Oven-baked chicken thighs with tomatoes

Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Tomatoes

When we want to indulge in a delicious meal that is a bit more sophisticated yet still simple to prepare, oven-baked chicken thighs with tomatoes prove to be the perfect choice. This recipe combines the rich flavors of chicken with the sweetness of tomatoes, creating a dish that will delight both family and guests. In addition to its delicious taste, this dish is also an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs (drumsticks)
- 1 head of garlic (preferably smaller but full of flavor)
- 1 green bell pepper (or hot, depending on preference)
- 100 g chopped tomatoes in their juice (or the juice from 3 medium tomatoes)
- Fresh or dried basil (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (or sunflower oil)

Preparing the chicken thighs:
1. Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. Make sure to remove excess skin and any fat to achieve a healthier dish.
2. Rinse the thighs under cold water and dry them well with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the spices adhere better to the meat.

Seasoning:
3. In a large bowl, season the thighs with salt, pepper, and basil. If using fresh basil, chop it finely to release its aroma. If you prefer dried basil, use a smaller amount as the flavor is more concentrated.

Arranging in the dish:
4. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish. Ensure they are arranged well without overlapping for even cooking.
5. Peel the head of garlic and separate it into cloves. You can leave the skin on as it will roast and add a delicate flavor to the dish. Scatter the garlic cloves among the thighs.
6. Slice the green bell pepper into thin rings and add it to the dish. This will provide a note of freshness and a slight spiciness.

Adding the tomatoes:
7. Pour the chopped tomatoes (or the juice from fresh tomatoes) over the thighs. These will help create a delicious sauce during baking.
8. Drizzle everything with a little olive oil. The oil will help brown the thighs and add a rich flavor.

Baking:
9. Cover the dish with a sheet of parchment paper. This will help retain moisture and make the thighs tender.
10. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the dish covered for about 20 minutes.
11. After this time, remove the parchment paper and let the thighs brown for another 20 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. It’s good to check them from time to time to ensure they don’t burn.

Serving:
12. Once the thighs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help redistribute the juices, making the meat juicier.
13. I recommend serving them alongside your favorite side dish. Personally, I love sautéed carrots and a bit of celery, but you can also opt for creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

Useful tips:
- If you have time, you can let the thighs marinate in the spices for a few hours or even overnight. This will intensify the flavors.
- Use seasonal tomatoes for a sweeter and more intense taste.
- You can also add other vegetables to the dish, such as onions, carrots, or zucchini, to create a more complex dish.

Nutritional information:
- A serving of chicken thighs with tomatoes contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.
- Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and tomatoes provide a significant amount of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but the baking time will be shorter. Check the meat after 25 minutes.
2. Can I replace the tomatoes with another ingredient? Yes, you can use tomato sauce or even soy sauce for an Asian twist.
3. How can I make the dish spicier? Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes.

This recipe for oven-baked chicken thighs with tomatoes is not only simple and quick but also extremely flavorful. Plus, it's a wonderful way to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your meals. Enjoy your meal!