Chicken thighs with beer and raisins baked in the oven

Chicken thighs with beer and raisins baked in the oven - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of enticing flavors! Today, we will prepare together a recipe that combines the juiciness of chicken meat with the sweetness of raisins and the unmistakable aroma of beer. Baked chicken thighs with beer and raisins are a perfect choice for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. This recipe is easy to make and promises a delicious result, full of flavor.

Throughout history, chicken has been an accessible and versatile source of protein, and the combination with beer is not coincidental. Beer helps tenderize the meat and adds a deep flavor, while the raisins provide a sweet contrast that elevates the dish to another level.

Ingredients:

- 5-6 chicken thighs (washed and dried)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- A handful of raisins (about 100 g)
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 2 sprigs of rosemary (washed and leaves removed)
- A bottle of beer (preferably a blonde beer or a lager)

Step 1: Preparing the oven and the dish

Start by preheating the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving an even browning of the thighs. While the oven is heating up, prepare a medium-sized heat-resistant dish that will hold the chicken thighs.

Step 2: Arranging the ingredients in the dish

Place the chicken thighs in the prepared dish. Make sure they are well distributed so they do not overlap. This will allow the heat to circulate freely and cook the meat evenly.

Step 3: Seasoning

Sprinkle salt and freshly ground pepper over the chicken thighs, to taste. Add the rosemary leaves removed from the stems, which will add a fresh and aromatic flavor. The olive oil will help you achieve a golden and crispy crust, so pour it evenly over the thighs.

Step 4: Adding the beer and raisins

Now it's time to pour the beer over the chicken thighs. This will not only enrich the dish with flavors but will also help tenderize the meat. Add the raisins, which will hydrate during baking, bringing a touch of sweetness to the dish.

Step 5: Baking

Place the tray in the preheated oven. Let the thighs bake for 30 minutes. After this interval, remove the tray from the oven and turn the thighs over to brown evenly. Put the tray back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the thighs become golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serving

When the chicken thighs are ready, remove the tray from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is important to allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, ensuring that each bite is juicy and full of flavor. Serve the thighs hot, alongside a fresh salad that will balance the rich flavors of the dish.

Practical tips:

- You can substitute raisins with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, to add a different note.
- If you desire a more intense flavor, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves to the mixture.
- Make sure the chicken thighs are at room temperature before placing them in the oven for even baking.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain essential vitamins such as B6 and B12. Raisins add fiber and antioxidants, being beneficial for digestion and heart health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
- Yes, but the baking time will be shorter, so be careful not to dry them out.

2. What type of beer is recommended?
- A blonde beer or a lager works best, but you can experiment with different types to find the perfect combination for your tastes.

3. What side dishes pair well with this dish?
- Rice or mashed potatoes are excellent options, as well as steamed vegetables or a green salad.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can cook the thighs a day ahead and reheat them before serving.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to amaze your family and friends with these baked chicken thighs with beer and raisins. Good food is about the joy of spending time with loved ones, and this recipe will only bring smiles to their faces! Enjoy your meal!