Oven-baked chicken thighs with wine and garlic

Chicken Thighs with Wine and Garlic Baked in the Oven

I propose a delicious recipe that combines the intense flavors of wine with the tenderness of chicken meat and the unmistakable aroma of garlic. Chicken thighs with wine and garlic baked in the oven are an excellent option for a family dinner or a festive meal, having the advantage of being tender, tasty, and very easy to prepare.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 chicken thighs (preferably with bone and skin to maintain juiciness)
- 4 large garlic cloves
- 200 ml white wine (choose a quality wine, as its aroma will influence the final taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon paprika (preferably sweet, but you can also use a spicy one if you like)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few sprigs of fresh thyme)
- salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the thighs: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. It’s a good idea to remove excess fat, but do not remove the skin, as it helps keep the meat juicy. Cut the thighs in half if you want smaller portions. Rinse them under cold water and let them drain well.

2. Seasoning the thighs: In a large bowl, season the thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Make sure each piece is well coated with spices. These will add depth of flavor and make the meat tastier.

3. Preparing the baking dish: Take a baking dish and place the chicken thighs in it, skin side up. Pour the white wine evenly over them, so that a flavorful sauce forms. Add the bay leaf, which will enrich the sauce with a subtle aroma.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let the thighs bake for about an hour. It’s important to baste them occasionally with the sauce formed in the dish to keep them moist and help them brown evenly.

5. Adding the garlic: About 15 minutes before removing the thighs from the oven, peel and slice the garlic cloves thinly. Add them to the dish, gently mixing so that they combine with the sauce. The garlic will brown and add an irresistible aroma to the dish.

6. Serving: Once the thighs are browned and well cooked, remove the dish from the oven. You can serve the thighs hot, alongside your favorite side dish. I recommend mashed potatoes or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Final notes: This recipe is simple but very versatile. You can experiment with different herbs or spices, such as rosemary or oregano, to give it a personal touch. You can also replace the white wine with red wine for a bolder flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. White wine, consumed in moderation, can contribute to heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, but the baking time will be shorter, so I advise you to check the meat more often to avoid drying it out.
- What type of wine is most suitable? A dry white wine is ideal, but you can also use a sweet wine if you want a more complex flavor.
- What side dishes pair best? Roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables are excellent choices.

This recipe is not only easy to make, but it will also bring a touch of flavor to your kitchen. I wish you success and bon appétit!