Oven-baked chicken with quinces

Delicious Oven-Baked Chicken with Quince and Potatoes

If you are looking for a recipe that brings a touch of magic to your kitchen, you have come to the right place! Oven-baked chicken with quince is a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and colors that will delight both family and friends. This simple and quick recipe is an excellent opportunity to use quinces, a often underestimated fruit, but full of character. Quinces are known for their distinctive aroma and nutritional benefits, providing a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 chicken thighs (or any other preferred chicken part)
- 2 large quinces
- 3 medium-sized potatoes (about one potato per person)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe history:
This recipe combines culinary traditions from various cultures, where oven-baked chicken is a staple dish associated with celebrations and family gatherings. Quinces, with their sweet and sour flavor, have been used for centuries in various dishes, from jams and pies to meat combinations. Thus, this dish becomes not just a meal but also a delicious story filled with memories.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken thighs well. Personally, I like to soak them in cold water with a little baking soda for 15 minutes to clean and tenderize them. After washing, drain them well.

2. Marinating the meat: In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, and ginger powder. This mixture will add a delicious flavor and help caramelize the meat. Rub the chicken thighs on all sides with this mixture and let them marinate for 15-30 minutes. If you have time, you can let the meat marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge for an even more intense flavor.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the potatoes and, if they are medium-sized, you can leave them whole. If they are larger, cut them in half or quarters. Wash the quinces, slice them about 2 cm thick, and remove the seeds and hard core.

4. Browning the meat: In a heated skillet, add 1 tablespoon of oil and brown the chicken thighs on all sides to achieve a nice crust. Be careful not to burn them, just let them get golden. This step will enhance the flavor and enrich the dish.

5. Assembling the dish: In a non-stick baking tray, place the potatoes around the edges and put the chicken thighs in the center. Then, arrange the quince slices on top of the meat. They will add a sweet taste and a delicious aroma to the dish. Pour the oil from the skillet over the dish to not waste any drop of flavor.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is well cooked and the potatoes are tender. If you have larger potatoes, make sure to cut them so they cook at the same time as the meat.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish it with a few fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Personal tip: Add a fresh touch to your dish by placing a few slices of lemon or orange in the tray during baking. They will add a citrus flavor and an unmistakable aroma.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or beef, but the baking time may change depending on the type of meat.

2. Can quinces be replaced?
If you don’t have quinces, you can use apples or pears, but the taste will be different. Quinces bring a perfect balance between sweet and sour.

3. What side dish is recommended?
This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and quinces are rich in vitamin C and fiber. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, providing a good supply of essential nutrients.

So, get ready to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner that will bring the whole family to the table. Oven-baked chicken with quince and potatoes is a recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home. Savor every bite and remember to enjoy the cooking moment - it is just as important as the final result!