I hope the banana leaves will entice—not discourage—you from making this recipe. The leaves may be tricky to find, but they are worth it. Available in most Latin markets or through online sources, the banana leaves give off an intoxicating smokiness you cannot get from any other ingredient. This simple recipe can also be made with fish and shellfish. For this recipe, you will need five 12-inch squares of banana leaves.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 4
Ingredients
Preparation
Marinate the Chicken
Step 1
Put the chicken in a sealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag and distribute the marinade evenly over the chicken. Place in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Form Packets using the Banana Leaves
Step 2
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Lay a banana leaf in front of you, making sure the shiny side is facing up. Place a chicken breast with marinade still clinging to it in the center of the leaf and season with salt and pepper. Fold one side of the leaf over the chicken. Overlap the opposite side over the leaf. Fold the two ends in toward the center and place the package—seam side down—on a baking sheet. Tear a long thin strip from an extra piece of banana leaf and tie it around the chicken-stuffed package to secure it. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
Roast the Packets
Step 3
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 4
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil. Place the chicken packets on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 5
Roast the chicken packets for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to sit for 5 minutes before opening.
Serve
Step 6
The chicken should be served in its banana leaf wrapper and opened by guests at the table.
COOKING NOTES
Step 7
INGREDIENTS
Step 8
Banana Leaves
Step 9
These are most commonly found frozen. To use, just thaw at room temperature and unfold. 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.
Step 10
If you are using the frozen leaves, you will notice that each package holds a good number of leaves. 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. You can defrost and refreeze the leaves as often as you need. It will not affect the flavor or texture of these hearty leaves.
Step 11
TECHNIQUES
Step 12
Using a Substitute for Banana Leaves
Step 13
You can substitute 12-inch squares of aluminum foil or parchment paper for banana leaves. The ultimate flavor of the dish will be altered slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Step 14
Grilling Packets
Step 15
The packets can also be cooked in an outdoor grill. Heat your grill to medium-high and place the packets on it, seam side down. Close the grill cover and allow to cook for 30 minutes.
Step 16
ADVANCE PREPARATION
Step 17
The packages can be made early in the day and left in the refrigerator until you are ready for them.
Step 18
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Step 19
This dish can be served on individual plates or on a platter on a buffet table. In both cases, allow your guest to open the banana-leaf packages themselves. They will not only be impressed with the presentation, they will be intoxicated by the smoky aroma.
