

She incorporates chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, and a bit of tomato paste into the pan. After mixing, she covers the pan and simmers the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes release their juices.

Adding Herbs and Returning the Chicken00:04:05

She seasons the sauce with salt to taste, adds a generous amount of chopped cilantro and parsley, and simmers to infuse the sauce with the herb flavors.

Combining Chicken and Sauce00:04:55

Martik removes a portion of the sauce aside. She places the seared chicken back into the pan and pours reserved sauce over each piece. It is covered and simmered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Final Touches and Serving00:09:13

Right before serving, more fresh cilantro is added. Martik emphasizes that the chicken should be very tender and fall-apart. Served with bread, the flavorful sauce makes the dish.