Chicken thighs in milk marinade

Chicken Thighs in Milk Marinade

When it comes to cooking, simple doesn’t always mean lacking in sophistication. The recipe for chicken thighs in milk marinade is perfect for those who desire a delicious, juicy dish with a subtle yet captivating flavor. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also provides an excellent opportunity to explore marinating techniques that enhance the texture and taste of the meat.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 24 hours
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 24 hours and 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (preferably bone-in for a more intense flavor)
- 500 ml milk (whole milk is ideal for a creamy marinade)
- 3 cloves of garlic (fresh, for flavor)
- 2 bay leaves (for a distinct taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground, for an extra flavor boost)
- Oil (for frying, preferably sunflower or olive oil)

A Brief History of the Recipe

Marinating meat in milk is a technique used for centuries across various cultures to tenderize and flavor meat dishes. Milk contains acids that help break down the proteins in the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Adding spices like garlic and thyme transforms this dish into a true delicacy.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Chicken Thighs in Milk Marinade

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
- Start by cutting the chicken thighs in half at the joint and removing the skin. This is an important step, as the skin can prevent the meat from marinating evenly. I recommend using a sharp knife and being careful not to cut yourself.

2. Preparing the marinade:
- In a large bowl, add the milk, crushed garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
- Fresh garlic adds an intense flavor, and the bay leaves give a pleasant aroma. If you’re a flavor enthusiast, you can also add a few peppercorns or a pinch of chili powder for a spicy kick.

3. Marinating:
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for 24 hours. This step is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

4. Cooking the thighs:
- After 24 hours, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and let them drain. Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. It’s important to have enough oil to fry the thighs evenly.
- Fry the chicken thighs in oil for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Don’t forget to check the internal temperature of the meat: it should reach 75 degrees Celsius.

5. Serving:
- The chicken thighs can be served alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. If you want to add a touch of elegance, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. A glass of dry white wine or a pale beer pairs perfectly with this savory dish.

Practical Tips

- About marinating: Marinating for more than 24 hours can intensify the flavors, but don’t overdo it, as the meat can become too soft.
- Variation: You can experiment with various herbs like oregano or basil to customize the flavor of the dish.
- Alternative: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can use boneless chicken, reducing the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What can I do if I don’t have whole milk?
- You can use semi-skimmed milk, but the result will be slightly different in texture.

- Can I use another type of meat?
- This marinade works excellently with pork or turkey as well. The marinating and cooking times are similar.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of chicken thighs prepared this way contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain essential vitamins such as B6 and B12. These contribute to the health of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells.

Conclusion

Chicken thighs in milk marinade represent a simple yet refined recipe that can be enjoyed on any occasion. By experimenting with various flavors and sides, you can transform this recipe into a unique dish tailored to your tastes. Try challenging your friends to a themed dinner and enjoy every moment spent at the table!