Beer chicken: the infallible recipe to impress your guests

Beer chicken is a culinary option that combines the best of two worlds: the succulence and tenderness of chicken with the rich flavor and aroma that beer brings to the preparation. This recipe is a true delight that will delight your guests and your palate.

Know the history of the dish

Establishing the origin of beer chicken is somewhat complicated, since it has evolved over time and has been adapted by different culinary cultures. However, this recipe is believed to have its roots in European cuisine, particularly in countries such as Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic, where beer is a commonly used ingredient in cooking.

The combination of chicken and beer is a fusion of flavors that seems to have made sense for a long time. Beer, with its unique flavor profile that can be bitter, sweet or even spicy, adds an extra dimension to chicken preparation, whether through its aroma, its flavor or its ability to tenderize and flavor the meat.

As the recipe has spread to different regions of the world, each culture has put its own distinctive spin on it. Some versions may include additional ingredients such as onions, carrots, potatoes, or local spices, adding even more variety and complexity to the dish.

And now that you know a little about the origin and history of the dish, discover the recipe and dare to add your personal touch. You won't need to be an expert chef to prepare this dish, just follow these simple steps and surprise your guests with an irresistible delicacy!

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, preferably medium size
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 can of beer (preferably a lager or ale)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step recipe:

Step 1: Preparation of the Chicken

• Wash the chicken under cold water and dry it with kitchen paper.
• Season the chicken with salt and pepper, both inside and out, according to your personal taste.
• *If you want to add a different and personal touch, you can add different fresh or dried herbs such as thyme, oregano or parsley, to give more depth to the dish. And if you want to give it a touch of heat and complexity, you can add smoked paprika or curry powder. In addition, a special touch that we really like is to add a touch of citrus by squeezing a little lemon, orange or lime juice over the chicken before cooking it, thus giving it freshness and an acidity that balances the flavors of the beer and the vegetables. .

Step 2: Sautéed Vegetables

• In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and carrots and sauté until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
• Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
• *On the other hand, in addition to onion and carrots, you can add other vegetables such as peppers, mushrooms, zucchini or even potatoes to add more texture and flavor to the dish.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

• Once the vegetables are well sautéed, remove them from the pan and set aside.
• In the same skillet and pot, place the whole chicken and brown it on all sides, for approximately 5 minutes per side.
• Once the chicken is browned, add the sautéed vegetables back to the pan around the chicken.
• Pour the beer can over the chicken and vegetables. Add the bay leaves and the sprig of fresh rosemary. A detail that seems very original to us is to add a little honey or brown sugar to the sauce to caramelize and enhance the flavors, giving them a touch of sweetness; or even a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a slightly spicy flavor and texture.
• Cover the skillet or pot and cook over medium-low heat for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Make sure the beer has reduced and turned into a delicious sauce.

Step 4: Serve

• Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting it into portions.
• Serve the hot beer chicken, accompanied by the delicious beer and vegetable sauce.
• You can accompany this dish with white rice, mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, depending on your preference.

And that's it! With these simple steps, you will have an exquisite beer chicken that will surely become one of your favorite dishes. And remember, the plating is almost 50% of the dish, take time to carefully place the beer chicken on the plate, accompanied by the tasty beer sauce and vegetables, creating a visually attractive composition. You can add a final touch with a little chopped parsley or a slice of lemon can further enhance the presentation, inviting your guests to enjoy each bite with all their senses. The care in plating guarantees a complete and unforgettable gastronomic experience.

So, now you have the chicken prepared like a real chef and the plate decorated like in a luxury restaurant. Enjoy this culinary delight and surprise your guests with your talent in the kitchen!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BEER CHICKEN

What kind of beer should I use to make beer chicken?

You can use a variety of beers, from lagers to ales, depending on your flavor preference. Darker beers can add a more robust flavor, while lighter beers can offer a smoother flavor profile. Experiment with different types to find the one you like best.

Can I make non-alcoholic beer chicken?

Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of beer chicken using chicken or vegetable broth instead of beer. This will still give the dish a delicious, rich flavor.

What accompaniments go well with beer chicken?

Beer chicken goes well with a variety of sides, such as white rice, mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious beer sauce.

How long can I keep beer chicken in the refrigerator?

You can store the beer chicken in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Be sure to refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking to ensure freshness and food safety.