Chicken with oven vegetables

Oven-Baked Chicken with Vegetables - a Tasty and Comforting Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a simple and delicious dish that brings the aroma of comfort home? Oven-baked chicken with vegetables is a recipe that will not only satisfy your cravings but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This dish is perfect for family meals, and each bite will remind you of the warm moments spent together.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Oven-baked chicken with vegetables has deep roots in culinary traditions, being a popular choice in many cultures. Baking allows the ingredients to blend harmoniously, intensifying the flavors and resulting in a delicious and comforting dish. This simple recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family adding a personal touch, making it unique.

Ingredients

- 1 kg chicken thighs (or a whole chicken, cut into pieces)
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 white onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 zucchini (optional, for an extra touch of freshness)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 100 ml sunflower oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil

Necessary Utensils

- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl

Step by Step - Preparing the Recipe

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs thoroughly under cold running water. Then, in a bowl, season them with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and dried basil. Let them marinate for a few minutes to absorb the spices' aromas.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: Peel the potatoes, carrots, and zucchini (if you choose to use it). Cut the potatoes into medium cubes, the carrots into rounds, and the onion into thin slices. The zucchini can be cut into cubes or rounds, depending on your preference.

3. Mixing the Vegetables: In the baking tray, lay down aluminum foil to facilitate later cleaning. Add all the prepared vegetables, pour the sunflower oil, and sprinkle a bit of pepper. It's important not to add salt at this stage, as the potatoes will harden. Use your hands to mix the vegetables well, ensuring they are evenly coated with oil.

4. Placing the Chicken: Once the vegetables are well mixed, place the chicken thighs on top, making sure they are evenly distributed. Cover the tray with aluminum foil to retain moisture and help the meat tenderize.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 1 hour - 1 hour and 15 minutes. It's good to check occasionally if the vegetables are cooked. You can do this by piercing the potatoes with a knife; if they pierce easily, they are done.

6. Finishing the Dish: After the baking time has expired, remove the aluminum foil and let the dish stay in the oven for another 15 minutes. This step will help the skin of the chicken become crispy and golden.

7. Serving: Once the chicken is ready, take the tray out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the dish warm, alongside a fresh salad or a side of rice, for a delicious contrast.

Useful Tips

- Ingredient Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers, cauliflower, or mushrooms, depending on the season and preferences. You can also use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Marinating the Meat: If you have time, marinate the chicken a day in advance using yogurt or lemon to make it more tender.
- Retaining Moisture: If you notice that the chicken is drying out, you can drizzle a little white wine or water during baking to maintain moisture.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. The chicken provides quality protein, while the vegetables, rich in vitamins and minerals, add essential fiber to your diet. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.
- How do I store leftovers? The dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in airtight containers. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.
- Can it be frozen? Yes, the chicken with vegetables can be frozen, but I recommend consuming it fresh to enjoy the best flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a yogurt sauce with garlic and dill or a pickled cabbage salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade will perfectly complement the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! The oven-baked chicken with vegetables awaits you to discover it, and its aroma will fill your home with warmth and good cheer. Enjoy every bite and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!