Chicken thighs in a hazelnut crust

Chicken Thighs with Nut Crust Recipe

Are you dreaming of a delicious and comforting dinner that will impress family and friends? I invite you to discover the recipe for chicken thighs with a nut crust, a simple yet sophisticated dish that combines the flavors of nuts and the juiciness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family Sunday meal or a relaxing evening at home.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4

Your ingredients:
- 4 whole chicken thighs (preferably with skin, to achieve a crispy crust)
- 100 g nuts (you can use roasted salted nuts for an intense flavor or raw nuts for a more delicate note)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil, depending on your preference)
- 1 bag of Mexican vegetables (combine peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers for an explosion of color and texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step to success:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Start by washing the chicken thighs well. If you prefer smaller portions, you can cut each thigh in half. This will not only reduce cooking time but also allow the spices to penetrate the meat better.

2. Creating the nut crust:
In a blender or food processor, add the nuts and process them until you achieve a fine powder, but not so fine that it becomes a paste. It is essential to keep a slightly grainy texture to achieve a crispy crust. You can add a pinch of salt and a little pepper at this stage for a more intense flavor.

3. Seasoning and coating the thighs:
In a large bowl, add the chicken thighs, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. Then, take each thigh and dip it into the nut mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.

4. Preparing the baking tray:
In a baking tray, grease the bottom with a little oil and add a few tablespoons of water. This will help retain moisture during baking, ensuring that the thighs remain juicy.

5. Baking the thighs:
Place the thighs in the tray, skin side up, and put the tray in the preheated oven at 200°C. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until they become golden and crispy. You can check if they are cooked using a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75°C.

6. Preparing the side dish:
Meanwhile, in a separate pot, add the Mexican vegetables to boil with a little water and a pinch of salt. Boil for 5-7 minutes or until they become tender but crunchy. You can add a splash of olive oil and a little pepper for extra flavor.

7. Serving:
Once the thighs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Arrange the golden chicken thighs on a plate alongside the colorful Mexican vegetables. This combination not only looks good but also offers a palette of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a spicy version, you can add spices like paprika or chili flakes to the nut mixture.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken thighs with tofu fillets or large mushrooms, which can be treated the same way.
- The chicken thighs can also be marinated a few hours before cooking to intensify the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe for chicken thighs with nut crust is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken, and healthy fats, thanks to the nuts. Nuts contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and magnesium, which contribute to heart health and maintaining energy levels.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of nuts? Of course! Almonds or pistachios are also excellent for this crust.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a blonde beer can perfectly complement the flavors of this dish.
- How can I store leftovers? Chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain crispiness.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Put on your chef's clothes and let’s enjoy this delicious recipe for chicken thighs with nut crust. You can customize the recipe according to your preferences by adding various spices or side dishes. Enjoy your meal!