Sauvignon Blanc is among the most flavorful and refreshing wines on Earth.
But the characteristics that make it unique — its relatively high acid level, its “grassy” impression in the nose, its mild herbal flavors in the mouth — also render it a real challenge to pair with food.
But we’ve found a recipe that works beautifully, primarily because of one ingredient: basil.
The recipe will serve 2 to 4 people, depending on your appetites… and your willingness to share.
CITRUS ROASTED CHICKEN WITH BASIL CREAM
Ingredients
* 1 whole roasting or frying chicken
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Juice and zest of one 1 lemon, 1 lime and 1 orange
* 1 tablespoon garlic
* 1 stick butter, softened
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1/4 cup fresh chopped basil leaves
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Rinse and dry chicken, and prepare for roasting.
3. Mix butter, juices, zests, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Brush or rub over entire chicken.
4. Roast in oven until temperature is 165 degrees internally. Remove from oven, move chicken to a cutting board, and let rest.
5. Strain pan juices into small heavy-bottom sauce pan. Bring juices to a boil and reduce by one-half.
6. Pour cream into sauce pan and add fresh basil. Bring to a boil and reduce until sauce coats the back of a spoon.
7. Check seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper, if needed.
8. Divide chicken into desired portions and serve with basil cream… and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
