Bulgarian Chicken with Walnuts
A flavorful Bulgarian dish featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, savory sauce made with ground walnuts, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices. This recipe offers a unique taste of Bulgarian home cooking, often served as a comforting main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Chicken thighs(boneless, skinless, cut into 1.5-inch pieces)
- 2 cups Walnuts(finely ground)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 cups Chicken broth
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Ground coriander
- 0.5 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Remove the browned chicken and set aside.
💡 Tip: Browning the chicken in batches ensures a good sear and prevents it from steaming. - 2
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, paprika, coriander, and cumin, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
In a food processor, combine the finely ground walnuts with the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. Gradually add the chicken broth while processing until a smooth, thick sauce forms.
💡 Tip: If you don't have a food processor, you can finely mince the walnuts and garlic and mix them with the sautéed onions and broth. - 4
Return the browned chicken to the skillet with the walnut sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
💡 Tip: Simmering gently allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become very tender. - 5
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end, as the flavors will have intensified during cooking.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic flavor, use freshly ground walnuts.
- ✓If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or water.
- ✓This dish can be served with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Some recipes include a tablespoon of red wine vinegar for a slight tang.