Chicken Thighs with Lemon Sauce

Chicken Thighs with Lemon Sauce and Mashed Potatoes

This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the juicy flavors of chicken thighs with the freshness of lemon, giving you a dish that will delight any meal. Slowly baked in the oven, the chicken thighs become tender and aromatic, while the mashed potatoes provide a creamy and comforting texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you'll create a perfect main dish for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes (30-40 min for chicken, 20 min for mash)
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the chicken thighs:
- 6 chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 200 ml water

For the side dish:
- 500 g potatoes
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons rice flour (or cornstarch, or regular flour)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 tartlet molds (or a baking dish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chicken thighs

1. Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. It is important to clean them of any impurities.
2. If desired, you can remove the skin for a healthier option, but if you prefer a richer flavor, you can leave it on.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish. You can also use a ceramic or metal dish, but the ceramic will retain heat better.

Step 2: Seasoning

1. In a small bowl, mix the oil, salt, pepper, and ground coriander.
2. Pour the spice mixture over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
3. Squeeze the juice from the 2 lemons and add it to the dish, then add water. This will create a delicious sauce that will keep the meat juicy during cooking.

Step 3: Cooking the chicken thighs

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the thighs bake for 30-40 minutes. Check if they are cooked, and the juice that comes out of the meat should be clear.

Step 4: Prepare the mashed potatoes

1. Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Boil them in a pot with water and a little salt.
2. Cook until soft (about 15-20 minutes), then drain the water.
3. Mash the potatoes with a masher or a fork until you achieve a smooth puree.

Step 5: Create the mash composition

1. In a bowl, add the mashed potatoes, eggs, rice flour, melted butter, Parmesan, basil, and rosemary. Mix well until you get a homogeneous composition. Taste and season with salt and pepper, as desired.

Step 6: Baking the mash

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C.
2. Grease the tartlet molds with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking.
3. Fill the molds with the mash composition, leveling the surface.
4. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, until the mash turns golden and crispy on the edges.

Serving

Remove the chicken thighs from the oven and place them on a platter. Serve them alongside the mashed potatoes, and for an extra touch of freshness, add a green salad or fresh vegetable salad, drizzled with a little olive oil and lemon juice. This combination is not only delicious but also colorful, bringing a pleasant contrast to the plate.

Practical Tips

- Variability: You can add other spices or herbs to the mash composition, such as dill or parsley, to give it a different flavor.
- Alternative to chicken: If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can use large mushrooms or roasted vegetables as an alternative to chicken.
- Make-ahead: The chicken thighs can be marinated with lemon and spices a day in advance to intensify the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless thighs, but the cooking time will be reduced. Check the meat earlier to avoid drying out.

2. What else can I add to the mashed potatoes?
You can add goat cheese or sour cream for a richer texture.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch diluted in cold water to the sauce in the chicken dish, in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g

This recipe for chicken thighs with lemon sauce and mashed potatoes is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates essential for energy. Additionally, lemon contributes antioxidants, helping to strengthen the immune system.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Whether you're preparing this dish for a family dinner or to impress friends, you can't go wrong. Bon appétit!