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Chicken Legs with Juniper

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A rustic Alpine-inspired dish featuring tender baked chicken legs layered over sweet onions and infused with aromatic juniper berries, white wine, and gin for a subtle botanical depth.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 large chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 juniper berries, lightly crushed
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 4 ounces gin
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Thinly slice the onion into even rounds or half-moons.
  3. Lightly butter a medium casserole dish. Spread half of the onions on the bottom and place the bay leaf on top.
  4. Arrange the chicken thighs over the onions and season with salt and black pepper.
  5. Crush the juniper berries and mix with the remaining onions.
  6. Spread the juniper-onion mixture over the chicken and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
  8. Whisk together white wine and cornstarch until dissolved. Remove dish from oven and pour in the wine mixture and gin.
  9. Return to oven and bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. Let rest a few minutes before serving. Spoon onions and sauce over the chicken and serve hot.

Notes

  • Chicken drumsticks can be used instead of thighs.
  • Add fresh thyme for additional herbal flavor.
  • Substitute half the wine with chicken broth for a milder sauce.
  • Add carrots or fennel for extra depth.
  • Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days.
  • Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
  • Freeze up to 2 months; onion texture may soften after thawing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/chicken-legs-with-juniper/