Chicken, Cherry Tomato, Rosemary & Chilli Pasta – Chicken Thigh Cutlet Recipes NZ
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on one of our favourites –chicken thigh cutlet recipes. The juicy, tender cut of the thigh is perfect for creating hearty meals that everyone will love. And with our easy-to-follow recipe for Chicken, Cherry Tomato, Rosemary and Chilli Pasta, you’ll master the art of cooking chicken thigh cutlets in no time.
Serves 4–6
Ingredients
4 Bird & Barrow Bone-in Free Range Chicken Thigh Cutlets
3 tbsp olive oil
30g butter
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, finely diced
1 tbsp finely diced fresh rosemary leaves
1 tsp dried red chilli flakes
½ cup red wine
2 cups beef stock
1 can chopped tomatoes
1 can cherry tomatoes
500g good quality pappardelle
Finely grated parmesan cheese to serve
The Benefits of Cooking Chicken Thigh Cutlets
Chicken thigh cutlets are an excellent choice for those who crave juicy, flavourful meat. With Bird & Barrow’s top-quality free-range chicken, every dish is bound to be a hit. This particular chicken thigh cutlet recipe, NZ-inspired, showcases the quality of locally produced, free range chicken.
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs for a minute or so on each side. Remove from the pan and set aside until needed.
- Add the butter to the pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the onion. Cook for 10 minutes until tender and translucent. Add the garlic, rosemary and chilli. Cook for a further few minutes.
- Add the red wine, stock and tinned tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Add the chicken pieces back in and reduce to a simmer. You should be cooking chicken thigh cutlets for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken and leave the sauce simmering for another 10 minutes.
- Remove the meat from the bones and add back into the sauce.
- Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions. Add to the sauce and chicken. Toss well.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thigh cutlets from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavourful. Serve with finely grated parmesan as desired.
Tips and Tricks:
Here’s how to ensure you get the most out of chicken thigh cutlet recipes in NZ:
Marinating
When it comes to marinating for chicken thigh cutlet recipes, it’s all in the wait! Sure, a brief 30-minute soak can offer your cutlets a nice hint of taste, but for those who appreciate depth and richness, letting your chicken marinate overnight is the game-changer. Not only does it let the ingredients meld, but it also ensures every bite of your chicken thigh cutlet is bursting with flavour.
Thickness Matters
When selecting your cutlets, try to ensure they are of even thickness. This promotes uniform cooking, ensuring that every part of your chicken is perfectly done and tender.
Searing
Don’t rush this step. Giving your cutlets a good sear over medium-high heat is essential. It’s not just about achieving that picturesque golden-brown hue; it’s about sealing in those precious juices. Remember, a good sear means a juicy chicken interior.
How To Ensure It’s Cooked Perfectly?
While experience might give you a good eye for when meat is ready, nothing beats the accuracy of a meat thermometer. The Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand advises that the internal temperature for bone-in chicken should be 82°C and the internal temperature for all other chicken should be 76°C. A useful tip is to cook until the juices run clear.
Remember, the secret to a perfect dish is not just in the recipe but in the love and passion you put into it. We hope you enjoy this dish as much as we do and that it finds a regular spot on your dining table.
FAQs
Are there any recommended side dishes?
This pasta dish, with its rich blend of chicken, cherry tomato, rosemary, and chilli, is quite a wholesome meal on its own, satisfying both your taste buds and hunger pangs. Its layered flavours and hearty ingredients often mean you don"t need much to accompany it. However, if you're looking to create a more rounded meal or are catering for guests, a few side dish suggestions can elevate the dining experience.
A fresh green salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette or lemon dressing, provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the pasta. The crispness of the greens complements the tenderness of the chicken thigh cutlets, making every bite a perfect balance of textures. Additionally, some crusty bread, whether it's a classic baguette or a rustic sourdough, can be a great accompaniment. It's perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce on your plate, ensuring you savour every last drop of this delicious dish. If you're in the mood for something slightly richer, consider garlic bread or rosemary focaccia.
How do I store leftovers from the chicken thigh cutlet recipes?
To ensure you can relish the taste just as much the next time, proper storage is crucial. Leftovers from cooking chicken thigh cutlets should be promptly stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Safely place them in the fridge, where they'll remain delectable for up to 3 days. When you're ready to dive back into the delights of your chicken thigh cutlet recipe, reheating is a breeze. Always reheat on low heat to ensure the chicken remains tender without drying out. If you find the sauce a tad thickened after refrigeration, simply add a little water or chicken stock. This small addition will revive the sauce, bringing back its original luscious texture, and allowing you to experience the magic of the dish once again.
