Serve this richly flavored chicken over soft-cooked polenta or steamed Arborio rice. The savoriness of the sauce is a wonderful blending of the dried mushrooms and Marsala wine. Handle the Heat created this recipe from an ingredient list submitted by Nancy D., who won a grand prize in the Just Bare® Chicken +5 Ingredient Challenge.
Crush anise seeds in a mortar and pestle or by placing them between two pieces of waxed paper and use a rolling pin to roll over or lightly pound them. The gentle licorice flavor blends well with the sweetness of the fruit and rich port, while the dash of balsamic brings a tart balance.
Any dried mushrooms will work beautifully in this unique method for seasoning chicken. The mushroom “dust” lends a deep, rich flavor as it’s absorbed into the chicken skin. Making a creamy risotto with farro—a farrotto—filled with fresh mushrooms only boosts the umami of the dish.