Portuguese Braised Chicken with Figs and Bacon, Accompanied by a Bun and Fresh Salad (includes complimentary surprise dessert)

This comforting Portuguese-inspired meal celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Portugal, particularly the Alentejo region, where rustic, sweet-savory combinations are a hallmark of home cooking. The centerpiece, Alentejo-style chicken with dried figs and smoked bacon, exemplifies the art of layering flavors through careful braising. Tender bone-in chicken thighs meld with caramelized figs, aromatic cinnamon, and savory bacon, while a touch of Port wine deepens the sauce, creating a dish that is simultaneously hearty, elegant, and deeply satisfying.

Using quality ingredients, this meal supports both flavor and wellness. Chicken provides high-quality protein, essential B vitamins, and zinc to support energy, immunity, and tissue repair. Dried figs contribute natural sweetness, dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants that promote heart health and digestive balance. Smoked bacon enriches the sauce with umami and healthy fats in moderation, while olive oil adds monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health. Aromatic cinnamon and fresh parsley offer phytonutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds, rounding out the dish with subtle complexity.

The chicken is served with a Portuguese bun, perfect for soaking up the rich fig-and-bacon sauce. I fondly remember the fragrant buns we would buy while traveling in Portugal, their soft, tender crumb a perfect complement to the deep, comforting flavors of the chicken. A simple green salad adds brightness, color, and a hint of acidity, balancing the richness of the meal.

This dish is especially meaningful to me. When we lived in the Netherlands, our summer vacations often took us to Portugal, and I vividly recall the three-day drive filled with anticipation for all the adventures, flavors, and delights that lay ahead. Every bite of this meal captures that same sense of excitement, discovery, and joy — a celebration of seasonality, tradition, and cherished memories.

Together, these elements reflect Portugal’s approach to combining wholesome, seasonal ingredients with thoughtful technique. This meal invites you to slow down, savor the harmony of flavors, and enjoy a feast that is both nourishing and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.