No matter which part of the world you reside in, you are most likely to find at least one chicken dish that is savoured by all. Chicken is one of the most beloved meat items across the world, even though it is not really ‘meat’ by definition; it is actually poultry. But the texture of cooked meat and its many health benefits make it a crowd-favourite. Chicken is also very easy to work with and very few religions seem to bar the consumption of it, further adding to its popularity. Now, there must be more than a million chicken dishes prepared across the world, but few have reserved their spot as ‘comfort food’. What is comfort food you ask? Something you keep returning to over and over again, it may be abounded with nostalgia or hold a completely different significance altogether. Either way, you know you are never getting over them, regardless of how easy or complex the recipe is.
Here are five of the most beloved comfort foods around the world that are made with chicken.
1. Chicken Soup
A classic remedy for a lazy, nippy day. Chicken soup, made with chicken chunks, a selection of veggies such as carrots, peas, cauliflower and corn make for a soothing treat for everyone looking to curl up with a hot bowl, wrapped in a blanket, doing nothing and watching the day go by. Pair with croutons or have as is, the choice is yours.
2. Coq Au Vin
This classic French dish is apparently a ‘Sunday favourite’. When translated, Coq au vin means chicken cooked in wine. The French stew features chicken that is slowly and sedulously braised in red wine and a little brandy if required. The dish is not overpowered with too many spices. Bits of bacons, mushrooms and onions make the rich sauce all the more tempting. Served with croutons, this dish has all our heart.
3. Fried Chicken
Chicken coated in a smooth batter and bread crumbs fried until golden and crisp. Fried chicken, fries and a glass of cola is a standard American snack, and we get why is it so popular. Juicy chicken inside that crispy covering is every bit addictive.
4. Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is one of the most iconic Chinese preparation, where rice is tossed with boneless chicken chunks, soy sauce, vinegar, chillies, onions and peppers. This hot rice dish always manages to hit the spot.
5. Chicken Biryani
The delectable rice dish may have Persian roots, but it is a sensation in the Indian subcontinent. The many versions of the dish are proof. Chicken biryani is essentially chicken, rice and masalas cooked in layers. The Hyderabadi Biryani is more on the spicier side, while the Kolkata Biryani comes with addition of potatoes and boiled eggs. Which biryani is your favourite?
