As the evenings draw in, the quest for the ultimate comfort food begins. Chef Ben Lippett, in his latest feature for Guardian Feast, answers the call with a show-stopping roast chicken dish that is as beautiful on the plate as it is on the palate. This recipe masterfully combines sweet, sour, and savoury notes for a truly unforgettable autumnal centrepiece.
A Symphony of Flavours and Textures
Lippett's creation is a lesson in balance. The recipe revolves around a classic roast chicken, elevated to new heights by a trio of ingenious components:
- Sticky Sweet & Sour Figs: Fresh figs are gently cooked in a glaze of red wine vinegar and soft brown sugar, creating a jammy, tangy accompaniment that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
- Crispy, Parmesan-Laced Polenta: Instead of traditional roast potatoes, creamy polenta is set, cut into chunks, and roasted until its edges become irresistibly golden and crisp. A generous addition of Parmesan cheese adds a deep, umami flavour.
- Charred Radicchio: The slight bitterness of radicchio, quickly seared in a hot pan, provides a crucial counterpoint to the sweet figs and rich polenta, completing the flavour profile.
Chef's Secrets for the Perfect Roast
Lippett doesn't just provide a list of ingredients; he shares the techniques that guarantee success. The key is in the preparation and timing. The polenta is made and set in advance, the figs are prepared while the chicken rests, and the radicchio is wilted at the last moment. This ensures every element is served at its absolute best.
The result is a restaurant-quality dish that is entirely achievable for a home cook. The final presentation – golden chicken nestled alongside jewel-like figs, crispy polenta cubes, and vibrant radicchio – is a feast for the eyes before the fork even hits the plate.
Why This Recipe Works
This dish is more than just a meal; it's a sensory experience. It embodies the essence of autumn cooking: hearty, flavourful, and visually evocative of the season's changing colours. It’s the perfect weekend project to impress guests or to simply treat your household to a spectacular dinner that celebrates the best of seasonal produce.
