Achiote Chicken Roasted in Banana Leaves

  1. Put the chicken in a sealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade.
  2. Seal the bag and distribute the marinade evenly over the chicken.
  3. Place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
  5. Lay a banana leaf in front of you, making sure the shiny side is facing up.
  6. Place a chicken breast with marinade still clinging to it in the center of the leaf and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Fold one side of the leaf over the chicken.
  8. Overlap the opposite side over the leaf.
  9. Fold the two ends in toward the center and place the packageseam side downon a baking sheet.
  10. Tear a long thin strip from an extra piece of banana leaf and tie it around the chicken-stuffed package to secure it.
  11. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
  12. Preheat the oven to 350F.
  13. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil.
  14. Place the chicken packets on the baking sheet in a single layer.
  15. Roast the chicken packets for 30 minutes.
  16. Remove from oven and allow to sit for 5 minutes before opening.
  17. The chicken should be served in its banana leaf wrapper and opened by guests at the table.
  18. INGREDIENTS
  19. Banana Leaves
  20. These are most commonly found frozen.
  21. To use, just thaw at room temperature and unfold.
  22. Whether you are using fresh or frozen, you want to make sure you cut off the spine that runs through the leaf because it will prevent you from folding it properly.
  23. If you are using the frozen leaves, you will notice that each package holds a good number of leaves.
  24. After defrosting the package and using the leaves that are needed, repack the leaves in plastic wrap, making sure to create an airtight package, and return to the freezer.
  25. You can defrost and refreeze the leaves as often as you need.
  26. It will not affect the flavor or texture of these hearty leaves.
  27. TECHNIQUES
  28. Using a Substitute for Banana Leaves
  29. You can substitute 12-inch squares of aluminum foil or parchment paper for banana leaves.
  30. The ultimate flavor of the dish will be altered slightly, but it will still be delicious.
  31. Grilling Packets
  32. The packets can also be cooked in an outdoor grill.
  33. Heat your grill to medium-high and place the packets on it, seam side down.
  34. Close the grill cover and allow to cook for 30 minutes.
  35. ADVANCE PREPARATION
  36. The packages can be made early in the day and left in the refrigerator until you are ready for them.
  37. SERVING SUGGESTIONS
  38. This dish can be served on individual plates or on a platter on a buffet table.
  39. In both cases, allow your guest to open the banana-leaf packages themselves.
  40. They will not only be impressed with the presentation, they will be intoxicated by the smoky aroma.

chicken breasts, marinade, salt

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/achiote-chicken-roasted-in-banana-leaves-380184 (may not work)

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