Chicken thighs on a bed of cabbage

Recipe: Chicken Thighs on a Bed of Cabbage

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

On a cool day, nothing compares to the inviting aroma of roasted chicken thighs cooked on a bed of fresh vegetables. This simple and delicious recipe for chicken thighs on a bed of cabbage will turn any meal into a true culinary feast. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this dish that combines tradition with refined taste.

Ingredients you will need

- 6 chicken thighs (drumsticks)
- 1 cabbage weighing about 1 kg
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 3 green onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 large tomato
- A few sprigs of fresh dill
- 1 sprig of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 50 ml water
- 150 ml white wine
- Oil for greasing the tray

Spices for the thighs

- Salt
- Pepper
- Sweet paprika
- Ground chili
- Garlic powder

Brief history of the recipe

Chicken thighs cooked with vegetables is a dish that has been loved for generations. This recipe reflects the simplicity and satisfaction of cooking at home, using basic yet flavorful ingredients. Cabbage, a versatile vegetable, is often associated with roasted dishes, and the combination of meat and vegetables has been utilized over time in various cultures, each bringing its own contribution of flavors and techniques.

Step by step: How to prepare chicken thighs on a bed of cabbage

1. Preparing the chicken thighs
Start by washing the chicken thighs well. They should be clean, and at the same time, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. Now is the perfect time to season them. Use a mix of salt, pepper, sweet paprika, ground chili, and garlic powder. These spices will add an intense and aromatic flavor to the thighs.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the thighs are marinating, you can take care of the vegetables. Wash the cabbage, bell pepper, green onions, and tomato well. Cut the cabbage into thick strips, the green onions into rounds, and the bell pepper and tomato into larger cubes. Grate the carrot on a large grater. Don’t forget to finely chop the fresh dill – it will add a fresh aroma to the dish.

3. Assembling the dish
In a roasting tray, drizzle a little olive oil which will help brown the vegetables. Place all the chopped vegetables in the tray, mix them well, and sprinkle the dill, thyme sprig, cumin, salt, and pepper on top. Now it’s time to place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.

4. Adding the liquids
Carefully pour the water and white wine over the chicken thighs. These liquids will help achieve a juicy roast and will add a special flavor. Also, add a few drops of oil for an extra flavor boost.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cover the tray with a piece of baking paper and place it in the oven. Let it bake for about 30-40 minutes. The aromas will begin to fill the entire house, and the delicious steam will make everyone salivate.

6. Final browning
After 30-40 minutes, remove the baking paper and let the thighs brown for another 10-15 minutes. You will notice how the meat becomes golden and crispy, while the vegetables caramelize slightly, creating a blend of flavors that will delight your senses.

Serving

The chicken thighs on a bed of cabbage are served hot, straight from the tray. You can add a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad to complete the meal. A bottle of white wine or apple juice would go wonderfully alongside this dish, highlighting the green and juicy flavors of the chicken.

Useful tips

- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add diced potatoes or whole carrots for extra substance. You can also use turkey thighs or even fish fillets, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have white wine on hand, you can use water or chicken broth for a similar taste.
- Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day, becoming even tastier.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and cabbage is rich in vitamins and minerals, being a low-calorie food. This recipe not only provides a delicious meal but also contributes to a healthy diet, being rich in nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots can be used instead of cabbage. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables chosen.

2. How can I make the thighs crispier?
After removing the baking paper, you can activate the grill function of the oven to achieve a crunchier crust.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish can be frozen without any problems. Divide the portions into airtight containers and freeze for a quick future meal.

In conclusion

Cooking chicken thighs on a bed of cabbage is not just about feeding the body, but also about creating pleasant memories and exploring the joy of cooking. The flavors that intertwine in the oven will bring smiles and satisfaction, whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let yourself be inspired by the magic of cooking!

Enjoy your meal and have a weekend full of culinary delights!