Chicken thighs wrapped in bacon

Chicken thighs wrapped in bacon – a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of crispy bacon combined with the juiciness of chicken thighs? This recipe for chicken thighs wrapped in bacon is not only an excellent choice for a quick dinner but also a dish that impresses with its simplicity and taste. Chicken thighs are a good source of protein, and when combined with bacon, they become a true feast for the taste buds. Additionally, this recipe is versatile and can be served both warm and cold.

Here’s how to prepare these delicious chicken thighs step by step, along with some useful tips and ingredient information.

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (approximately 800 g)
- 8 slices of raw-dry bacon
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Ground pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling

Preparation of chicken thighs wrapped in bacon:

1. Washing the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under running water. This step is essential to ensure proper cleaning of the meat and to remove any impurities.

2. Boiling the thighs: Place the chicken thighs in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and put the pot over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step helps improve the flavor and final appearance of the meat.

3. Cooking the thighs: Let the thighs boil for about 30 minutes or until they are well cooked. Check if they are done using a fork – the meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.

4. Preparing for the oven: After boiling, remove the thighs from the water and let them cool slightly. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the bacon, so pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Then, drizzle the thighs with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.

5. Wrapping in bacon: Now comes the fun part! Take a slice of bacon and wrap each chicken thigh in two slices. Make sure the bacon is tightly wrapped so that it stays on the thighs during baking.

6. Preparing for the oven: Place the bacon-wrapped thighs on the rack of a baking tray. Add a cup of water to the tray, which will help maintain moisture in the oven and prevent the bacon from burning. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the oven and let the thighs bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon becomes beautifully browned and crispy. You’ll smell the delicious aroma of bacon wafting through the kitchen.

8. Serving: These bacon-wrapped chicken thighs can be served warm or cold. You can add a mustard sauce or a fresh salad on the side to complete the meal.

Useful tips:

- You can use chicken drumsticks if you prefer leaner meat.
- Instead of bacon, you can try prosciutto or pancetta for a different flavor.
- If you want a spicy version, add a pinch of chili powder or paprika to the seasoning.

Nutritional information:
A serving of this recipe contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of bacon used. Chicken thighs are rich in protein, and bacon adds a boost of healthy fats. It’s an excellent choice for a hearty meal but should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but make sure to completely thaw them before boiling.

2. Can they be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! You can boil the thighs beforehand and keep them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, wrap them in bacon and bake.

3. What can I serve these thighs with?
They pair perfectly with mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables.

This recipe for bacon-wrapped chicken thighs is perfect for a family dinner or a festive meal. Bringing together delicious flavors and an attractive presentation, it is sure to quickly become one of your favorite recipes. Try it and enjoy every bite!