Chicken thighs marinated in wine with sautéed peas

Marinated Chicken Thighs in Wine with Pea Sauté: A Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marination time: 3-4 hours
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 4 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Recipe history:
Marinated chicken thighs are a classic dish that brings with it a story full of flavors and culinary traditions. In many cultures, marinating meat is an ancient practice that enhances not only its taste but also its texture. The combination of wine, garlic, and spices provides a rich marinade that penetrates the meat, giving it a unique flavor. The sautéed peas and carrots add a touch of freshness and color, transforming this dish into a visual and culinary feast.

Necessary ingredients:
For the chicken thighs:
- 20 pieces of chicken thighs
- 6-8 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Olive oil (about 4-5 tablespoons)
- 400 ml dry white wine
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Peppercorns (about a teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For the sauté:
- 1.25 kg cleaned peas (about 4 cups)
- 3 medium carrots
- A bunch of fresh dill
- Butter (about a walnut-sized piece)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
- Start by cleaning and washing the chicken thighs very well. Make sure to remove any excess fat or unnecessary skin. Place them in a colander to drain.

2. Preparing the marinade:
- Clean the garlic cloves and crush them. Add a pinch of salt to help turn them into a fine paste.
- In a bowl, mix the crushed garlic with 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil, drop by drop, until you get a smooth paste.
- Add the lemon juice, white wine, freshly ground pepper, peppercorns, and dried thyme. Mix all the ingredients well.

3. Marinating the thighs:
- Place the chicken thighs in a deep dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure all the thighs are well covered. Use a gentle side-to-side motion to mix the meat with the marinade.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and leave it in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours. If you have time, it is ideal to let them marinate overnight for an even more intense flavor.

4. Preparing the pea sauté:
- While the thighs are marinating, you can prepare the sauté. Clean and wash the peas, then peel the carrots and slice them into rounds.
- Place the peas and carrots in a pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Boil them until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain them in a colander and let them drain.

5. Sautéing the peas and carrots:
- In a large skillet, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add the peas and carrot mixture and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and finely chopped dill. Once the peas and carrots are well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat.

6. Baking the chicken thighs:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C. Remove the chicken thighs from the refrigerator and place them in a baking dish. Pour the remaining marinade over them. If necessary, you can add a little water to prevent them from drying out.
- Bake the thighs for 40-50 minutes, until they are browned and well cooked. During baking, baste them occasionally with the sauce from the dish to keep them moist and flavorful.

7. Serving:
- Serve the chicken thighs hot, alongside the pea and carrot sauté. You can add a slice of lemon for a touch of freshness and a sprig of dill for decoration.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine to complement the flavors of the meal.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh and quality chicken thighs for better taste. If you want a healthier option, you can use chicken breast, but the cooking time will differ.
- In the pea sauté, you can also add other vegetables such as onion or bell pepper to diversify the flavors.
- If you are short on time, you can use frozen peas, which are just as tasty and quick to prepare.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
- Absolutely! You can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breast, turkey, or even pork, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a skillet.

3. Can I prepare the marinade a day in advance?
- Yes, the marinade can be prepared a day in advance, and the meat will absorb all the flavors, making it tastier.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and peas are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing essential nutrients to the body.

I hope this recipe for marinated chicken thighs in wine with pea sauté inspires you to cook at home and enjoy delicious moments with your loved ones. Bon appétit!