Name: Delicious Chicken with Lavender Recipe for Dinner
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (lavender buff orpingtons or lavender orpingtons chickens are ideal); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds (culinary-grade); 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves; 1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Juice of 1 lemon; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried lavender buds; 1 sharp knife; 1 cutting board; 1 big skillet or baking dish; 1 meat thermometer; 1 small bowl

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I love cooking at home and the amazing smells and tastes it brings. Tonight, let's explore a special dish: chicken with lavender. It's perfect for anyone who loves to cook, whether you're experienced or just starting out.

This recipe will take you to the French countryside with its juicy chicken and lavender. We'll learn about lavender's health benefits and the best types to use. You'll also find out what ingredients and tools you need to make this dish.

Inspired by the simplicity and richness of French cuisine, this recipe is reminiscent of the comforting, slow-cooked meals featured in Chicken Pasta in Crockpot. It’s a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire, sure to become a family favorite.

So, let's get cooking! We'll make a dish that will make your taste buds happy. Chicken and lavender together create a delicious meal that will make your dinner special.

The Magic of Lavender in Culinary Creations

Lavender is a fragrant herb known for its aroma and soothing effects. It's often overlooked in cooking. Yet, it can transform simple dishes into something special.

Culinary Lavender vs. Ornamental Varieties

Not all lavender is good for cooking. Ornamental types like lavender orpingtons chickens and lavender ameraucana are beautiful but not always tasty. Culinary lavender, however, is grown for its unique flavor and scent.

Best Lavender Species for Cooking

Some lavender types are better for cooking than others. English lavender is sweet and mild, great for both savory and sweet dishes. French lavender has a stronger, herbaceous taste. Hidcote lavender has a deep, captivating aroma.

Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools for Chicken with Lavender

Making a chicken dish with lavender is all about choosing the right ingredients and tools. As a home chef, I've found what you need for a great dish.

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (lavender buff orpingtons or lavender orpingtons chickens are ideal)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon dried lavender buds (culinary-grade)
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped
1 teaspoon lemon zest

For the Marinade:

Juice of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried lavender buds

Kitchen Equipment:

1 sharp knife
1 cutting board
1 big skillet or baking dish
1 meat thermometer
1 small bowl

With these ingredients and tools, you're set to make a chicken dish that's both delicious and fragrant. It's all about the magic of lavender and tender chicken.

Perfect Chicken Selection and Preparation Tips

Choosing the right chicken and preparing it well are key to a great Chicken with Lavender dish. As a home chef, I've found the best chicken and how to prepare it. This brings out the lovely flavors of lavender.

Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken

I always choose lavender buff orpingtons or lavender orpingtons for Chicken with Lavender. These heritage chickens have meat that's rich and pairs well with lavender. I prefer bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks. The extra fat keeps the meat moist and tender.

Proper Cleaning and Seasoning Methods

Before seasoning, clean and dry the chicken well. I rinse it under cold water to remove impurities. Then, I dry it with paper towels to crisp the skin in the oven. Next, I season it with salt, pepper, and dried lavender buds. This ensures the meat absorbs the flavors well.

Marination Techniques

I marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh lavender for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This adds a deep lavender flavor.
For a quick flavor boost, mix melted butter or olive oil, honey, and dried lavender. This marinade keeps the chicken moist and adds flavor.

By choosing the right lavender buff orpingtons or lavender orpingtons, cleaning, seasoning, and marinating well, you'll make an amazing Chicken with Lavender dish. It will surely impress your taste buds.

Step-by-Step Chicken with Lavender Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken (preferably lavender ameraucana chickens or lavender ameraucana hens) under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Season thoroughly with sea salt, black pepper, and dried lavender buds, ensuring even coating.

Step 2: Create the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, melted butter, olive oil, and dried lavender.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Notes

Culinary-grade lavender is essential to avoid bitterness. Avoid using ornamental lavender like lavender buff orpingtons or lavender ameraucana for cooking.
Marinating for longer intensifies the floral notes, but even a quick 30-minute soak works wonders.
Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

This Chicken with Lavender recipe captures the essence of French-inspired cuisine. By combining succulent chicken with the delicate aroma of lavender, it creates an unforgettable dining experience. For more delightful recipes, explore my Tales Of A Kitchen and discover the joy of cooking with fresh, aromatic ingredients.

FAQs

Q: What are lavender buff orpingtons and how are they different from other orpingtons?

A: Lavender buff orpingtons are a special type of orpington chicken. They have a lovely lavender color to their feathers. This is different from the traditional buff orpingtons, which have golden-brown feathers. The lavender variety has a softer, more muted look. This adds elegance to their appearance.

Q: Can I use lavender ameraucana chickens in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can! Lavender ameraucana chickens are another beautiful breed. They have lavender-blue feathers, which add a lovely touch to the dish.

Q: What are the health benefits of cooking with lavender?

A: Lavender is not just for its smell and taste. It's also good for you. It's full of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It might even help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Adding lavender to your chicken dish makes it tasty and healthy.