Chicken with tomatoes and garlic (ostropel)

Delicious Chicken Recipe with Tomatoes and Garlic (Ostropel)

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 2 generous servings

Who doesn't love a savory and comforting dish that can be on the lunch or dinner table? Chicken with tomatoes and garlic, also known as ostropel, is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for days when you want to enjoy traditional flavors.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 whole chicken thighs (upper and lower)
- 1 can of whole peeled tomatoes in their own juice (approximately 250 g)
- 80 ml sunflower oil or olive oil
- Optional: 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 head of garlic (preferably fresh)
- Half a glass of white wine (for a more complex flavor)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- A bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, pepper, and spices for chicken, to taste

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water, then dry them well with a paper towel. This will help you achieve a nice crust during frying. Season the thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite chicken spices.

2. Frying the chicken: In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and fry them for about 10 minutes until golden and crispy on all sides. Remove the thighs to a plate and set aside.

3. Preparing the sauce: In the same skillet, optionally add the flour and mix well, letting it brown slightly for 1-2 minutes. This step will help thicken the sauce but can be omitted if you prefer a thinner sauce.

4. Adding the tomatoes and garlic: Slice or crush the head of garlic, then add it to the skillet, followed by the can of tomatoes, including the juice. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

5. Deglazing with wine: Pour half a glass of white wine into the skillet, which will add a note of acidity and complexity to the sauce. Wait a few minutes for the alcohol to evaporate.

6. Returning the chicken: Place the chicken thighs back in the skillet, covering them with the tomato sauce. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover with a lid. Let simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes until the chicken is well cooked and tender. If the sauce reduces too much, you can add a little water.

7. Finishing the dish: With 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the chopped parsley and dill, which will add freshness and flavor.

8. Serving: The chicken with tomatoes and garlic is served hot, alongside a side of mashed potatoes or polenta, to complete your meals with a quick dessert of goodness. A slice of fresh bread is always a nice addition to soak up the delicious sauce.

Variation suggestion: You can try adding black olives or capers for an extra Mediterranean flavor or even some slices of roasted bell peppers for a richer taste.

This chicken recipe with tomatoes and garlic is not only simple but also an excellent choice for a family dinner or to impress guests. Remember, the secret to a perfect ostropel lies in fresh ingredients and the patience to let the flavors develop!