Chicken thighs with baked potatoes

Chicken thighs with baked potatoes: A simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2-3

Who doesn't love a tasty meal that doesn't require hours spent in the kitchen? Chicken thighs with baked potatoes are a perfect example of a simple yet flavorful recipe. This dish is very popular in many households due to its delicious combination and easy preparation. It's a comforting meal, perfect for a family evening or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for a richer taste)
- 4-5 medium potatoes (choose well-cooked potatoes with smooth skin)
- 4-5 cloves of garlic (fresh, to add flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or another vegetable oil, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon of vegeta (or your favorite spice mix)
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika (for color and flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 glass of water (about 200 ml)

Recipe preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by thoroughly cleaning the chicken thighs. Remove any excess skin or fat. Wash them under cold running water and let them drain. The potatoes should be peeled, washed, and cut into thicker pieces than those for frying, so they don’t turn into mush during baking. A size of about 3-4 cm is ideal.

Step 2: Seasoning the potatoes

In a large baking dish, place the oil and add the cleaned and cut potatoes. Sprinkle the vegeta, paprika, and pepper, then mix well so that all the potato pieces are evenly coated with spices. This will ensure a delicious aroma and intense flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the chicken thighs

Rub the chicken thighs with oil, making sure they are well coated. Sprinkle vegeta, paprika, and pepper on both sides of the thighs. This step is essential for achieving a crispy and delicious crust during baking.

Step 4: Assembling in the dish

Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes in the dish. This will allow the juices and flavors of the meat to penetrate the potatoes, making them a perfect accompaniment. Add the glass of water to the dish, which will maintain moisture and help cook the ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 1 hour. It is important to stir the potatoes and turn the thighs every 20 minutes to ensure even browning and rich flavor. It is also recommended to baste the thighs with the juices from the dish to keep them moist and juicy.

Step 6: Adding garlic

About 10 minutes before removing the dish from the oven, add the peeled and chopped garlic cloves. They will provide an irresistible fragrance and divine flavor to the dish.

Step 7: Serving

Once the thighs are browned and the potatoes are perfectly cooked, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. These chicken thighs with baked potatoes are delicious served warm, alongside a fresh salad or pickles, such as bell peppers with sauerkraut, which add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips

- Choosing chicken thighs: Thighs with skin become crispier and juicier in the oven. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use boneless thighs, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be shorter.
- Potatoes: If you want a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked potatoes, but be careful not to leave them in the oven too long, or they will break down.
- Spices: Experiment with spices! Add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like carrots or chopped onions to the dish for a complete and colorful meal.

Nutritional information

One serving of this recipe (approximately 1 chicken thigh and 1 medium potato) contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, but check the cooking time, as boneless meat cooks faster.
- What can I do with leftovers? Leftover chicken thighs are delicious in salads or sandwiches the next day. You can debone them and add them to soups or stews.
- How can I prevent the potatoes from becoming too soft? Make sure to cut them into larger pieces and stir them regularly.

Chicken thighs with baked potatoes are a classic recipe, but with a flavor and texture that will make you come back to it again and again. Try it and customize it to your taste. Enjoy your meal!