America's Test Kitchen Season 13 Episode 9 Big, Bold Chicken Braises

In season 13 episode 9 of America's Test Kitchen, viewers are taken on a flavorful journey as the hosts explore the world of chicken braises. The episode, titled "Big, Bold Chicken Braises," delves into the art of braising, which involves cooking meat slowly in liquid until it becomes tender and succulent.

The hosts start off by explaining the importance of searing the chicken before the braising process. This step not only adds flavor to the meat but also helps to develop a flavorful base for the braise. They then demonstrate how to make a classic French braised chicken dish, also known as Coq Au Vin. This dish is made with red wine, bacon, mushrooms, pearl onions, and of course, chicken. The hosts also provide some tips on how to make the dish more accessible by using ingredients that are readily available.

Next, the hosts explore a braised chicken dish with a Moroccan twist. This dish is made with chicken thighs, preserved lemons, green olives, and aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. The hosts explain how to balance the flavors and create a wholesome dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. The dish is then finished off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of labneh, a tangy Middle Eastern yogurt spread.

Moving onto an Asian-inspired dish, the hosts demonstrate how to make a Chinese-style braised chicken dish with ginger and soy sauce. This recipe is simple, yet bursting with flavors. It is made with bone-in chicken pieces, fresh ginger, garlic, and other seasonings such as Shaoxing wine and dark soy sauce. The hosts explain the importance of using dark soy sauce to give the dish a rich color and flavor. The dish is then paired with steamed white rice and garnished with green onions.

Finally, the hosts demonstrate how to make a comfort food classic, chicken and dumplings. This dish is made by braising a whole chicken with aromatics and stock until it is tender and flavorful. The chicken is then pulled apart and mixed with a rich and creamy gravy. The hosts then teach viewers how to make fluffy, buttery dumplings that are steamed on top of the chicken mixture. The result is a wholesome and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide useful tips and techniques for braising chicken perfectly every time. They also explain the importance of using the right utensils and equipment to achieve the best results. Viewers will come away from this episode with an understanding of the art of braising and a newfound appreciation for the humble chicken.

In summary, episode 9 of season 13 of America's Test Kitchen is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about the wonderful world of braised chicken dishes. With a wide variety of recipes from different cuisines, viewers are sure to find something that they will love. From the classic French Coq Au Vin to the comforting chicken and dumplings, this episode has everything that a chicken lover could ask for.