Chicken thighs stuffed with mushrooms

Stuffed chicken thighs with mushrooms - A savory delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Are you dreaming of a delicious meal that combines the rich flavors of mushrooms with the juiciness of chicken? Then, the recipe for stuffed chicken thighs with mushrooms is the perfect choice! This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an opportunity to impress your family or friends with your culinary skills.

The history of the recipe is fascinating, as meat fillings have been prepared throughout the centuries, evolving according to the available ingredients and local culinary traditions. Stuffed chicken thighs with mushrooms are a classic combination, bringing together simple ingredients to create a sophisticated and tasty dish.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 large whole chicken thighs
- 10 champignon mushrooms (4 whole and 6 chopped)
- 2 green onions
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 100 ml tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 garlic cloves

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. Carefully detach the skin from the thighs, but do not remove it completely - this will cover the filling and help retain the juiciness of the meat during baking. Season the thighs with salt and pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.

2. Preparing the filling: Chop the green onions finely and sauté them in a pan with 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until they become translucent. Add the chopped mushrooms (6 in total) and sauté them together with the onions for about 10 minutes, until they become tender and release their aroma.

3. Adding the tomato paste: Once the mushrooms are cooked, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and the chopped green parsley. Mix the composition well and leave it on the heat for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is homogenized. This is the perfect time to taste the filling and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

4. Filling the thighs: Using a spoon, fill the chicken thighs with the mushroom mixture, being careful not to overfill them. Once filled, cover them with the skin you detached earlier to seal the filling and prevent the meat from drying out.

5. Preparing for baking: Place the stuffed thighs in a baking dish. Use the remaining 4 whole mushrooms and place them around the thighs. Mix 4 tablespoons of tomato paste with a little water and pour this mixture over the chicken thighs. Sprinkle the chopped garlic and season again with salt and pepper, to taste.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the thighs bake for about an hour, until they become golden and tender. You can check if they are cooked using a meat thermometer - the internal temperature should be around 75°C.

7. Serving: Once the thighs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They pair perfectly with side dishes such as rice or mashed potatoes to complete the meal. You can also add a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.

Practical tips:
- Choose chicken thighs with a higher amount of meat for a juicier result.
- If you wish, you can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean taste.
- Instead of champignon mushrooms, you can experiment with shiitake or portobello mushrooms to add a deeper flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and mushrooms bring a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and antioxidants. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious!

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, but make sure the filling won't spill out during baking.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Absolutely! You can fill the thighs a few hours before baking, and the flavor will become more intense.
- What other side dishes pair well? Rice is excellent, but steamed vegetables or a summer salad will also complement the main dish perfectly.

This recipe for stuffed chicken thighs with mushrooms is not only simple but also incredibly delicious! It will bring smiles to the table and turn any dinner into a memorable experience. Don't hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy every bite!