Creamy Chicken Shanks with Ptitim and Garden Vegetables is a wholesome and satisfying dish that brings together rich, savory flavors with a hearty texture. Combining marinated chicken shanks with creamy ptitim (also known as Israeli couscous), and a vibrant medley of vegetables, this recipe is the perfect balance between comfort food and nutrition-packed goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this flavorful one-pot meal is sure to impress with its delightful aroma and nourishing ingredients.
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 30 minutes (includes marination)
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Cooking Time: 60 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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Servings: 4
Ingredients
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600g chicken shanks
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Salt (to taste)
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Black pepper (to taste)
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp dried garlic
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Vegetable oil (for marinating and cooking)
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Butter (for frying)
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250g chicken broth
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1 tsp salt
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200g ptitim (Israeli couscous)
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500ml cream
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp oregano
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1 tsp curry powder
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Garlic (2–3 cloves, minced)
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Green onions (chopped)
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Dill (chopped)
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1 carrot (grated or julienned)
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½ onion (chopped)
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1 chili pepper (optional, finely chopped)
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1 zucchini (cubed)
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1 bell pepper (chopped)
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½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
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½ cup corn (fresh or canned)
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Additional salt and pepper to taste
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Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Season the chicken shanks with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried garlic. Rub the spices thoroughly into the meat and drizzle with a little vegetable oil to help the seasoning penetrate. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a combination of vegetable oil and butter in a skillet. Once hot, add the marinated chicken shanks and sear them on all sides until golden brown. This locks in the juices and adds rich flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Ptitim
In a separate saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer and season with salt. Add the ptitim and cook for a few minutes. Pour in the cream and stir in paprika, oregano, curry powder, and minced garlic. Let the mixture cook gently, allowing the ptitim to absorb the creamy liquid while becoming tender.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In another pan, heat vegetable oil and butter. Add the grated carrot and cook for a few minutes. Add the chopped onion and continue sautéing until translucent. Then, add the chili pepper, zucchini, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes. Finally, add peas, garlic, and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until vegetables are soft but still colorful.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked vegetables and seared chicken into the creamy ptitim mixture. Stir gently to combine, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Simmer everything for 10–15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, stir in chopped green onions, dill, and parsley. Garnish with extra herbs for a pop of freshness and serve hot.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~620 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Carbohydrates: 40g
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Fat: 35g
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Fiber: 5g
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Sugar: 5g
Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Israeli couscous, or ptitim, was developed in Israel in the 1950s as a rice substitute. Its chewy texture and ability to soak up sauces make it perfect for creamy or savory dishes. Chicken shanks, known for their richness and tenderness when cooked slowly, are a favorite in European and Middle Eastern cuisines. This dish marries the best of both—Mediterranean grains and hearty meat—into one robust and creamy comfort food classic.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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It’s a complete one-pot meal.
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The creamy sauce is luxurious and satisfying.
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It uses everyday pantry and fresh ingredients.
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Packed with nutrients from a colorful medley of vegetables.
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Customizable to your taste—mild or spicy.
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Great for family meals or meal prep.
Health Benefits
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High protein: Chicken shanks are rich in protein, essential for muscle health.
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Vitamin-rich: The mixed vegetables provide fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.
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Probiotics (if using fresh cream): Can aid digestion.
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Balanced meal: Combines lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve hot with a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
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Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
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Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
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Garnish with lemon zest for a citrusy finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping marination: This results in bland chicken.
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Overcooking the ptitim: Can make it mushy. Cook until just al dente.
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Not squeezing vegetables: Especially if using frozen vegetables—excess water can dilute the sauce.
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Crowding the pan when searing: This steams rather than browns the chicken.
Pairing Recommendations
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Beverage: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a mild iced tea.
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Side: Garlic bread, cucumber yogurt salad, or grilled asparagus.
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Dessert: A light panna cotta or fruit salad balances the rich main course.
Cooking Tips
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Use bone-in shanks for more flavor, though boneless works too.
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You can substitute ptitim with orzo or pearl barley.
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Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream for extra depth.
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If using heavy cream, thin with a bit of milk to prevent it from becoming overly rich.
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Fresh herbs should be added at the end to preserve their aroma.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Creamy Garlic Chicken with Mushrooms
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Orzo with Spinach and Feta
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Herb Butter Chicken and Rice Skillet
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Chicken Fricassee with Vegetables
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Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use veggie broth.
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Spicy version: Add more chili or cayenne for a kick.
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Mushroom-heavy: Use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for earthy flavor.
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Cheesy twist: Stir in grated Parmesan at the end for a cheesy upgrade.
Ingredient Spotlight: Ptitim (Israeli Couscous)
Ptitim is a toasted pasta shaped like pearls. Unlike traditional couscous, it has a bouncy, al dente texture. It’s highly versatile and absorbs flavors beautifully. In this dish, it serves as a comforting base, making every bite creamy and full of flavor. It’s also easier to cook than rice and makes a great substitute in risotto-like dishes.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Shanks with Ptitim and Vegetables is a heartwarming dish that’s both delicious and nourishing. Its blend of spice-rubbed chicken, creamy couscous, and sautéed vegetables creates a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. This dish captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food with a gourmet touch. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s bound to earn rave reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is ptitim?
Ptitim, also called Israeli couscous, is a type of toasted pasta shaped like small pearls. It has a chewy texture and is excellent in creamy or saucy dishes.
2. Can I use chicken breast instead of shanks?
Yes, but chicken shanks offer more flavor and tenderness due to the bone and dark meat. Chicken breast may become dry if overcooked.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth.
4. Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and skip the butter or replace it with olive oil.
5. What other vegetables can I use?
You can add mushrooms, broccoli, spinach, or sweet potatoes—any vegetables that hold up to cooking.
6. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, the chicken and ptitim can be frozen separately and reheated.
7. What kind of cream should I use?
Use heavy cream (33–36% fat) for best results. You can use light cream, but the sauce will be thinner.
8. Can I cook ptitim directly with the chicken?
Yes, once the chicken is partially cooked, add the ptitim and liquids to the pan and simmer together.
9. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Yes. Even a 30-minute marination improves flavor and tenderness significantly.
10. Can I use other grains instead of ptitim?
You can substitute orzo, barley, or small pasta like ditalini. Adjust cooking liquid and time accordingly.