Chicken thighs with basil in a cheese and vegetable crust

Chicken Thighs in Cheese Blanket with Sautéed Vegetables

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

The culinary journey we will embark on today will take us into the world of delicious chicken thighs in a cheese blanket, accompanied by a mix of sautéed vegetables, cooked with care and love. This recipe, which combines the intense flavors of cheese with the juiciness of chicken and the freshness of vegetables, has been a family favorite for over two decades. So, let's get started!

Ingredients

For the chicken thighs:
- 1 kg boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 200 g cheese (preferably one with a strong flavor)
- 200 g feta cheese
- 150 ml sour cream
- 50 g butter
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Flour (for dredging the thighs)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh or dried basil (to taste)
- 1 clove of garlic (crushed)

For the garnish:
- 3 red bell peppers
- 3 medium carrots
- 200 g champignon mushrooms
- 50 g butter
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt (to taste)

Short Story about the Recipe

Cheese-covered chicken thighs have a rich history in gastronomy, rooted in traditional meat dishes where cheese was used to add a note of flavor and creaminess. This recipe blends influences from various culinary cultures, transforming a staple ingredient – chicken – into a sophisticated delicacy, perfect for family meals or special occasions.

Preparing the Chicken Thighs

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold water, then dry them with a kitchen towel. This step will help achieve a crispy crust.

2. Seasoning the meat: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and basil on the chicken thighs, ensuring all sides are well coated. These spices will enhance the flavor of the chicken and add depth to the dish.

3. Dredging in flour: Dredge each chicken thigh in flour. This step will help form a delicious crust during frying.

4. Frying: In a large skillet, add the oil and butter, then heat over medium heat. When the butter has melted and started to foam, add the chicken thighs. Fry them on each side for 4-5 minutes until golden.

5. Initial baking: Transfer the fried thighs to a baking dish. Spoon some of the remaining fat from the skillet over them for added flavor. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 200°C for 5 minutes.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture

1. Combining the cheeses: In a bowl, mix about ¾ of the grated cheese, feta cheese, sour cream, crushed garlic, and basil. This mixture will form the delicious and creamy cheese blanket that will cover the thighs.

2. Applying the cheese blanket: Remove the dish from the oven and use a spoon to spread the cheese mixture evenly over each thigh.

3. Final baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. One minute before removing from the oven, sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the thighs for a wonderful finish.

Preparing the Vegetable Garnish

1. Preparing the vegetables: Roast the bell peppers on a hot plate or in the oven until charred. Once roasted, peel them, remove the seeds, and cut them into long strips.

2. Cutting the carrots: Peel the carrots and, using a peeler, cut them into thin strips.

3. The mushrooms: Slice the mushrooms into thin strips.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add the butter and oil, then add the carrots with a pinch of salt. Cover the skillet and let them soften for 5-7 minutes. Add the mushrooms and finally, the strips of bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for another 3-4 minutes until tender.

Serving the Dish

Once the chicken thighs are ready and the garnish is sautéed, transfer the thighs to a platter and arrange the vegetables alongside them. This dish is perfect to be served with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.

Practical Tips

- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some black or green olives to the vegetable mix.
- Variations: Instead of feta cheese, you can use goat cheese for a stronger flavor. You can also substitute the thighs with chicken breasts, but the cooking time will be reduced.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of chicken thighs with cheese contains approximately 550 calories, providing a rich source of protein and calcium, thanks to the cheese. The vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, but make sure to choose cheeses that melt well.

2. Is this recipe suitable for children?
Absolutely! The chicken thighs are juicy, and the cheese adds a pleasant taste that children will enjoy.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
I recommend serving this dish with a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade that will complement the flavors of the meal.

Conclusion

Chicken thighs in cheese blanket with sautéed vegetables are an excellent choice for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. With a combination of flavors, textures, and colors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So don’t hesitate to try it and enjoy a culinary feast! Bon appétit!