Thighs under the lid

Chicken Thighs Under a Lid – a simple and delicious recipe for a quick and tasty dinner

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Chicken thighs under a lid are an excellent choice for a tasty and nutritious meal, perfect for the whole family. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with various flavors and ingredients. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin, for a richer taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter (or olive oil if you prefer a healthier option)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (chopped or left whole, depending on your preference)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (or smoked for a more intense flavor)
- Salt (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Don't forget to massage the spices into the skin to enhance the flavors.

2. Heating the pan: In a pot or deep skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. If you choose olive oil, use a similar amount. It's important not to burn the butter, so watch the temperature.

3. Browning the thighs: Once the butter is melted, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them brown for about 5-7 minutes, until the skin becomes golden and crispy. This step is essential for achieving a special texture.

4. Adding the garlic: After the thighs are browned, add the garlic. This will give your dish an irresistible aroma. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

5. Covering with a lid: Once the garlic and thighs are ready, add water to the pot (about 200 ml) and cover with a heat-resistant lid. The water will help cook the thighs evenly, ensuring they remain juicy.

6. Cooking on low heat: Reduce the temperature to the lowest setting and let the thighs simmer for 30-35 minutes. This way, the flavors will intensify, and the meat will become tender and full of flavor.

7. Serving: Once the thighs are cooked, you can serve them alongside steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes. A fresh green salad will perfectly complement the meal. For an extra touch of flavor, add a few slices of lemon or fresh herbs on top.

Variation suggestion: If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding a few slices of lemon or orange to the pot for a pleasant citrus aroma. You can also replace the garlic with onion or add a handful of olives in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a Mediterranean taste.

These chicken thighs under a lid are very versatile and can be adapted to your preferences. Whether you choose to serve them plain or with elaborate side dishes, they are sure to bring joy and flavor to every meal. Enjoy your meal!