Chicken thighs roasted in a bed of salt like in the sun

Chicken thighs like in the sun – a simple, delicious, and aromatic recipe, perfect for an unforgettable dinner. This recipe brings a touch of joy and tradition to every meal, combining simple ingredients to create an impressive dish. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, these chicken thighs will surely become your favorites.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 8-10 chicken thighs (preferably with skin, for a richer taste)
- 200 g slices of cheese (choose a quality cheese that melts well)
- 2-3 medium tomatoes (sliced into rounds; you can use meaty tomatoes for more flavor)
- Coarse salt (to create a flavorful bed for baking the thighs)
- Spices of your choice (pepper, paprika, herbs – basil, oregano)

Necessary utensils:

- A baking tray
- Baking paper (optional, for easier cleaning)
- A knife and a cutting board
- A spatula

Brief history of the recipe:

Baked chicken thighs have become an iconic dish in many cultures due to their ease of preparation and delicious outcome. They are often associated with family gatherings and festive meals, offering a perfect combination of juicy meat and a crispy crust. Using salt to bake them is an ancient technique that helps intensify flavors and achieve a perfect texture.

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by preheating the oven to 220°C. While the oven heats up, wash the chicken thighs well under cold running water and pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. Creating the salt bed: In a baking tray, add a generous layer of coarse salt, enough to form a bed for the thighs. This will help retain moisture and provide a special flavor.

3. Seasoning the thighs: Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. If desired, you can also add a little olive oil to make them crispier.

4. Arranging the thighs: Place the chicken thighs on the salt bed, making sure they do not overlap. This will allow for even cooking and perfect browning.

5. Adding vegetables: Place the slices of cheese on top of the thighs, followed by the tomato rounds. These will not only add a fresh taste but will also enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

6. Baking the thighs: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the thighs bake for about 45-60 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the thighs are evenly browned. Towards the end, you can also activate the grill function of the oven to achieve an even crispier crust.

7. Serving: Once the thighs are browned and juicy, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Place them on a plate and serve with your desired side – creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly, but you can also opt for a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Useful tips:

- Choose chicken thighs with skin: This will help retain the juiciness of the meat and provide a delicious crust.
- Season to taste: Be creative with the spices! You can add garlic powder, herbs de Provence, or even a splash of lemon for a fresher taste.
- Test variations: Instead of tomatoes, you can use bell peppers or mushrooms, and instead of cheese, you can experiment with feta or mozzarella for a different texture.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Why should I use coarse salt?
Coarse salt helps retain moisture and adds flavor, and during baking, it allows the thighs to brown evenly.

2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, but the baking time will be shorter. Check the thighs frequently to ensure they do not dry out.

3. What sides go best with this dish?
You can serve the thighs with mashed potatoes, a green salad, or grilled vegetables. Also, a dry white wine will pair perfectly with this dish.

Nutrition and calories:

This recipe is rich in protein, thanks to the chicken thighs, and contains healthy fats from the cheese. One serving (2 thighs) has approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used. Besides taste, chicken thighs also provide essential vitamins, such as B6 and B12, necessary for the health of the nervous system and skin.

Personal note:

One recommendation I adore is to add some chopped black or green olives on top before placing the dish in the oven. This detail adds a Mediterranean touch and a savory flavor that will pleasantly surprise everyone at the table.

So, I invite you to try this simple and tasty recipe that will transform an ordinary dinner into a memorable culinary experience! With a glass of good wine alongside, you will truly feel like you’ve brought the sun to your plate. Enjoy your meal!