Chicken thighs with lemon

Chicken thighs with lemon - a simple and delicious recipe

When it comes to cooking, sometimes simplicity is key. Chicken thighs with lemon are an excellent choice for a quick and tasty dinner, perfect for those days when you don’t have much time but want to treat yourself to a savory dish. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also brings a refreshing and aromatic flavor, thanks to the lemon and spices.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs (preferably with skin and bone for more juiciness)
- 3 slices of lemon (fresh)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of water

Brief history of the recipe
Lemon chicken thighs are a classic combination in international cuisine. The acidity of the lemon not only brings a vibrant flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. This recipe is often favored by those who want to enjoy intense flavors without dedicating too much time to preparations. It is a dish that can be easily adapted according to personal preferences, making it extremely versatile.

Preparing chicken thighs with lemon

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Remove any excess fat if necessary. This step will ensure a more pleasant texture and cleaner taste.

2. Seasoning: In a heatproof dish, place the chicken thighs. Sprinkle salt, pepper, basil, and oregano on both sides of the meat. These spices combine perfectly with the citrus flavors of the lemon.

3. Adding lemon and oil: Place the 3 slices of lemon over the chicken thighs. You can squeeze a bit of lemon juice on the meat for extra flavor. Drizzle everything with olive oil, which will help brown and caramelize the thighs during baking.

4. Adding water: Pour a cup of water into the dish without removing the spices from the meat. The water will create steam and keep the meat juicy, preventing it from drying out.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 50 minutes. You will know it is ready when the thighs are nicely browned and the juices running from the meat are clear.

6. Serving: Remove the thighs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender meat.

Side dish suggestions
To complement this meal, I recommend a side of plain rice boiled in salted water. The rice will absorb the delicious flavors of the resulting sauce. You can also add steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for extra nutrients and freshness. If you want to bring an unexpected element, you can serve the thighs with pickled watermelon, homemade, which will add a tangy note and a crunchy texture.

Nutritional information
This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy! Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, and lemon provides a dose of vitamin C, essential for the immune system. Olive oil contains healthy fats that are beneficial for your heart. On average, a serving of chicken thighs with lemon contains about 350 calories.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter. Check the meat after 30 minutes to avoid drying out.
- What else can I add to the sauce? You can experiment with chopped garlic, onion, or even olives for a more complex flavor.
- How can I store leftovers? Chicken thighs can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I suggest reheating them in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Possible variations
- Marinated chicken thighs: Marinate the thighs in a mixture of olive oil, lemon, and spices a few hours before cooking to intensify the flavors.
- Adding vegetables: You can add potatoes, carrots, or onions to the dish with chicken to create a complete meal.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of chili powder for a bit of heat!

These lemon chicken thighs are truly an excellent choice for a quick and tasty dinner. I invite you to try them and enjoy the fresh and delicious flavors! Enjoy your meal!