This recipe for chicken legs with a flavorful twist will leave everyone envious of your cooking skills. The combination of spices, pineapple, cheese, and a creamy sauce over rice makes this dish irresistible from the first bite. Let’s get started with this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Legs:
- Chicken legs: 9 pieces
- Basil: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Sweet paprika: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Garlic powder: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Ground coriander: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Salt: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Black pepper: 2 g (0.1 oz)
- Canned pineapple: 100 g (3.5 oz), chopped
- Cheese: 120 g (4.2 oz), grated
For the Rice and Peas:
- Rice: 200 g (7.1 oz)
- Frozen green peas: 100 g (3.5 oz)
- Chicken broth: 300 ml (10 fl oz)
- Cooking cream: 200 g (7.1 oz)
- Turmeric: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Salt: 4 g (0.1 oz)
- Black pepper: 2 g (0.1 oz)
For the Sauce:
- Canned pineapple syrup: 150 ml (5.1 fl oz)
- Ketchup: 50 g (1.8 oz)
- Soy sauce: 40 ml (1.4 fl oz)
- Apple vinegar: 7 ml (0.2 fl oz)
- Sugar: 5 g (0.2 oz)
- Garlic powder: 5 g (0.2 oz)
- Water: 40 ml (1.4 fl oz)
- Starch: 20 g (0.7 oz)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Legs
- Prepare the spice mix:
- In a small bowl, combine 4 g of basil, 4 g of sweet paprika, 4 g of garlic powder, 4 g of ground coriander, 4 g of salt, and 2 g of black pepper.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Rub the spice mix all over the 9 chicken legs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice and Peas
- Cook the rice:
- In a pot, combine 200 g of rice, 100 g of frozen green peas, 300 ml of chicken broth, 200 g of cooking cream, 4 g of turmeric, 4 g of salt, and 2 g of black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Legs
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Bake the chicken:
- Place the marinated chicken legs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.
- Add cheese and pineapple:
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the 120 g of grated cheese and 100 g of chopped canned pineapple over the chicken legs. Return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Make the sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine 150 ml of canned pineapple syrup, 50 g of ketchup, 40 ml of soy sauce, 7 ml of apple vinegar, 5 g of sugar, 5 g of garlic powder, and 40 ml of water. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Thicken the sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 20 g of starch with a little water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this into the sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Simmer:
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it reaches the desired thickness, then remove from heat.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the dish:
- Serve the chicken legs hot, accompanied by the creamy rice and peas. Drizzle the prepared sauce generously over the chicken.
- Garnish and enjoy:
- Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this flavorful, juicy chicken dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Cook’s Notes
- Marination: For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite melting cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda.
Variations
Spicy Chicken Legs
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the spice rub for a spicier kick.
Hawaiian Style
Add extra pineapple chunks and serve with coconut rice for a tropical twist.
Garlic Butter Sauce
Replace the pineapple sauce with a rich garlic butter sauce for a savory alternative.
Vegetable Medley
Add additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the rice for more texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of legs?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or a mix of both. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat before serving.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread.
5. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken legs in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
This chicken legs recipe is sure to make you the envy of your neighbors! The combination of tender, juicy chicken with the sweetness of pineapple and richness of cheese, all served over creamy turmeric rice, creates a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Cook this dish for your family or friends and watch as it becomes a favorite!
