Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 6-8 chicken drumsticks
- 1 to 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, ends trimmed and cut in half
- 2 yellow onions, sliced
Spices and Sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil (plus more to top)
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 1/2 tbsp date syrup
- 1 1/2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cumin
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: Heat a braiser or oven-safe skillet on medium heat with 1/4 cup olive oil. Using a pan of at least 3.5 quarts, sauté the sliced onions for 7-8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Brown Chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the pan with a pinch of salt. Brown them together with the onions for another 7-8 minutes to develop rich color and flavor.
- Add Spices and Oil: Sprinkle in 1 1/2 tablespoons paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Add an additional 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss everything thoroughly to coat the chicken and onions evenly with the spices.
- Add Green Beans and Liquids: Stir in the green beans, then pour in the tomato sauce and water. Mix well, cover the pan, and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
- Preheat Oven: While the chicken simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Finish in Oven: After 1 hour, remove the lid from the skillet. Drizzle the 1 1/2 tablespoons of date syrup evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Transfer the uncovered pan to the preheated oven and bake for another 40-45 minutes to caramelize the dish and concentrate the flavors.
Notes
- Use a large braiser or oven-safe skillet to accommodate all ingredients and ensure even cooking.
- Trimming and halving green beans helps them cook evenly and absorb flavors better.
- Date syrup adds a natural sweetness that balances the spices; you can substitute with honey or maple syrup if unavailable.
- Ensure the oven-safe pan is appropriate for direct oven use to avoid damage.
- Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean