Braised Chicken with Olives, Carrots, and Chickpeas

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place chicken pieces in skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Saute until chicken is nicely crisped and browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a large plate, and set aside.

Reduce heat to medium-low; to the same skillet, add onion, carrots, garlic, and ginger. Saute, stirring frequently, until onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add chicken broth, the water, and wine; bring to a boil, and deglaze pan by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. Return chicken to skillet, and add thyme. Bring liquid back to a boil; cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise 45 minutes.

Remove skillet from oven, and stir in raisins, olives, and chickpeas. Return to oven; continue braising, uncovered, 20 minutes more. Remove from oven, and discard thyme. Serve hot.