Admittedly, I’m a pseudo alcoholic. It’s as much of a problem as it needs to be, but not as serious that my entire existence depends on my need for a liquor fix. To simplify what I said, I like liquor, it makes me happy and I encourage others to utilize it in various aspects of their lifestyles. Insert the Never Cook Sober Cookbook by Stacy Laabs & Sherri Field. Liquor and wine have been an integral part of cooking since, well, for a very long time. What better way to incorporate two loves? So, periodically we will feature an adapted recipe from the ones listed in the cookbook (one we surely encourage you guys to purchase). Up first: Last Call Long Island Iced Tea Chicken
This one might get you drunk! Here’s what you need:
2 tablespoons each of vodka, gin, rum, tequila (and add a triple sec if you’d like). If you’re really bold add a bit of your favorite whisky too.
1 ounce of sweet-and-sour mix, and a little bit of Coke.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (the leaner the better!)
2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 cup of chicken stock, 1/4 teaspoon salt, red pepper flakes, 1/4 cup of whipping cream and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter.
Here’s what you do:
1. Mix all the liquor, sweet-and-sour mix, and splash of Coke into a resealable plastic bag. Place both chicken breasts in the bag and let them marinate for a couple of hours in the refrigerator.
2. After about two showings of your favorite guilty pleasure reality show, take the marinated chicken out the bag (don’t discard the liquor!). Heat the olive oil in a large skill it and sauté the breast until they are golden. Keep the warm.
3. Pour the marinade (the lovely mix of liquor) into the pan along with the chicken stock. Bring the mix to a simmer, taking up all the caramelized bits from the pan.
4. Add the salt, red pepper and simmer until the sauce begins to thicken. Add in the whipping cream then remove from the heat. After that, add the tablespoon of butter and whisk away. Next you serve the sauce over the warm chicken.
5. DRINK, I mean, eat away!
It’s suggested that you pair the chicken with potatoes (I suggest baby red mashed potatoes) and fresh green beans. Also use the liquor you’ve purchased to concoct a great Long Island Iced Tea that will surely enhance the flavors of your meal.
Alcohol is necessary for a man so that he can have a good opinion of himself, undisturbed by the facts.”
–Finely Peter Dunne
Enjoy!
-Cj
