Chicken thighs with baked potatoes in a Romanian pot

Chicken Thighs with Oven-Baked Potatoes in a Roman Dish

Welcome to the world of simple yet flavorful aromas! Today, I invite you to prepare a classic recipe that blends culinary tradition with modern technique, bringing a delicious dish to your table: chicken thighs with oven-baked potatoes, cooked in a Roman dish. This cooking method not only intensifies the flavors but also retains moisture, resulting in a juicy and tasty outcome.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 7-8 chicken drumsticks
- 15 medium potatoes (preferably new ones for a finer texture)
- 4 small onions (preferably red for a sweeter flavor)
- 1 head of garlic
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Oregano (1 teaspoon)
- Thyme (1 teaspoon)
- A few sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Olive oil (3-4 tablespoons)

A Brief Story

The Roman dish, known for centuries, has been used in traditional cooking due to its ability to distribute heat evenly. This cooking technique is based on the principle that ingredients cook slowly, allowing flavors to blend and develop. The chicken thighs become incredibly tender, while the potatoes acquire a creamy texture and intense flavor. These chicken thighs with potatoes are a perfect choice for a family dinner or to impress guests.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing the onions and potatoes. Cut the onions in half and the potatoes into quarters or halves, depending on their size. New potatoes do not require peeling, but it’s best to wash them thoroughly.

2. Arranging in the dish: Place the potato and onion halves in the Roman dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then add the rosemary leaves. This will add a wonderful aroma to the dish.

3. Preparing the chicken thighs: Wash the chicken thighs and make 4-5 slashes in each. This will allow the marinade to penetrate the meat well. Take a few garlic cloves, peel them, and cut them in half. Insert each half into the slashes made.

4. Marinating: In a bowl, mix the olive oil with oregano and finely chopped thyme. Add a teaspoon of salt and a heaped teaspoon of pepper, mixing well. Take each thigh and coat it in this mixture, ensuring it is well covered with seasoning.

5. Arranging the thighs in the dish: Place the chicken thighs on top of the potatoes in the Roman dish, being careful not to overlap them. This will ensure even cooking.

6. Baking: Cover the Roman dish and place it in a cold oven. Set the temperature to 180-190 degrees Celsius. It’s important for the dish to heat gradually to avoid cracking.

7. Final browning: After about an hour, remove the lid and let the dish bake for another 20 minutes to achieve a nice golden color on top. You’ll notice the aroma of chicken and spices filling the house.

8. Serving: Once the dish is ready, carefully take the dish out of the oven. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or a side of vegetables for a delicious contrast. You can add a squeeze of lemon for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality ingredients: Opt for chicken thighs from local farmers if possible. They have a much better flavor than store-bought ones.
- Variations: You can add carrots or zucchini to the Roman dish to diversify the side. Also, substitute rosemary with sage or basil to change the flavor profile.
- Suitable drinks: A dry white wine or a refreshing rosé pairs wonderfully with this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, herbal tea or lemon juice with sparkling water are excellent choices.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken thighs, and provides healthy carbohydrates from the potatoes. Olive oil brings omega-3 fatty acids and is a powerful antioxidant. Additionally, garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and can support the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I prevent the potatoes from burning? Make sure to use enough liquid in the Roman dish and remember to stir the ingredients occasionally.
- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, you can prepare everything a day ahead and place the dish in the oven straight from the fridge, adjusting the baking time.

This recipe for chicken thighs with oven-baked potatoes in a Roman dish is not only easy to make but also very satisfying. The combined flavors will delight any palate, and the meal will bring a sense of warmth and comfort. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with loved ones!