Sophie Bennett
Chicken with artichokes is a classic Italian dish that is simple to make and full of flavour. The dish is often cooked in white wine, but what wine should you pair it with? Artichokes are known to pair well with dry, acidic, white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Grüner Veltliner. However, chicken is a versatile meat that can pair well with reds, rosés, and whites. So, what wine should you choose to complement chicken with artichokes?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Wine type | Dry, white wines with high acidity and little to no residual sugar |
| Examples | Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, Albariño, Pinot Grigio, or an unoaked Chardonnay |
| Effect of artichokes on wine | Artichokes contain a compound called cynarin that binds to sweet receptors on the tongue, temporarily shutting them off. When the wine is sipped, the cynarin is pulled off the receptor, reactivating it, and making the wine taste sweeter. |
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What You'll Learn
Wine with chicken: dry whites, reds, rosés
Chicken is a versatile protein that pairs well with various wines. Here are some tips for pairing wine with chicken, focusing on dry whites, reds, and rosés:
Dry Whites
Dry white wines are an excellent choice for chicken dishes, especially those with acidic ingredients like artichokes or tomatoes. Wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, or Albariño are ideal for cutting through the acidity and preventing the wine from tasting metallic or harsh. Other dry whites that pair well with chicken include Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Viognier. Chardonnay, in particular, is a versatile option that can be enjoyed oaked or unoaked, depending on personal preference.
Reds
When it comes to red wines, a simple roasted chicken pairs well with a full-flavoured red, such as a Côtes du Rhône if served with a dark, savory gravy. Chicken dishes with earthy ingredients like mushrooms or tomato sauce also complement medium-bodied reds. For a dish like coq au vin, a Merlot is an excellent choice as its bold, spicy taste will bring out the savoury complexity of the dish. Other red wines to consider for chicken dishes include Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Zinfandel.
Rosés
Rosé wines should not be overlooked when pairing with chicken. Medium-bodied rosés, in particular, are versatile and can stand up to big flavours like anchovy, olives, and garlic. Fruity rosés can also be a delightful choice for spicy chicken dishes. When choosing a rosé, consider the specific ingredients and flavours in your chicken dish to ensure a harmonious pairing.
In summary, when pairing wine with chicken, it's important to consider the dish's ingredients and flavours. Dry white wines are ideal for cutting through acidity, while reds can add depth to roasted or earthy chicken dishes. Rosés, especially medium-bodied varieties, offer versatility and can complement a range of flavours. Experimentation is key, and by following these guidelines, you can create delightful chicken and wine pairings.
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Artichokes and wine: dry, high-acidity, low-sugar
Artichokes contain a naturally occurring chemical called cynarin, which magnifies the perception of sweetness. This can cause wines to taste oddly one-dimensional and overly sweet. To avoid this, it is recommended to pair artichokes with dry, high-acidity, low-sugar wines.
When pairing wine with artichokes, it is best to choose wines with high acidity and no oak contact. Oak imparts sweet notes to wines, such as vanilla, toffee, and caramel, which can be overwhelmed by the cynarin in artichokes. Look for wines described as "zero-dosage," "brut," or "sec," which indicate little to no perceivable sweetness.
Some specific wine varieties that pair well with artichokes include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Grüner Veltliner, and Albariño. A dry Champagne or dry Alsace Riesling can also be excellent choices. If you're looking for bubbles, a Spanish Cava or a softly bubbly Txakoli from Spain's Basque region can be good options.
For a more full-bodied option, a white Carricante from Sicily's Mount Etna or a Savagnin-based Vin Jaune from France's Jura region offer elegant minerality. A briny, nutty Fino Sherry from Spain can also complement the artichoke's flavours. If you're looking for a more herbaceous option, try a Verdelho from Portugal.
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Chicken with artichokes: dry white wine
Chicken with artichokes is a classic Italian dish that combines bite-size chicken with artichoke hearts, white wine, and lemon juice. The wine adds a tart-sweet complexity to the dish, with the alcohol burning off during cooking.
When selecting a wine to pair with chicken with artichokes, it is best to avoid sweet wines, as a compound in artichokes called cynarin can make wine taste sweeter than it normally would. Therefore, dry white wines are recommended, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or an unoaked Chardonnay. These wines can also be used in the cooking of the dish, alongside ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and capers.
If you are looking for a wine to drink with chicken with artichokes, it is best to choose a dry white wine that is highly acidic and contains little to no residual sugar. Wines such as Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, or Albariño are good options.
Overall, chicken with artichokes is a delicious and simple dish that can be made in one pan and pairs well with a variety of dry white wines.
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Avoid: sweet wines like Riesling
When it comes to wine pairings, the basic principle is that you don't want to overpower the dish. Chicken is a versatile meat, and a simple roasted chicken will pair well with a full-flavoured red, a medium-bodied rosé, or a dry white.
However, artichokes are notoriously difficult to match with wine. A compound in artichokes called cynarin binds to sweet receptors on the tongue, temporarily shutting them off. When you sip your wine, the cynarin is pulled off the receptor, reactivating it, and your wine will taste sweeter than it normally would. This means that wines that are already sweet, such as Riesling, will be a poor match for chicken and artichokes.
Instead, dry, acidic white wines with little to no residual sugar, such as Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, or Albariño, are a better choice. If you're cooking with spices, an aromatic medium-dry wine like Pinot Gris or a fruity rosé will also complement the dish.
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Wines to consider: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay
When it comes to wine pairings, chicken with artichokes is a versatile dish that pairs well with several white wines. Here are some wines to consider:
Sauvignon Blanc
A crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice to complement the flavours of chicken and artichokes. Its bright, citrusy notes and grassy undertones can enhance the dish, especially if you're using frozen artichokes. The acidity in Sauvignon Blanc also helps balance the richness of the chicken, creating a delightful contrast.
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio, also known for its crisp and dry character, is another ideal option. It tends to have subtle fruity flavours with hints of minerals, adding a refreshing touch to the meal. The Washington Post's recipe for White Wine-Braised Chicken and Artichokes specifically recommends Pinot Grigio as the wine of choice, ensuring a harmonious pairing.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay, with its fuller body and oaky flavours, can also be a wonderful companion to chicken with artichokes. The Washington Post also features a recipe that incorporates Chardonnay in the cooking process, infusing the chicken with the wine's rich, buttery notes. Chardonnay's versatility means it can range from crisp and light to more full-bodied, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your taste preferences.
When selecting a wine to pair with chicken and artichokes, consider the specific ingredients and preparation methods used in your dish. The versatility of these wines makes them adaptable to various recipes, ensuring a delightful dining experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Dry, white wines that are highly acidic and contain little to no residual sugar, such as Champagne, Sauvignon Blanc, Grüner Veltliner, or Albariño.
Wine is a good drink to have with chicken and artichokes because it helps to avoid overwhelming the food.
If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, a simple glass of water or a soft drink could pair well with the dish.
