Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with New Potatoes

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with New Potatoes: A Delicious Rustic Delight

What could be more comforting than a meal cooked with love, filling the house with enticing aromas and bringing happiness to the faces of loved ones? Oven-baked chicken thighs with new potatoes are a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. These humble ingredients transform into a truly special dinner that will impress even the most discerning foodies.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Servings: 4

Magical Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (ideally choose free-range chicken thighs for a more intense flavor)
- 10 new potatoes (choose smaller ones for even baking and a crunchy texture)
- 3 green onions (adds a fresh, aromatic note)
- 1 green garlic stalk (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1 tomato (make sure it’s ripe to add juiciness)
- Spices to taste (salt, pepper, paprika, rosemary, oregano - the combinations are endless!)

A Short Story:
Oven-baked chicken thighs with potatoes are a traditional recipe passed down through generations. This cooking method allows the meat to tenderize and absorb the flavors of the surrounding ingredients, while the potatoes become soft and flavorful. It’s a comforting meal that evokes family memories and moments spent around the table.

Step by Step:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Remove any feathers or impurities. Make sure to let the thighs drain well before using them. This step is crucial for achieving a nice crust in the oven.

2. Wash and Cut the Potatoes:
While the thighs drain, wash the new potatoes under running water. It’s important to clean them well since we will bake them with the skin on. Cut them lengthwise into halves or quarters, depending on their size – ideally, they should be of uniform size for even baking.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:
Slice the green onions into fine rounds, including the green part, and chop the green garlic. Cut the tomato into rounds. These vegetables not only add flavor but also color to the dish, making it even more appealing.

4. Assemble the Baking Tray:
In a baking tray, arrange the chicken thighs evenly. Place the cut potatoes on top. Add the tomato rounds and sprinkle with the green onions and chopped garlic. Now it’s time to season the dish. Add salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. A great combination would be smoked paprika and rosemary, which provides a wonderful flavor.

5. The Oven:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Once the temperature is reached, place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes. It’s important to check the dish after 30 minutes – the thighs should be browned, and the potatoes should be soft. If necessary, you can turn them a bit to achieve even browning.

6. Serving:
When the dish is ready, take the tray out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time will help the juices redistribute in the meat, keeping it juicy and tender. Serve the chicken thighs with the potatoes and vegetables directly from the tray for a rustic look. A fresh green salad on the side will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can marinate the thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices a few hours before cooking. This will add depth of flavor and make the meat even more tender.
- Instead of tomato, you can use bell pepper or zucchini to add a different note to the dish.
- If you have time, you can also roast a few whole garlic cloves in their skins, which will turn into a caramelized delicacy that can be served alongside.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but the baking time will be significantly reduced.
- What other side dishes can I combine with this dish? Basmati rice or quinoa are excellent choices, and a summer salad would add freshness.
- How can I make the recipe more diet-friendly? You can reduce the amount of oil and use more vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe offers a good balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Each serving contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and B vitamins, while new potatoes provide fiber and essential vitamins.

Oven-baked chicken thighs with new potatoes are not just a meal but a cooking experience that will connect you with culinary traditions and loved ones. Try this recipe, and you will discover how simple it can be to bring joy to the plate. Enjoy!