When it comes to pairing wine with food, many people believe that white wine is the only option for chicken dishes. However, red wine can be an excellent choice to enhance the flavors of the dish. In this article, we will explore the best types of red wine to pair with chicken and why they work.
there! Today we’ll be discussing a common question among wine enthusiasts and foodies alike: what red wine should you pair with chicken? Chicken is a versatile protein that can be prepared in many different ways, from roasted and grilled to sautéed and fried. This makes it a bit tricky to choose the perfect red wine to complement the flavors of the dish. In this discussion, we’ll explore some popular options and provide some tips for selecting the ideal pairing. Let’s get started!
The Basics of Pairing Red Wine with Chicken
When pairing red wine with chicken, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the type of chicken dish will affect the wine’s pairing. For example, a light red wine will pair well with grilled or roasted chicken. Simultaneously, a full-bodied red wine will work well with chicken dishes that have rich sauces or are served with bold flavors.
Another factor to consider when pairing red wine with chicken is the wine’s tannin level. Tannins are compounds found in wine that can contribute to a bitter taste. High tannin wines can overpower the flavors of chicken. Therefore, it is best to choose a red wine with lower tannin levels when pairing with chicken dishes.
Light-Bodied Red Wine
Light-bodied red wines, such as Pinot Noir and Gamay, are excellent choices for pairing with chicken. These wines have lower tannin levels, making them a perfect match for lighter dishes. They also have bright acidity, which can help cut through the richness of chicken dishes.
Medium-Bodied Red Wine
Medium-bodied red wines, such as Merlot and Sangiovese, are ideal for pairing with grilled or roasted chicken. These wines have a more substantial body than light-bodied red wines. They also have more tannins, which can pair well with the smoky flavors of grilled or roasted chicken.
Full-Bodied Red Wine
Full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, can pair well with chicken dishes that have rich sauces or bold flavors. These wines have high tannin levels, which can stand up to the bold flavors of the dish. However, it is essential to choose a full-bodied red wine with lower tannin levels to avoid overpowering the chicken’s flavors.
The Best Red Wines to Pair with Chicken
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a light-bodied red wine that pairs well with roasted or grilled chicken dishes. It has bright acidity and low tannin levels, making it a perfect match for lighter chicken dishes. Pinot Noir’s earthy flavors can complement the smokiness of grilled or roasted chicken.
Merlot
Merlot is a medium-bodied red wine that pairs well with grilled or roasted chicken dishes. It has a more substantial body than Pinot Noir, making it a perfect match for smoky flavors. Merlot’s low tannin levels can complement the chicken’s flavors without overpowering them.
Syrah
Syrah is a full-bodied red wine that pairs well with chicken dishes that have bold flavors or rich sauces. It has high tannin levels and a full-bodied flavor, making it a perfect match for chicken dishes with bold flavors. However, it is essential to choose a Syrah with lower tannin levels to avoid overpowering the chicken’s flavors.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel is a medium to full-bodied red wine that pairs well with chicken dishes that have a bit of spice. It has a fruity flavor that can complement the chicken’s spiciness. Zinfandel’s medium tannin levels can complement the chicken’s flavors without overpowering them.
Grenache
Grenache is a medium-bodied red wine that pairs well with roasted or grilled chicken dishes. It has a fruity flavor that can complement the chicken’s flavors. Grenache’s low tannin levels can complement the chicken’s flavors without overpowering them.
FAQs – What red wine goes with chicken?
What type of red wine should I choose to pair with chicken?
When it comes to pairing red wine with chicken, you should generally choose light to medium-bodied wines that won’t overpower the flavor of the chicken. Pinot Noir, Beaujolais, and Chianti are all great options to consider. These wines tend to have a lower tannin content, making them a good match for the delicate flavor of chicken.
Can I pair a bold or full-bodied red wine with chicken?
While it’s generally recommended to stick with light to medium-bodied wines when pairing with chicken, there are some bolder reds that can work well. For example, a Syrah or Zinfandel with fruity notes can pair nicely with grilled or barbecued chicken. However, be mindful of the seasoning and preparation of the chicken as to avoid any overpowering flavors from the wine.
Which red wine pairs best with roasted or baked chicken?
A roasted or baked chicken dish can be easily paired with Pinot Noir or Beaujolais as they both complement the delicate flavors of the chicken. If you’re looking for a slightly more bold option, try a Merlot. Its soft tannins and fruity notes make it a good option for roasted or baked chicken dishes.
Can I pair a red wine with chicken that has a heavy sauce or seasoning?
Yes, but you’ll want to choose a wine with enough body and flavor to complement the sauce or seasoning. For example, a Chianti or Sangiovese, with their high acid content, can stand up to a tomato-based sauce nicely. Similarly, a spicy chicken dish can be complemented by a fruit-forward Zinfandel or Shiraz/Syrah where the flavors of the wine balance out the spice.
Is there any red wine I should avoid when pairing with chicken?
It’s not recommended to choose a heavy or oaky red wine when pairing with chicken, as the delicate flavors of the meat can easily be overpowered by a heavy wine. Avoid wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec, which have high tannin content and can be too overpowering for chicken dishes.