Bacon-wrapped meatloaf with roasted vegetable side dish

Chicken thighs wrapped in bacon with roasted vegetable side

When it comes to a dinner that impresses without consuming too much time, chicken thighs wrapped in bacon with a side of roasted vegetables are the perfect choice. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken meat with the rich flavor of bacon and the freshness of vegetables, creating a delicious dish that will delight both family and friends. Moreover, it is a simple recipe that requires minimal effort but will have a maximum impact on your table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 2 chicken thighs (preferably, upper thighs for more juiciness)
- 150 g bacon (choose quality bacon with a higher meat content)
- 1 zucchini
- 5 champignon mushrooms
- ½ red bell pepper
- ½ green bell pepper
- ½ yellow bell pepper
- 4 garlic cloves
- 4 fresh sage leaves (or 1 teaspoon of dried sage)
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary)
- 5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (opt for a high-quality oil)
- Salt (optional)
- Freshly ground pepper

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Start by cutting the chicken thighs in half. Remove the skin if you prefer a lighter dish. Score each piece of meat in a few places to allow the spices to penetrate better. Sprinkle a dash of freshly ground pepper, being careful not to add salt, as the bacon is salty enough.

2. Wrapping in bacon:
Each piece of thigh will be wrapped in a slice of bacon. This will not only add a savory flavor but will keep the meat juicy during baking. Make sure the bacon is tightly wrapped to adhere to the meat during cooking.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Wash the vegetables well. Cut the zucchini into large cubes and the mushrooms in half. The bell peppers can be cut into large pieces to maintain their crunchy texture. These vegetables add not only a vibrant appearance but also a healthy intake of nutrients.

4. Assembling the dish:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. In a baking dish, add 5 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs and the cut vegetables. Drizzle everything with the remaining olive oil and add the sage leaves, the rosemary sprig, pepper, and the garlic cloves, slightly crushed with the knife blade to release the flavors.

5. Baking:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and leave it in the oven for another 15 minutes, or until the bacon is golden and crispy. This cooking technique helps retain the juices from the meat and flavor the vegetables.

6. Serving:
Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender meat. You can serve the thighs alongside the roasted vegetables, and for an extra flavor boost, drizzle everything with a bit of freshly squeezed lemon juice. It’s delicious!

Chef's tip:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a few slices of red onion or a carrot cut into sticks. These ingredients will not only bring taste but also a palette of colors to the plate. Also, feel free to experiment with various herbs like thyme or oregano, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken meat, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber for a balanced diet. Bacon adds a note of healthy fats, which, when consumed in moderation, contribute to a varied diet.

Ideal pairings:
Chicken thighs wrapped in bacon pair perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a fruit cocktail. Additionally, you can accompany this dish with a fresh green salad or a side of boiled potatoes. If you prefer a lighter option, you can opt for a quinoa salad, which will add extra protein and complement the meal perfectly.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted with chicken breast or even pork, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I replace the bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with marinated tofu or a mix of roasted vegetables for a savory taste.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
It is recommended to use fresh vegetables for the best results, but frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative, especially if you don’t have fresh ingredients on hand.

4. How can I adapt the recipe for a ketogenic diet?
This recipe is already friendly to the ketogenic diet due to its high fat and protein content, but you can omit the vegetables or replace them with low-carb options like cauliflower or Brussels sprouts.

In conclusion, chicken thighs wrapped in bacon with roasted vegetable side are an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying dinner. With a combination of delicious flavors and simple preparation, this recipe will bring joy in every bite. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the moments spent together at the table! Enjoy your meal!