Charlie Davis’s Recipe for Chicken with Basil
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of tender chicken paired with aromatic basil in this culinary journey that promises to elevate your taste buds.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, join me as we explore the delicious marriage of succulent chicken and fragrant basil, unlocking the secrets to creating mouthwatering dishes that will delight your senses and leave you craving more.
Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure celebrating the timeless combination of chicken and basil, where every bite is a symphony of savory goodness.
I first met Charles Davis online when he emailed me on January 21, 1997. He said, ” I’m Charlie, aka “Cheap Charlie.” Another of the weekend (and weekday) born-again-gourmets. I’ve been messing around in the kitchen for 64 years and still enjoy inventing and discovering.”
Wow, that’s very cool. This was around the time I started The Reluctant Gourmet website and was thrilled anybody contacted me. He sent me several recipes over time, but I last heard from him a few years ago.
I’ve posted Charlie Davis’s second recipe on Novice to Novice. If you like this recipe, you may want to check out his award-winning Charlie D’s Chicken Breasts Q.E.D.
Cherry Tomatoes
With their vibrant hues and a burst of flavor, Cherry tomatoes are a miniature marvel in the world of culinary delights. These petite, bite-sized tomatoes pack a powerful punch, boasting a sweet and tangy taste that can elevate any dish they grace. Originating from South America, cherry tomatoes have become a beloved ingredient in kitchens worldwide, prized for their versatility and culinary appeal.
One of the most enchanting qualities of cherry tomatoes is their stunning array of colors, ranging from fiery reds to golden yellows and deep purples. Their diminutive size belies their rich flavor, as each tiny tomato explodes with juiciness and sweetness when bitten into. Whether enjoyed fresh off the vine as a snack, tossed into salads for a burst of freshness, or roasted to perfection for a savory accompaniment, cherry tomatoes add a vibrant pop of color and flavor to any dish.
Linguini
Linguini, a beloved member of the pasta family, holds a special place in the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. With its long, slender strands and supple texture, linguini provides a delightful canvas for a myriad of flavorful sauces and ingredients.
Originating from the Campania region of Italy, linguini, which translates to “little tongues” in Italian, embodies the essence of traditional Italian cuisine while offering a versatile foundation for culinary creativity.
The beauty of linguini lies in its ability to perfectly complement a wide range of sauces, from the simplicity of a classic marinara to the richness of a creamy Alfredo or the boldness of a spicy arrabbiata. Its flat shape allows it to easily hold sauces, ensuring every bite is infused with flavor. Additionally, linguini’s slightly thicker texture than spaghetti provides a satisfying chewiness that enhances the overall dining experience.
Basil Leaves (Fresh)
Fresh basil leaves refer to the green, aromatic leaves of the basil plant (Ocimum basilicum) that are harvested and used in cooking. Basil is a popular herb in many cuisines and is known for its sweet, slightly peppery flavor and distinct aroma. The leaves are often used fresh, as their flavor is most vibrant when they are not subjected to prolonged heat.
Basil leaves are generally oval-shaped with a smooth texture. They are bright green in color and may have a slightly glossy surface. They have a sweet, aromatic flavor with hints of peppery and mildly spicy notes. The flavor is often described as floral and herbaceous.
Basil is known for its strong and pleasant aroma. Crushing or tearing the leaves releases the essential oils, intensifying the fragrance.
Fresh basil leaves add a burst of flavor and freshness to a wide range of dishes. Whether used in salads, sauces or as a garnish, basil is celebrated for its ability to enhance the overall taste and aroma of various culinary creations.
Chicken with Basil Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 pound chicken broiler
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 large onion
- 2 medium green onions
- 1 tablespoon garlic
- ½ cup parsley
- 14½ ounce can tomatoes stewed, chunky style
- 1 can olives small, black, pitted, drained
- 1 pound mushroom caps
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary leaves only
- ½ cup fresh basil packed
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 pound linguini or pasta of choice - cooked as directed
- basil leaves for garnish
- cherry tomatoes for garnish
Instructions
- Start by cutting up the whole chicken into pieces.
- The onions and peppers must be chopped, and the garlic and parsley minced. The basil should be coarsely chopped.
- Remove the stems from the mushrooms. If you are serving this with the suggested linguini, you must time it right so the pasta is ready when the chicken is done.
- Heat oil in a large fry pan with a tight-fitting lid (or a WOK). Add chicken breast halves, thighs, legs, and wings (end joint removed). Cook over medium heat, turning, until lightly browned. Remove chicken pieces and set aside, keeping warm.
- Add the onion, peppers, and garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for about 3 minutes or until the onions are softened.
- Add half the parsley, canned tomatoes, olives, mushrooms, and basil. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the sugar and remaining basil.
- Arrange chicken pieces atop the sauce; sprinkle with the salt, pepper, and rosemary. Cover tightly, and cook over medium-low heat for 30 minutes or until chicken is very tender.
- Remove the cores of the cherry tomatoes and insert the remaining black olives for garnish.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to the directions on the package; drain.
- Remove chicken pieces from the sauce; toss pasta and sauce together. Turn onto a serving dish. Arrange chicken pieces atop the pasta.
- Garnish with basil sprigs and olive-stuffed cherry tomatoes.
