Bacon-wrapped chicken thighs

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs: A Sophisticated and Delicious Recipe

Today, I will present to you a recipe that may seem sophisticated, but is extremely simple to make: bacon-wrapped chicken thighs. This recipe will not only impress with its appearance but will also provide an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses. Let's embark on this culinary adventure, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 65 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 100 g wild mushrooms (or button mushrooms if you don't have access to wild ones)
- 2 tablespoons tomato coulis (I highly recommend Reflets de France brand)
- 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
- A sprig of fresh rosemary
- 4-6 thin strips of bacon
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of white wine

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Start by deboning the chicken thighs (if you haven't purchased them deboned). Remove the skin to reduce cholesterol intake. This step is essential for achieving juicy and healthy meat.

2. Creating the filling:
In a bowl, combine the finely chopped mushrooms, garlic, and minced rosemary. The fresh aroma of rosemary will add a wonderful flavor to the dish. If you wish, you can also add a few slices of cheese, but I recommend saving it for the end to avoid weighing down the mixture.

3. Filling the thighs:
On each chicken thigh, add a tablespoon of tomato coulis. This concentrated sauce will enhance the flavor of the chicken. Evenly sprinkle the mushroom and garlic mixture over the tomatoes. Roll each thigh up to form a roulade.

4. Wrapping with bacon:
Place the strips of bacon over each roulade, making sure they are well wrapped. Using thin strips of bacon will not only reduce the amount of fatty meat but will also provide a crispy, flavorful crust.

5. Preparing for the oven:
Stand the roulades upright in a ceramic dish. You can place celery cubes under them for a stable support. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, the cup of water, and the cup of white wine. These liquids will help cook the meat evenly and maintain its juiciness.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the lid and continue baking for another 15 minutes, so that the bacon becomes crispy and golden.

7. Serving:
Once the roulades are ready, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. They should be served warm, accompanied by a side of steamed potatoes garnished with freshly chopped parsley. This combination of textures and flavors will turn the meal into a memorable culinary experience.

Useful tips:

- About bacon: If you prefer a lighter option, you can use turkey bacon, which has a lower fat content.
- Mushrooms: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms based on your preferences. Shiitake or portobello mushrooms add extra flavor.
- Variations: Add spices like paprika or chili for a spicier taste. You can also add other herbs like basil or thyme.

Nutritional benefits:

This bacon-wrapped chicken thigh recipe is rich in protein, thanks to the chicken, and contains antioxidants from the tomatoes and mushrooms. Additionally, rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe also works with pork or turkey meat.

2. How can I make the recipe faster?
You can use pre-cooked or smoked chicken thighs and focus on the filling.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or rosé is ideal, but you can also opt for fresh lemonade for a pleasant contrast.

I hope this bacon-wrapped chicken thigh recipe delights you and brings joy to your table. Enjoy your meal!