Chakhokhbili Tbilisi (Georgian Braised Chicken in Fresh Tomato, Tarragon & Cilantro Sauce) – Authentic Georgia Recipe

Tbilisi masterpiece where seared chicken simmers directly in the juices of ripe tomatoes and mountains of fresh herbs.

Country of Origin
🇬🇪 Georgia (Caucasus, Asia)
Dietary Profile
omnivore
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
30 min
Difficulty
Easy
Signature Staples
Golden pan-seared chicken thighs, 5 ripe plum tomatoes crushed, Caramelized onions, Khmeli suneli (Georgian fenugreek-marigold spice), Fresh tarragon

Ingredients for Chakhokhbili Tbilisi (Georgian Braised Chicken in Fresh Tomato, Tarragon & Cilantro Sauce) (4 Servings)

  • 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) golden pan-seared chicken thighs, prepped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1.5 cups 5 ripe plum tomatoes crushed, washed and trimmed
  • 1 cup caramelized onions
  • 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with khmeli suneli (Georgian fenugreek-marigold spice)
  • 1.5 tbsp traditional Georgia seasoning (fresh tarragon, purple basil, cilantro, garlic)
  • 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a heavy Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat; brown golden pan-seared chicken thighs for 5 minutes.
  2. Add minced onion, garlic, khmeli suneli (Georgian fenugreek-marigold spice), and fresh tarragon, purple basil, cilantro, garlic, stirring for 2 minutes until deeply aromatic.
  3. Add 5 ripe plum tomatoes crushed and pour in the braising liquid; bring to a lively simmer.
  4. Cover and braise over medium-low heat for 20–22 minutes until meltingly tender and the sauce is rich and glossy.
  5. Stir in caramelized onions right before serving warm.

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