Tomato & Red-Wine Braised Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

• 4 (1/2-lb.) whole chicken legs, skinned
• 3/4 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (28 oz.) can Italian-seasoned crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup dry red wine
• 3 tbsp. fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 8 oz. pappardelle or extra-wide noodles

Makes 4 Servings (1 cup pasta, 1 chicken leg, & 1/2 cup sauce per serving)

1. Sprinkle the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and 1/8 teaspoon of the pepper. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
2. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes and wine; bring to a boil. Reduced the heat and simmer, uncovered, about 5 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet and add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper; return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, until the chicken is cooked through and pulls easily from the bones, 35-40 minutes.
3. Transfer the chicken to a plate; cover with foil to keep warm. Return the tomato mixture in the skillet to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, until slightly thickened, about 8 minutes. Return the chicken to the skillet, then stir in the parsley and orange zest.
4. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package directions, omitting the salt, if desired; drain. Divide the pasta among 4 plates, then top with a chicken leg and the sauce.

WW POINTS VALUE: 12 pts.

 

Note: This recipe appears in the WW Ultimate Chicken Cookbook. If you enjoy Italian cuisine, this dish is for you. Chicken and tomatoes always make a delicious combination. The orange zest adds a touch of zing  and flare to this dish. If you don't have chicken legs on hand, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and the meal will be just as tasty but the point value will decrease and the cooking time will decrease as well. This Italian comfort food will be a favorite on the weekend and make you wish you were in the heart of Italy.