Tuscan chicken thighs

Tuscan chicken thighs: a savory and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Tuscan chicken thighs are an excellent choice for a delicious dinner, full of flavors and textures. This recipe combines culinary tradition with fresh ingredients, offering a dish that will delight any family meal or gathering with friends. The chicken rolls, filled with a flavorful sauce and seasoned with herbs, are easy to make and will bring a touch of refinement to your kitchen.

The history of the recipe

Over time, chicken thighs have been appreciated in various cultures due to their versatility. They can be cooked in countless ways, but the combination with rich sauces and aromatic herbs gives them a special touch. In the past, preparing a chicken meal was often associated with holidays or special occasions, and recipes were passed down from generation to generation. Tuscan chicken thighs are a modern reinterpretation of these traditions, highlighting fresh ingredients and unforgettable flavors.

Necessary ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1-2 ripe tomatoes, preferably from the garden
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh basil, finely chopped
- A handful of dried oregano
- A handful of fresh sage, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Useful tips for ingredients

- Choose quality chicken thighs, preferably from local farms, to enjoy a richer taste.
- Fresh tomatoes are essential for adding juiciness and flavor to the sauce. If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomatoes, but make sure they are of good quality.
- Extra virgin olive oil is preferred to add a fruity and aromatic note. Avoid refined oils, which do not provide the same depth of flavor.

Step by step: Preparing Tuscan chicken thighs

1. Cleaning and preparing the thighs: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs, removing the skin and bone if you don’t want them in the dish. Rinse them under cold water and let them drain well.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, grate the tomatoes with a fine grater to obtain a puree. Add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic. Pour in a few drops of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well.

3. Preparing the thighs for filling: Use a kitchen mallet to gently pound the chicken thighs, making them thinner and easier to roll. This step will help achieve a more tender texture.

4. Filling the thighs: Using the prepared sauce, spread each piece of chicken thigh on both sides. Make sure the sauce is evenly distributed. Sprinkle basil, oregano, and sage on each thigh, adding extra flavor.

5. Rolling the thighs: Roll each thigh to form a tight roll. Secure the rolls with toothpicks so that the filling does not spill out during cooking.

6. Preparing for the oven: In a baking dish, pour a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preferences. Carefully place the chicken rolls in the dish and pour the remaining sauce on top. Season with additional herbs if desired.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes until the thighs become golden and crispy.

8. Serving: Once the rolls are ready, take them out of the oven and place them on a platter. You can serve them with mashed potatoes or other preferred sides, such as a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Serving suggestions and variations

If you want to bring a touch of freshness to the plate, you can add a rocket salad with cherry tomatoes and feta cheese next to the Tuscan chicken thighs. This combination will perfectly contrast with the rich flavors of the dish.

Another interesting option would be to replace the chicken thighs with chicken breast or even turkey meat for a lighter dish.

To make the meal even more special, pair the rolls with a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preferences.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with turkey meat or even pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a few finely chopped hot peppers to the sauce and mix well.

3. Is this recipe suitable for diets?
Chicken thighs are a good source of protein. If you use a little oil and control the portions, this can be a healthy choice.

4. How long can I keep the rolls in the fridge?
The cooked rolls can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken thighs are rich in protein, essential for the development and repair of tissues, and fresh herbs add not only fantastic flavor but also antioxidants that can contribute to maintaining health. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, while olive oil provides healthy fats for the heart.

Therefore, Tuscan chicken thighs are not only a delicious dish but also a healthy option for everyday meals. Try this recipe and enjoy every bite!