Roasted chicken plated with sprigs of rosemary and caramelized dates

Did you know that California produces 15% of the world's dates? From the soft and syrupy Barhi to the firm Deglet Noor, dates are a perfect match for tender, juicy chicken. This Chicken with Caramelized Dates & Herbs blends the sweetness of dates with fragrant rosemary, sage, and garlic, creating a gourmet dish that’s both easy and impressive.

Want more bold flavors? Explore our Cucina Migrante Cookbook for authentic recipes from around the world!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Perfect Balance of Sweet & Savory – Juicy dates meet golden-browned chicken.
✔ Simple Yet Sophisticated – Just a handful of ingredients for a restaurant-quality dish.
✔ Naturally Sweetened – No added sugar, just the richness of dates.
✔ Customizable – Works with different herbs, cuts of chicken, and even plant-based alternatives.
✔ One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more flavor!

Unexpected Lovers: Chicken with Caramelized Dates & Herbs

A gourmet sweet & savory dish blending succulent chicken with caramelized dates, garlic, and fragrant herbs.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken thighs (or breasts, wings, or leg quarters)
10-15 dates, pitted
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 sprigs rosemary (or thyme, marjoram)
2 sprigs sage
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
Zest of ½ lemon
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Splash of white wine (or broth/water)

Instructions

Heat 2 tbsp EVOO in a skillet over low-medium heat.
Add garlic, rosemary, and sage, sautéing until fragrant.
Stir in dates and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add a splash of warm water or white wine, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Set aside.
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp EVOO, garlic, rosemary, and sage.
Heat on medium until sizzling, then add chicken.
Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
Return dates to the skillet, add a splash of white wine, cover, and cook until chicken is fully done.
Finish with lemon zest and serve warm with sauce.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 410
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 22g

Looking for more sweet & savory dishes? Check out the Cucina Migrante Cookbook!

Pro Tips & Hacks

✅ Cook on low-medium heat – Prevents burning and keeps everything juicy.
✅ Keep it moist – Add splashes of water or broth to maintain moisture.
✅ Try different date varieties – Medjool for richness, Deglet Noor for firmer texture.
✅ Use fresh herbs – Rosemary, sage, thyme, or marjoram all work beautifully.
✅ Pair with grains – Serve over couscous, quinoa, or wild rice for a complete meal.

Substitutions & Variations

Chicken Alternatives: Swap thighs for breasts, wings, or leg quarters.
Plant-Based Version: Substitute mushrooms, tofu, or seitan for chicken.
Different Cooking Liquid: Use apple cider, vegetable broth, or balsamic vinegar instead of white wine.
Spicier Version: Add red pepper flakes or Aleppo pepper to the pan.
Extra Creaminess: Serve with a drizzle of tahini or yogurt on top.

Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Comment below and let us know how it turned out. Did you make any fun modifications? Share your experience with us!