Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsZAZA Italian GastrobarSpicy Braised Chicken Recipe

Spicy Braised Chicken Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Spicy cherry peppers over home-made polenta.

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Ingredients

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Spicy Braised Chicken

Home-Made Polenta

Method

Spicy Braised Chicken

  1. 1

    Prepare the Chicken

    Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper on both sides.

  2. 2

    Sear the Chicken

    In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

  3. 3

    Sauté Garlic and Peppers

    In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cherry peppers and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

  4. 4

    Add Liquids

    Pour in the chicken broth and red wine vinegar, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits.

  5. 5

    Braise the Chicken

    Return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cover and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

  6. 6

    Finish with Parsley

    Before serving, stir in chopped fresh parsley to the braised chicken.

Home-Made Polenta

  1. 7

    Boil Water

    In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 tsp of salt.

  2. 8

    Add Polenta

    Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

  3. 9

    Cook Polenta

    Reduce heat to low and cook the polenta for about 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened and creamy.

  4. 10

    Add Butter and Cheese

    Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbs of butter and 1 cup of parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.

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