What wine goes with braise chicken?

The best wine pairing for braised chicken depends on the flavors of the braising liquid and the accompanying sides. Here are some general guidelines:

For rich, savory braises:

* Red Wines:

* Pinot Noir: Offers a light to medium body and earthy fruit notes that complement the chicken without overpowering the flavors.

* Gamay: Similar to Pinot Noir, but with a slightly brighter acidity.

* Zinfandel: Offers a fuller body with notes of spice and fruit that pair well with rich braising liquids.

* Syrah/Shiraz: For bolder braises with smoky, savory flavors.

For lighter, more herbal braises:

* White Wines:

* Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp acidity and herbaceous notes complement lighter braises.

* Riesling: Off-dry Riesling offers a balance of sweetness and acidity that works well with herb-infused braises.

* Pinot Grigio: A light, refreshing option that won't clash with delicate flavors.

Other Considerations:

* Braising liquid: If your braising liquid includes wine, choose a wine similar to what was used in the braising.

* Flavor profile: Consider the other flavors in the dish. For example, a braise with mushrooms might pair well with a Pinot Noir, while a braise with tomatoes might pair well with a Zinfandel.

* Personal preference: Ultimately, the best wine pairing is the one that you enjoy the most.

Some specific pairings:

* Braised Chicken with Mushrooms: Pinot Noir, Gamay

* Braised Chicken with Tomatoes: Zinfandel, Syrah/Shiraz

* Braised Chicken with Herbs: Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Grigio

* Braised Chicken with White Wine: A dry white wine similar to what was used in the braise.

Don't be afraid to experiment! There's no right or wrong answer, just find what you like best.