Oven-baked chicken with lemon and bulgur

Oven-baked chicken with lemon and bulgur – a delicious, simple recipe full of flavors that transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary celebration. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, offering a savory mix of fresh and healthy ingredients. Let’s discover together how to prepare this main dish, step by step.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4-5 servings

Ingredients:
- 4-5 chicken thighs, skinless
- 1 lemon (preferably organic)
- 1 cup of bulgur
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A bunch of mint (fresh or dried)
- 150 ml of dry white wine
- 5-6 garlic cloves
- A large bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon of hot paprika

Brief History:
Oven-baked chicken with lemon is a recipe that blends old culinary traditions, rooted in simple yet thoughtfully crafted dishes. The lemon adds a pleasant acidity that helps tenderize the meat, while the bulgur adds a note of texture and flavor. This recipe is not only tasty but also a nutritious option, rich in protein and fiber.

Recipe Preparation:

1. Preparing the Chicken Thighs:
Start by cleaning the chicken thighs if they are not already skinless. Cut them in half to allow heat to penetrate better and reduce cooking time. Rinse them well under cold running water and let them drain.

2. Assembling the Ingredients:
In a baking dish, add the chicken thighs. Cut the lemon into cubes or slices and add it over the meat. Add the garlic cut in half to release its strong and pleasant aroma. Sprinkle salt, pepper, mint (either fresh or dried), and drizzle everything with olive oil.

3. Adding the Wine:
Pour the dry white wine into the dish. This will not only help tenderize the meat but also add an elegant note of flavor. If you prefer a more intense taste, you can opt for a more aromatic white wine.

4. Baking the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the dish inside. Let the chicken bake for 30-35 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and the meat is well cooked. You can check if it’s fully cooked using a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75 degrees Celsius.

5. Preparing the Bulgur:
While the chicken is baking, take care of the bulgur. Place it in a bowl and cover it with hot water. Let it soak for 30 minutes. If you notice that the bulgur absorbs all the water, add a little more hot water.

6. Finalizing the Dish:
Once the chicken is browned, remove the dish from the oven. Add the bulgur to the dish, stirring gently to combine the ingredients. Turn off the oven and put the dish back in, letting everything sit for 15-20 minutes. This step allows the bulgur to absorb the delicious flavors from the dish.

7. Serving:
Before serving, finely chop the parsley and generously sprinkle it over the dish. This will not only add a color contrast but also a fresh and refreshing aroma.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Lemons: It’s important to use organic lemons or wash them well to remove wax from the peel. This will prevent contamination of the dish.
- Dish Variation: You can replace the bulgur with rice, quinoa, or even couscous, depending on your preferences.
- Enhancing Flavors: For an even more intense flavor, add some green or black olives to the dish before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken without bones? Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you will need to adjust the baking time as they cook faster.
- What white wine should I choose? Choose a dry wine with fruity notes that complements the flavors of the dish.
- Is this recipe healthy? Yes, chicken is an excellent source of protein, and bulgur is rich in fiber and nutrients.

Recommended Pairings:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal, providing a delightful culinary experience.

Personal Note:
This recipe is one of my favorites for weekend meals when I want to impress without too much effort. The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish has a beautiful presentation, making it ideal for special occasions.

So, get ready to enjoy a delicious oven-baked chicken with lemon and bulgur, a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also transform every meal into a celebration of flavors! Bon appétit!