Chicken thighs in potato crust

In search of a delicious meal that combines tradition with innovation, I propose a delightful recipe for chicken thighs in a potato crust. This recipe is perfect for a dinner for two but can easily be adapted to feed guests. Preparing chicken thighs in a potato crust will not only fill the house with inviting aromas but will also bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (approximately 400-500g)
- 600g potatoes
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 5-6 garlic cloves
- 1 egg
- 30g butter
- 3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- Chicken seasoning (or your favorite spice mix)
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tomato for garnish

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. Cut them into cubes of about 3-4 cm for even cooking. Place them in a large pot with cold water and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil for 30 minutes or until soft but not completely mushy.

2. Preparing the chicken thighs: While the potatoes are boiling, you can take care of the chicken thighs. Wash them well under cold running water and sprinkle the chicken seasoning on all sides. This step will ensure an intense flavor.

3. Browning the thighs: In a large skillet, add the oil and the peeled garlic cloves, allowing them to sauté slightly to release their aroma. Add the chicken thighs and brown them on both sides for 5-7 minutes until golden. Remove the garlic cloves and reserve them for another dish or discard them.

4. Cooking the onion: Clean and finely chop the green onions. In the same skillet, add the onions to sauté in the remaining oil, stirring occasionally until they become soft and translucent. This will add a sweet flavor to your dish.

5. Preparing the mashed potatoes: When the potatoes are ready, drain them, being careful to keep the water they boiled in. Mash them with a potato masher, adding salt, pepper, the egg, and a little water from the cooking liquid to achieve a creamy texture. Also add the sautéed onions (with the oil).

6. Assembling the dish: Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a greased baking dish, place an even layer of mashed potatoes, followed by the browned chicken thighs. Cover everything with another layer of mashed potatoes. Slice the tomato and arrange the slices on top for an appetizing look and fresh aroma.

7. Baking in the oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy. The aroma that will fill the kitchen will be unforgettable!

8. Serving: Serve the chicken thighs in a potato crust warm, alongside a fresh salad or pickles to add a contrast of textures and flavors. This combination will turn your meal into a memorable culinary experience!

Nutritional benefits:
- Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle development and maintaining health.
- Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, and contain important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and potassium.
- Onions and garlic are known for their antioxidant properties and benefits for the immune system.

Variations and suggestions:
- You can try this recipe with turkey meat or even with vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- Add grated cheese to the mashed potatoes for a richer taste and texture.
- Instead of tomato, you can use slices of bell pepper or zucchini to diversify the appearance and flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a sweet flavor and vibrant color to the dish.

- How can I make this dish spicier?
Add spices like paprika or ground chili pepper to the chicken seasoning mix.

- What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven will keep the crust's crispy texture.

This recipe for chicken thighs in a potato crust is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a family dinner or with friends. I invite you to let the aromas and flavors of this meal carry you away and share it with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!