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Chicken with Walnut Sauce, inspired by Georgian “Satsivi,” transforms simple chicken into a delightfully creamy, nutty comfort dish that’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Featuring fresh cilantro, spicy chillies, and savory walnuts, each bite offers savory depth you’ll love. This 30-minute dinner is naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and packs a global twist!
Table of Contents
Ingredients Table
Equipment List
Get the best results with these must-have kitchen tools (affiliate links):
- Food processor: Amazon
- Frying pans: Amazon
- Mixing bowls: Amazon
- Measuring cups and spoons: Amazon
- Chef’s knives: Amazon
- Cutting board: Amazon
- Kitchen utensils: Amazon
- Oven (if finishing or warming): Amazon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Walnut Paste
- In a food processor, combine walnuts, cilantro, chillies, garlic, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup chicken stock. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Sear and Cook the Chicken
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium. Brown chicken on both sides in batches; transfer to a plate.
Build the Sauce
- Discard all but 2 tbsp of fat. Add chopped onion; cook 5 minutes over low heat until tender but not colored.
- Add flour and stir. Slowly add remaining chicken stock, stirring to smooth out. Increase the heat to bring to a boil, then reduce.
Combine and Simmer
- Add the satsivi walnut paste and stir well. Return chicken to the pan.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thicker than heavy cream.
Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped tarragon and cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice and hearty flatbread.
Helpful Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for the fastest results.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before blending for a deeper flavor.
- This recipe is traditionally served slightly chilled in Georgia, so leftovers are ideal for meal prep.
FAQ – Chicken with Walnut Sauce
Can I make this with shredded or ground chicken?
Absolutely follow the same steps but reduce simmer time to 15 minutes.
What is satsivi?
Satsivi is a classic Georgian dish where poultry pairs with a rich walnut sauce, spiced for warmth and complexity.
Is the recipe gluten-free?
If using a gluten-free flour or omitting flour, yes!
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the walnut sauce flavors improve overnight. Store in the fridge and serve cold or gently reheated.
What sides pair well?
Simple rice, flatbread, or roasted vegetables work perfectly.
Conclusion
Give this recipe a try tonight and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Pin for later and share with other chicken lovers.
PrintEasy Chicken with Walnut Sauce : 30-Minute Healthy Dinner
Creamy, nutty chicken dish starring a silky walnut sauce, inspired by Georgian satsivi.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Georgian
Ingredients
1 cup/125g walnuts
20 g cilantro
1–2 chillies
2–3 cloves garlic
1 lemon, juice of
1 tbsp olive oil
2 lbs/900g chicken pieces
Salt
Pepper
1 medium onion
2 tbsp flour
2 cups/950ml chicken stock
1–2 tbsp tarragon, chopped
1–2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Instructions
1. In a food processor, combine walnuts, cilantro, chillies, garlic, lemon juice, and 1/2 cup chicken stock. Blend until smooth; set aside.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown in olive oil, in batches, until golden; transfer aside.
3. Discard excess fat except 2 tbsp; saute onion 5 min until soft.
4. Add flour, stir, then gradually add chicken stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat.
5. Stir in walnut paste. Return chicken, simmer 30 min until sauce thickens.
6. Sprinkle with cilantro/tarragon. Serve with rice and flatbread.
Notes
For richer flavor, toast walnuts first. Can be served cold or warm. Prep all equipment, especially a sturdy food processor.
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