chicken in sparkling wine

chicken in sparkling wine

Serves 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12 - 15 minutes

2 deboned chicken legs and thighs or 2 large chicken breasts
2  tablespoons flour
1/4 cup olive oil
About 1 1/2 cups very fruity sparkling wine (Spanish cava, asti, blanquette de Limoux, or any other sparkling wine from southern France)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Hot pimentón (smoked Spanish paprika)

Cut chicken into 1/2-inch slices and then into pieces.  Season with salt and pepper.  Place flour in a sturdy plastic zip-top bag, add chicken, close the bag, and shake well.  Remove chicken pieces from bag and shake free from excess flour.

Immediately heat olive oil in a large sauté pan and brown chicken on all sides.  Add sparkling wine, then lemon juice; reduce heat and stir gently.

Season with a little salt, pepper and pimentón.  Cover and simmer for 12 - 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.  If the sauce evaporates or becomes too thick, add a little wine.  Adjust seasonings to taste.  Make sure chicken is cooked through.

Serve as part of a meal of tapas, accompanied by steamed potatoes if desired.