Oven-baked chicken thighs

Oven-baked chicken thighs with vegetables: A simple and tasty recipe for family meals

I invite you to discover a classic and comforting recipe: oven-baked chicken thighs, cooked alongside fresh vegetables. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also offers a delicious combination of flavors that will delight all your loved ones. We will prepare a meal that will bring charm to the Sunday table with its rustic appeal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Required ingredients:

- 3-4 chicken thighs
- 10 potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 3 onions
- 3-4 bell peppers (or other preferred vegetables)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste

A touch of history

Oven-baked chicken thighs are an iconic dish, often associated with family meals. This recipe is based on a culinary tradition that emphasizes slow cooking, allowing the flavors to gradually unfold. It is a perfect choice for Sunday meals when the family gathers around the table, and the joy of cooking becomes a ritual.

Recipe preparation

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into large pieces so they cook evenly. The carrots and parsley root can be sliced into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. Chop the onions into julienne or quarters, and slice the bell peppers into thick pieces.

Step 2: Season the vegetables
Place all the cut vegetables in a large bowl. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then add the olive oil. Mix well so that each piece is coated with spices and oil. This step is essential to ensure the vegetables have a delicious flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the dish
In a large baking dish, add the seasoned vegetables. Pour in 1/2 cup of water and, if desired, a few tablespoons of tomato juice - this will add a touch of acidity and make the dish more flavorful. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables, allowing the juices from the meat to flavor them during baking.

Step 4: Baking
Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and allow the vegetables to cook evenly. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 45-50 minutes.

Step 5: Brown the meat
After this time, remove the aluminum foil and increase the oven temperature to 200°C (400°F). Let the dish bake for another 20-25 minutes until the chicken thighs become golden and crispy. This step is key to achieving a delicious crust.

Serving

Oven-baked chicken thighs are served hot, directly from the dish, alongside the roasted vegetables, which will also be delicious and flavorful. This dish can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or even mashed potatoes for a complete culinary experience.

Useful tips

1. Choose quality meat - Opt for chicken thighs from local farmers or organic sources to enjoy a more intense flavor and juicier meat.
2. Vary the vegetables - You can add zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower, depending on the season and your preferences.
3. Marinate the meat - If you want an even more intense flavor, you can marinate the chicken thighs a few hours beforehand, using olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and fiber. Approximately one serving of chicken thighs with vegetables contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and vegetables used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can also be adapted for pork or turkey, but the baking time will vary.

2. What can I do if I don't have aluminum foil?
If you don't have aluminum foil, you can use an oven-safe lid or cover the dish with another heat-resistant container.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

Beverage recommendations

This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or freshly made lemonade. Additionally, a light beer can complement the flavors of the dish very well.

Personal note

This oven-baked chicken thigh recipe is one of my favorites due to its simplicity and wonderful taste. I fondly remember family meals when everyone gathered around the table, and the aroma of roasted vegetables and browned meat filled our home. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your culinary moments with your loved ones. You might discover that your dish will become a family tradition!