Transport your taste buds to the vibrant culinary landscape of Georgia with this delectable dish of Bazhe Chicken. Tender chicken pieces are enveloped in a rich, creamy walnut sauce, boasting a harmonious blend of flavors from garlic, coriander, and aromatic spices. Served hot and garnished with fresh herbs, this traditional Georgian delight promises a delightful journey through the rich gastronomic heritage of the Caucasus region.

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces or 4-6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the walnut sauce:

• 1 cup walnuts, shelled
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground fenugreek (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground marigold (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground blue fenugreek (utskho suneli) (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground dried red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1- Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and black pepper.

2- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

4- Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the shelled walnuts to the skillet. Toast them lightly, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

5- Transfer the toasted walnuts, onion, and garlic mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the ground coriander, fenugreek, marigold, blue fenugreek (if using), red pepper flakes, and chicken or vegetable broth. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

6- Return the blended sauce to the skillet or Dutch oven. Place the browned chicken pieces back into the skillet, coating them evenly with the walnut sauce.

7- Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer in the sauce over low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

8- Once the chicken is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.

9- Serve the Bazhe Chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Georgian Walnut Chicken in Walnut Sauce!

Nutritional Values :

Chicken Thighs (per 100g):

• Calories: 209 kcal
• Protein: 26.7g
• Fat: 11.2g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits

• Rich source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains important nutrients like selenium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which support overall health.

Walnuts (per 100g):

• Calories: 654 kcal
• Protein: 15.2g
• Fat: 65.2g
• Carbohydrates: 13.7g
• Fiber: 6.7g
• Sugars: 2.6g

benefits

• Excellent source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
• High in antioxidants, such as vitamin E and polyphenols, which help protect cells from damage.
• May help reduce inflammation and support brain health due to their omega-3 content.

Onion (per 100g):

• Calories: 40 kcal
• Protein: 1.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 9.3g
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Sugars: 4.7g

benefits

• Contains antioxidants like quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
• Good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
• Provides fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.

Garlic (per 100g):

• Calories: 149 kcal
• Protein: 6.4g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 33.1g
• Fiber: 2.1g
• Sugars: 1g

benefits

• Contains compounds like allicin, which have antibacterial and antiviral properties, supporting immune function.
• May help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
• Contains antioxidants that help protect against cell damage and aging.

Vegetable Oil (per tablespoon - approximately 14g):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits

• Provides essential fatty acids, such as omega-6, which are important for cell function and hormone production.
• Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Can help improve absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E, and K.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the specific type and brand of ingredients used, cooking methods, and portion sizes.