Chicken thighs with apples, oranges, and beer

Chicken Thighs Recipe with Apples, Oranges, and Beer

*A feast of flavors that brings joy to the holiday table!*

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a lovingly cooked chicken meal? This recipe for chicken thighs with apples, oranges, and beer is not only a delicious choice but also an excellent way to transform simple ingredients into a sophisticated dish. A harmonious blend of flavors that promises to delight the taste buds of the whole family.

A brief story about the recipe

Using fruits in savory dishes has been an old tradition that adds a touch of freshness and a pleasant contrast. This recipe combines the sweetness of apples and the juiciness of oranges with the delicious flavors of chicken, while the beer adds a note of complexity. It is a versatile recipe, perfect for any occasion, from an ordinary dinner to a special celebration.

Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for a crispy crust)
- 4 Golden apples (or any preferred type)
- 2 oranges (nicknamed "the gold of summer" for their flavor and juiciness)
- 3-4 tablespoons of peanut oil (excellent for high-temperature cooking)
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (for an exotic flavor)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 500 ml blonde beer (choose a quality beer for better taste)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the chicken thighs:
Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold water and drying them with a paper towel. This will help achieve a crispy crust during baking. Make small cuts in the skin of the thighs in a few places to allow the spices to penetrate better.

2. Measuring and seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix the peanut oil with salt, pepper, curry, and rosemary. Use a brush or your fingers to massage this mixture onto each thigh, ensuring it is well coated. This step is essential for infusing the meat with flavors.

3. Browning the thighs:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the thighs in an ovenproof dish and bake them for about 10 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they become golden and crispy.

4. Adding the fruits and beer:
While the thighs are browning, wash the apples and oranges. Slice the apples thinly and cut the oranges into rounds. Once the thighs are browned, remove the dish from the oven and add the apple and orange slices on top. Pour the beer over them, ensuring the fruits are well covered.

5. Final baking:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and return it to the oven for another 30 minutes. This will allow the thighs to tenderize and absorb the flavors of the fruits and beer.

6. Serving:
After the baking time is up, remove the dish from the oven. If you desire a crispier crust, remove the foil and leave the thighs in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Practical tips

- Choosing the thighs: Chicken thighs with skin are ideal for this recipe, as the skin will brown and add extra flavor.
- Fresh fruits: Use fresh apples and oranges to achieve the best flavors. Golden apples are sweet and firm, perfect for cooking.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding other fruits, such as peaches or plums. You can also replace the beer with white wine for a different flavor.
- Suggested sides: These delicious thighs pair well with a side of basmati rice or baked potatoes. A fresh green salad will also add a crunchy note.

Nutritional benefits

- Chicken: An excellent source of protein, essential for muscle health.
- Apples: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, they contribute to healthy digestion.
- Oranges: A good source of vitamin C, necessary for a strong immune system.
- Beer: Contains antioxidants, but consumption should be moderate.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted using turkey or even pork, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. I recommend reheating them in the oven to keep them crispy.

3. What kind of beer should I choose?
A blonde beer is ideal, but you can experiment with flavored beers, which can add an interesting note to the dish.

Serving suggestion

For a memorable meal, serve the chicken thighs with a glass of cold beer and a salad of raw vegetables. This will balance the rich flavors of the chicken with the freshness of the vegetables.

In conclusion, this recipe for chicken thighs with apples, oranges, and beer is perfect for a family dinner, as well as for gatherings with friends. Experiment with flavors and find the combination you like best. Enjoy your meal!