Aretha Franklin is not only one of the greatest singers of all time but also an amazing cook. The Queen of Soul was known for her delicious and innovative recipes, and her chicken italiano recipe was no exception. This recipe has become popular over the years, and many fans attempt to recreate it in their own kitchens. In this article, we will explore what Aretha Franklin's chicken italiano recipe is all about.
The Inspiration behind Aretha Franklin's Chicken Italiano Recipe
Aretha Franklin's chicken italiano recipe is an Italian-inspired dish that was inspired by her love for Italian cuisine. She was known for her love of delicious food and her passion for cooking, and this recipe was one of her favorites. The recipe includes a mix of ingredients that are commonly used in Italian cuisine, such as tomatoes, basil, and garlic.
Ingredients in Aretha Franklin's Chicken Italiano Recipe
The ingredients in Aretha Franklin's chicken italiano recipe are simple yet flavorful. The key ingredients in this recipe include:
Chicken breast
The chicken breast is the main source of protein in this recipe. Aretha Franklin preferred to use organic and antibiotic-free chicken.
Bell pepper
The bell pepper provides a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. Aretha Franklin used green or red bell peppers, depending on her preference.
Tomatoes
The tomatoes add a rich flavor to the dish and are an essential ingredient in Italian cuisine. Aretha Franklin used fresh, ripe tomatoes in her recipe.
Basil
The basil adds a fresh and fragrant flavor to the dish. Aretha Franklin used fresh basil leaves and chopped them finely before adding them to the dish.
Garlic
The garlic provides a strong and distinct flavor to the dish. Aretha Franklin used fresh garlic cloves and chopped them finely.
How to Cook Aretha Franklin's Chicken Italiano Recipe
Aretha Franklin's chicken italiano recipe is easy to follow and can be made in under an hour. The steps to prepare this dish are as follows:
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Wash and pat dry the chicken breast. Cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. Chop the bell peppers and tomatoes into small pieces. Finely chop the garlic, and chop the basil leaves.
Step 2: Cook the chicken
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook them until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped bell peppers and garlic, and cook them for a few minutes until they are tender. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook them until they are soft.
Step 4: Add the seasonings
Add the chopped basil leaves to the skillet, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
Step 5: Combine the chicken and vegetables
Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix it with the vegetables. Cover the skillet and let it cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 6: Serve the dish
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from heat, and serve the dish immediately. You can serve it with rice, pasta, or a side salad.
Conclusion
Aretha Franklin's chicken italiano recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that everyone should try at least once. The recipe is easy to follow, and the ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets. This dish is perfect for those who love Italian cuisine and those who are looking for a simple yet tasty meal. You may not be able to taste it in Aretha Franklin's kitchen, but you can recreate her famous dish in your own home.
Valuable Tips for Making Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano Recipe
Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe is one of the most popular and sought-after Italian dishes. It is known for its delicious blend of flavors and an unforgettable aroma. However, making this dish can be quite challenging. It requires the right ingredients, techniques, and attention to detail. Here are some valuable tips to help you make Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe like a pro.
Choose the Right Chicken
The first step in making Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe is to choose the right chicken. You should use chicken breasts that are boneless and skinless. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and that it does not become too dry. It is also important to select chicken breasts that are of high quality. Avoid chicken that has been frozen for an extended period or processed with preservatives.
Use Fresh Herbs and Spices
Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe calls for a variety of herbs and spices, including garlic, oregano, basil, and thyme. You should always use fresh herbs and spices as these will provide the most flavor. Dried herbs and spices lose their flavor over time and may not give the same intensity of flavor as fresh ones. You can plant your herbs or get them from your local grocery store.
Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is an essential step in making Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe. The marinade adds flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken. The recipe calls for a marinade made of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and basil. You should marinate the chicken for at least two hours, but overnight is best.
Do Not Overcook the Chicken
Overcooking the chicken is a common mistake when making Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, adversely affecting the flavor of the dish. You should cook the chicken breasts for about seven minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Properly Cook the Pasta
Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe is served with linguine, which should be cooked to perfection. Overcooked or undercooked pasta can ruin the entire dish. Follow the instructions on the pasta package carefully and use enough water to cook the pasta. You should also stir the pasta often to prevent it from sticking. When the pasta is cooked, drain it and toss it with some olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
Choose High-Quality Parmesan Cheese
Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe calls for grated Parmesan cheese. Parmesan cheese is known for its unique flavor and texture. You should always use fresh, high-quality Parmesan cheese when making this dish. Grate the cheese just before serving to ensure maximum flavor.
Plate the Dish Properly
Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe should be plated correctly to enhance its visual appeal. You can start by placing the pasta on the plate, followed by the chicken. Top the chicken with the sauce and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Garnish the dish with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil.
Adjust the Recipe to Suit Your Preferences
Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe is a classic Italian dish, but you can make some adjustments to suit your preferences. For example, you can add more garlic or spice to the marinade to give the dish more intensity. You can also play with the ingredients, such as adding some vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, to make the dish more nutritious.
Conclusion
Making Aretha Franklin’s Chicken Italiano recipe requires patience, attention to detail, and the right ingredients. By following these valuable tips, you can make this dish like a pro. Remember to choose the right chicken, use fresh herbs and spices, marinate the meat, cook the pasta correctly, use high-quality Parmesan cheese, plate the dish well, and adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. With these tips, you can make a delicious Italian dish that will leave your family and friends wanting more.
