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Pomegranate Chicken

A delightful dish combining tender chicken, tangy pomegranate molasses, and aromatic spices, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade
  • 2 lbs bone-in chicken pieces Juicy and flavorful, perfect for soaking up sauces.
  • 1 tsp ground cardamom Adds a warm, aromatic note.
  • 1 tbsp sumac Provides tangy and citrusy flavor.
  • 2 tsp salt (divided) Enhances flavors.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Rich and helps sear the chicken.
  • 1/8 tsp red pepper flakes Adds a hint of heat.
Sauce and Garnish
  • 1 cup pomegranate molasses The star ingredient for depth and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup chicken stock Adds moisture and flavor.
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme (tied) Infuses the dish with herbal aromas.
  • Pomegranate seeds (arils) Adds color and fresh flavor.
  • Fresh chives (chopped fine) Adds a mild onion flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix the ground cardamom, sumac, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Rub the spice mixture under the skin of each chicken piece and sprinkle the remaining salt on top.
Cooking
  1. Heat a cast-iron pan or skillet over high heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Sear the chicken skin-side down for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
  3. Remove chicken from the pan, lower the heat, and add red pepper flakes, pomegranate molasses, thyme bundle, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil and reduce by half.
  4. Return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the sauce, and roast in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  5. Drizzle the reduced pomegranate sauce over the cooked chicken, then sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds and chives.

Notes

For chicken variations, you can use skinless, boneless pieces or substitute with eggplant or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Marinating the chicken for extra flavor is also recommended.