Chicken thighs with mushrooms and vegetables baked in the oven

Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms and Vegetables Baked

A rustic and hearty dish, chicken thighs with mushrooms and vegetables baked are the perfect choice for a comforting dinner, full of flavors. This recipe combines the juicy taste of chicken with the delicate texture of mushrooms and the crunchiness of vegetables, creating a meal that will surely impress family or friends.

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

Ingredients
- 3 chicken thighs, preferably with skin
- 400 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 tomato
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dried basil (or fresh, if available)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 50 ml red wine

Brief History
Baked chicken thighs with vegetables are a traditional dish found in many culinary cultures. Generally, baked dishes are appreciated for combining various ingredients, allowing flavors to develop over time. This recipe is an excellent choice for cooler days when we crave a meal that warms the soul.

Ingredient Details
- Chicken thighs: Choose thighs with skin for a richer taste and juicier texture.
- Mushrooms: If opting for canned mushrooms, make sure to wash them well to remove excess salt. Fresh mushrooms provide a more intense flavor.
- Vegetables: The bell pepper is sweet and adds a pop of color, while the carrot and onion contribute to the natural sweetness of the dish.
- Red wine: This will add depth and complexity to the flavors. If preferred, you can use white wine, but the result will be different.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by washing the chicken thighs well under warm water. If desired, you can lightly singe them over a flame to remove any feathers.
- Canned mushrooms should be taken out of the jar and washed in 3-4 waters to remove salt and preservatives. If using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them thickly.
- Remove the stem and seeds from the bell pepper, then cut it into 6 pieces.
- Wash the carrot, peel it, and cut it into large pieces.
- Peel the onion, wash it, and cut it in half, while the garlic should be peeled and left whole.
- Peel the tomato (to avoid bitterness) and cut it in half.

2. Chopping the vegetables:
- Using a food processor or a chopping machine, finely chop all the vegetables. This method ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout the mixture.

3. Assembling the dish:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Place the chicken thighs in the dish and season with salt, pepper, and basil on both sides.
- Place the mushrooms over the thighs, followed by the chopped vegetables.
- Pour the wine over the entire mixture, add a little water (about 50 ml), and sprinkle a pinch of salt on top.

4. Baking:
- Cover the dish with a lid and place it in the oven. Let it bake at a moderate heat for about 45 minutes.
- After this time, check if the thighs are well cooked and if the juice has reduced. A good indication is when the meat easily separates from the bone and has developed a golden crust on top.

5. Finishing and serving:
- Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. This step is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier.
- Serve the chicken thighs with vegetables and mushrooms alongside a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

Useful Tips
- For a more intense flavor: Add spices such as paprika or thyme, which pair very well with chicken.
- Variations: You can replace mushrooms with zucchini or eggplant, depending on your preferences. You can also add green or black olives for an extra touch of flavor.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry red wine or craft beer. A green salad with lemon and olive oil will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits
This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and fiber. Olive oil provides healthy fats, important for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use skinless chicken? Yes, but you will need to adjust the baking time, as skinless chicken cooks faster and can become dry.
- How can I store leftovers? Chicken thighs with mushrooms and vegetables store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.
- What side dishes can I use? Mashed potatoes, rice, or a summer salad are excellent options.

A Personal Note
For me, this dish evokes pleasant childhood memories when my mother cooked chicken thighs with vegetables every Sunday. The aroma that filled the house was simply irresistible. I encourage you to share the recipe with your loved ones, as food cooked with love always brings people together.

I hope you enjoy this simple and delicious recipe, which not only satisfies the taste buds but also brings warmth and comfort on cooler days! Enjoy your meal!