Chicken Stifado with Onions and Cinnamon
This Chicken Stifado recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional Greek stew, featuring tender chicken thighs, a rich tomato-based sauce, and an aromatic blend of cinnamon and onions.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- 1 bay leaf
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup red wine
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pot until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and bay leaf to the onions. Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, red wine vinegar, and red wine. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is done, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with a side of roasted potatoes or over a bed of cooked rice.
Notes
For a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste during step 3.
If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but adjust cooking time accordingly as they may cook faster.
Traditional Stifado often includes small shallots; you may substitute some of the onions with shallots for a more authentic touch.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better as the flavors meld.