Chicken with Forty Cloves of Garlic

Season chicken liberally with salt and pepper. Place a deep, nonreactive skillet or Dutch oven over high heat, and add oil and butter.

When fats are hot but not smoking, add chicken pieces skin side down and cook until skin turns an even, golden brown, about 5 minutes. Work in batches, if necessary, and carefully regulate heat to avoid scorching skin. Turn pieces and brown them on other side for an additional 5 minutes.

Reduce heat to medium. Bury garlic cloves under chicken to make sure they settle in one layer at bottom of skillet. Saute, shaking or stirring pan frequently, until garlic is lightly browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.

Add wine and stock, scraping bottom of pan.

Cover and continue cooking until juices run clear when a thigh is pricked, 10 to 15 minutes more.

Serve chicken with garlic and pan juices and, if desired, rice or sauteed potatoes.