Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make poultry dish, look no further than chicken tabaka! This popular Georgian dish is made by frying chicken with a blend of herbs and spices in a large skillet or pan Typically Chicken tabaka is served with rice, potatoes, or vegetables. When it is properly prepared, the chicken should be crispy on the outside, while retaining its tenderness and moistness on the inside.
Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to slice the chicken down the center of the breastbone. Open the chicken and lay it flat, skin-side up.
Cover the chicken with parchment paper or plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to lightly pound the chicken to flatten it evenly.
Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and the dry spices (Adjika and Utskho Suneli).
Cooking the Chicken
Heat a generous drizzle of oil in a large cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat.
Once the pan is hot, place the chicken skin-side up in the skillet. Use a clean, heavy object (like a second cast-iron skillet or a sheet pan topped with a large pot) to weigh down the chicken.
Cook the chicken for 25 minutes, maintaining a medium-low heat. After 25 minutes, flip the chicken so that it is skin-side down, and continue to cook for another 25-30 minutes.
Making Garlic Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, prepare the garlic sauce. In the same skillet, add another drizzle of oil and heat over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until aromatic but not browned.
Add 1/2 cup of water to the pan, scraping off all the delicious bits from the bottom. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for another 3-4 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. Season with salt to taste.
Spoon the garlic sauce over the rested chicken just before serving, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Conclusion
This Georgian chicken dish is sure to become a new family favorite! It's easy to make, and so flavorful with the garlic sauce. Serve it with rice or potatoes, and a side of vegetables for a complete meal. You'll love the crispy chicken skin, and the juicy, tender meat. Give our chicken tabaka recipe a try and don't forget to check out our other authentic Georgian recipes.
Shop Georgian Spices - Suneli Valley
If you're looking for authentic flavors of Georgia, Suneli Valley is the perfect place to shop. We carry adjika, utskho suneli, and a variety of other spice blends, so you can make all of your favorite Georgian dishes at home. Shop our online Georgian grocery store today and get everything you need to create delicious, authentic Georgian cuisine.
