Garlic chicken thighs

Garlic Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes

When it comes to dishes that bring comfort and flavor to the plate, few recipes can rival garlic chicken thighs with roasted potatoes. This simple yet exquisitely tasty recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, bringing with it culinary memories and moments of joy. Let’s venture into the world of flavors and textures, step by step, to achieve an absolutely delicious result!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs (or a whole chicken, cut into pieces)
- 1.5 kilograms of potatoes
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 5 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing and cleaning the chicken thighs, ensuring you remove any traces of skin or excess fat. If using a whole chicken, cut it into suitable pieces. This step is important to ensure that each piece will cook evenly.

2. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into larger pieces, about the size of a golf ball. This size will allow the potatoes to roast nicely and absorb the flavors from the oil and spices. Place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning.

3. Boiling the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large pot of water, add the bay leaves and a teaspoon of salt. Boil the chicken over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, skimming off impurities frequently. It is important to note that we do not want to cook the meat completely, just to remove the blood and prepare the chicken for the oven.

4. Preheating the oven: While the chicken is boiling, preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). This step will ensure even baking and help achieve a delicious crust.

5. Preparing the garlic paste: After removing the chicken thighs from the water, it’s time to deal with the garlic. Peel the garlic cloves and crush them well, mixing them with oil, salt, and pepper. Add the sweet paprika, hot paprika, allspice, and cumin. This paste will add an intense flavor and irresistible taste to the chicken.

6. Assembling the dish: In a baking dish, place the drained potatoes and cover them with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well to coat them evenly. Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes and pour the garlic paste over them, ensuring all pieces are well covered.

7. Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 40-50 minutes. It is important to turn the chicken thighs halfway through the baking time to achieve an even golden crust. In the end, the chicken should be tender and juicy, while the potatoes should be crispy and flavorful.

8. Serving: The garlic chicken thighs with potatoes are served hot, alongside fresh flatbreads and a crunchy green salad. The aroma of garlic and spices will turn every meal into a true culinary celebration.

Useful tips:
- Use olive oil for a richer flavor, but any other vegetable oil will work just as well.
- If you prefer a more intense garlic flavor, you can add more garlic cloves to the paste.
- You can experiment with other spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to add a personalized touch.
- Instead of potatoes, you can use vegetables like carrots or zucchini, which roast at the same time.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, being an excellent source of energy. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and benefits for the immune system. A serving of garlic chicken thighs with potatoes is estimated at about 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey thighs adapt very well to this recipe, having a similar cooking time.

- What side dish can accompany this dish?
A cabbage salad or a tomato salad with onions are excellent options that perfectly complement this dish.

- Can it be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can assemble everything and keep it in the fridge before baking. Make sure to let it reach room temperature before placing it in the oven.

In conclusion, garlic chicken thighs with roasted potatoes are not just a delicious recipe, but also an opportunity to bring family and friends together around the table. With every bite, you will bring a touch of tradition and comfort into your life. Don’t forget to share your culinary experiences and enjoy the magic of cooking!