Chicken with new potatoes in the oven

Oven-Baked Chicken with New Potatoes

The whole world has cooked chicken in the oven throughout the centuries, and each culture adds a unique touch to the recipe. This oven-baked chicken with new potatoes is one of those dishes that combines simplicity with flavor, making it ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion. The new potatoes, with their creamy texture, pair perfectly with the juicy chicken, and the flavors of garlic and spices create a feast for the senses. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 70-80 minutes
Total time: 90-95 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs
- 1.5 kg new potatoes
- 2 green onions
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 4 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 bay leaf
- 1.5 cups water

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water, then cut them in half for even cooking. The new potatoes should be peeled, but you can also leave them unpeeled if you prefer a more rustic texture. Wash them well and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size.

2. Onions and tomatoes: Wash the green onions and slice them thinly. Wash and slice the tomatoes into rounds, making sure to choose well-ripened tomatoes to add a sweet flavor to the dish.

3. Garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and crush them with a pestle or knife to release their flavors. Garlic will add a savory note to the dish.

4. Spice mixture: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried basil. Add the crushed garlic and mix well until you get a smooth paste.

5. Coating the thighs: Using a cooking brush or your hands, coat the chicken thighs with the mixture, ensuring they are well covered. This step is essential for adding flavor to the meat.

6. Preparing the baking dish: Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add extra flavor. Place the chicken thighs in the dish, leaving a little space between them. Add the peeled potatoes between the chicken thighs, seasoning them with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.

7. Onions and tomatoes: Sprinkle the sliced green onions and tomato rounds over the chicken and potatoes. Use them generously, as they will add freshness and delicious flavor to the dish.

8. Adding bay leaves: Tear the bay leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle them over the ingredients. They will infuse the dish with a subtle aroma.

9. Adding water: Pour the 1.5 cups of water into the dish, being careful not to splash the ingredients. This will help keep the chicken juicy during baking.

10. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let the dish bake for 60-70 minutes. The covering helps retain moisture.

11. Finishing: Once the baking time is up, remove the aluminum foil and increase the temperature by 10-15°C to achieve a golden crust on the chicken thighs. Leave in the oven for another 10 minutes until everything is golden and appetizing.

12. Serving: Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the chicken with the potatoes and vegetables, and for an extra touch of flavor, you can add a fresh salad on the side.

Useful tips:

- If you want a lighter option, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs, but the baking time will be shorter.
- Add seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
- You can use fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, instead of basil for a different flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, it is possible, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.

2. How can I check if the chicken is cooked properly?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should be at least 75°C.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients a day ahead and keep them in the refrigerator. Baking can then be done an hour before serving.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe for chicken with new potatoes is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken provides essential nutrients, while new potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber. Garlic offers cardiovascular benefits, and the vegetables contribute to your daily vitamin intake.

Serving suggestions:

This oven-baked chicken with new potatoes pairs perfectly with a crunchy green salad or a yogurt sauce with dill. A bottle of chilled white wine or freshly made lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

I wish you great success in preparing this delicious oven-baked chicken with new potatoes! It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will delight everyone. Enjoy your meal!