Peas with chicken

Delicious Chicken with Peas and Bacon Recipe

Do you want a recipe that brings the enticing flavors of a family meal straight to your table? Chicken with peas and bacon is the perfect choice! This recipe combines the juiciness of the chicken, the rich flavor of the bacon, and the sweetness of the peas, offering a savory dish that will delight everyone. It is easy to prepare, and the result will turn any ordinary dinner into a memorable experience.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for added flavor)
- 7-8 thin slices of bacon
- About 800 g green peas (can be fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 300 g cherry tomatoes (whole or halved)
- 1/2 cup tomato juice
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- Olive oil (for cooking)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Chicken
Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities. Then, place the chicken thighs in a pot of cold water and bring to a boil. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes or until the meat is firm to the touch but not fully cooked. It is important not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

2. Wrapping in Bacon
Once the thighs have cooled slightly, take each piece of meat and wrap it with a slice of bacon. This not only adds a savory flavor but also helps to keep the chicken juicy.

3. Preparing the Oven Packet
Take a baking tray and lay out a piece of aluminum foil that is twice as long as the tray. Place the bacon-wrapped thighs on the foil, drizzle with olive oil, and then sprinkle with salt and freshly ground pepper. Wrap them tightly in the foil to form a compact packet that will retain all the flavor and juiciness during baking.

4. Initial Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes. This will allow the bacon to become crispy and the chicken to absorb delicious flavors.

5. Cooking the Peas
While the chicken is baking, finely chop the onion. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil and add the onion. Sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the peas and enough water to cover them. Cook over medium heat until the peas are tender and the water has reduced significantly.

6. Combining the Ingredients
Once the chicken is ready, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Open the foil carefully, being cautious not to burn yourself. Take out the thighs and set them aside. In the remaining tray, add the cooked peas, cherry tomatoes, tomato juice, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.

7. Final Baking
Place the chicken thighs back on top of the pea mixture in the tray. Cover everything again with aluminum foil and return it to the oven for another 30 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the chicken will become extremely tasty.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Chicken: Bone-in thighs tend to be juicier than boneless ones, so don't hesitate to choose them.
- Peas: If using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.
- Vegetarian Option: You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and bacon with slices of smoked tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Serving: Serve this dish warm, alongside a fresh green salad for a crunchy contrast. Fresh bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce created.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe offers a balance between healthy proteins from the chicken, fibers from the peas, and antioxidants from the tomatoes. One serving contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. It is a nourishing option, full of essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with pork or turkey for different flavors.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, you can prepare the packet a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Baking will take a little longer in this case.
- Can it be frozen? It is recommended not to freeze this dish after baking, as the sauce may change the texture.

Conclusion
Chicken with peas and bacon is a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. The flavors blend perfectly, and the dish is not only tasty but also filling. Don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe. Enjoy your meal!