Saucy Romesco Chicken with Sautéed Potatoes

Imagine a dish that combines the smoky, nutty flavors of Romesco sauce with tender, juicy chicken and crispy sautéed potatoes. Sounds delicious, right? This Saucy Romesco Chicken with Sautéed Potatoes is a perfect blend of Spanish culinary tradition and comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Romesco Sauce:

• 2 roasted red bell peppers
• 1/2 cup toasted almonds
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the Romesco Sauce

1. Roast the Peppers: Start by roasting the red bell peppers until the skin is charred. Let them cool, then peel off the skin and remove the seeds.
2. Blend the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the roasted peppers, toasted almonds, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth.
3. Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a bit more olive oil if needed.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, let the sauce sit for a few hours before using it.

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Marinating the Chicken

1. Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl and coat them with half of the Romesco sauce. Make sure each piece is well-covered.
2. Marinate: Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown.
3. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Preparing the Sautéed Potatoes

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, boil the halved baby potatoes until just tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
2. Sauté: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the potatoes and sauté until crispy and golden brown.
3. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining the Dish

1. Plate the Chicken: Place the cooked chicken breasts on a serving platter.
2. Add the Potatoes: Arrange the sautéed potatoes around the chicken.
3. Drizzle with Sauce: Drizzle the remaining Romesco sauce over the chicken and potatoes.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For beverages, consider a crisp white wine or a light, fruity red wine to complement the smoky flavors of the Romesco sauce.

Nutritional Information

This meal is not only delicious but also nutritious. The Romesco sauce is rich in healthy fats from the almonds and olive oil, while the chicken provides lean protein. The potatoes add a good source of carbohydrates and fiber.

Variations and Substitutions

• Alternative Ingredients: If you don’t have red bell peppers, you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Different Meats: This recipe works well with pork chops or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.

Tips for Leftovers

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in a skillet over medium heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Romesco sauce made of? Romesco sauce is a Spanish sauce made from roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, often seasoned with smoked paprika.
2. Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork chops, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
3. How long does Romesco sauce last? Romesco sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.
4. What can I serve with Romesco chicken? This dish pairs well with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice.
5. Is this dish healthy? Yes, this dish is healthy as it includes lean protein, healthy fats, and nutritious vegetables.

Conclusion

Saucy Romesco Chicken with Sautéed Potatoes is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Spanish cuisine with the comfort of a home-cooked meal. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Give it a try and enjoy the burst of flavors!