Chicken thighs with onions and tomatoes

Chicken Thighs with Onions and Tomatoes – A Symphony of Flavors

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 50-60 minutes
Servings: 2

Who doesn’t fondly remember family meals, where the unmistakable aroma of lovingly cooked dishes filled our homes with joy? Chicken thighs with onions and tomatoes are a simple yet flavorful recipe that instantly transports us to those moments of happiness. This recipe is not just a dish, but a story about tradition, about simple ingredients that transform into true delicacies.

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs
- 2 large onions
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 200 g diced tomatoes (or 3 fresh tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill or parsley, optional)

Preparing the Chicken Thighs:
1. Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. It is important to remove any leftover feathers and excess fat for a healthier dish. Wash the thighs under cold running water and let them drain on a paper towel.

2. In a pot or a heat-resistant dish, add the oil and wait for it to heat over medium heat. Olive oil adds a special flavor, but you can also use sunflower oil if you prefer a more neutral option.

3. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. Roll them well in the oil to ensure they are evenly coated. This step is essential for achieving a delicious crust in the oven.

4. Sprinkle vegeta, pepper, paprika, and thyme over the thighs. The bay leaves add a subtle aroma, so don’t neglect them. If you like spicier food, you can adjust the quantities to taste.

Preparing the Vegetables:
5. Clean the onion and garlic. Chop the onion finely and crush the garlic. These ingredients will bring a special depth to your dish.

6. Add the onion and garlic over the thighs, stirring gently to distribute them evenly. The aroma of caramelized onions is simply irresistible!

7. Dice the tomatoes and add them to the pot. If you are using canned tomatoes, make sure they are of good quality to achieve a rich and delicious sauce.

8. Add a little water (about 100 ml) to the pot to prevent the ingredients from burning and to create a savory sauce. This step is crucial for achieving a moist and flavorful dish.

Baking:
9. Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Let the thighs bake for 40-50 minutes. During baking, it is important to baste the thighs with the sauce from the pot every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.

10. Check if the thighs are cooked by inserting a fork into the meat. If the juice runs clear, without any traces of blood, they are ready. If not, let them cook for a few more minutes.

Finishing and Serving:
11. Once the thighs are cooked, you can sprinkle them with fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for a touch of freshness. If you are not a fan of herbs, this step is optional.

12. Serve the thighs alongside your favorite side dish. I chose to combine them with accordion potatoes and pickled watermelon for a contrast of textures and flavors. A fresh vegetable salad can perfectly complement this dish.

The Story Behind the Recipe:
This recipe for chicken thighs with onions and tomatoes is one of those dishes that reminds you of Sunday family meals. It is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to anyone's preferences. You can add bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms to enrich the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless thighs – the cooking time will be reduced, so check them more often.

2. What other spices can I add?
For an exotic touch, try adding cumin or coriander. Also, a bit of chili pepper can add extra flavor.

3. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water, 10 minutes before finishing cooking.

Nutritional Benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs, and the onion and tomatoes provide an important supply of vitamins and antioxidants. Tomatoes are known for their lycopene content, a compound with antioxidant properties. The olive oil used in this recipe is a source of healthy fats, beneficial for the heart.

Variations:
For a spicier version, add a few slices of chili pepper or specific spices. You can replace the tomatoes with tomato sauce or paste for a more concentrated sauce. Additionally, adding green or black olives can give a Mediterranean touch to the dish.

Practical Tips:
- Choose chicken thighs with skin for a crispier crust.
- Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature before cooking to achieve even cooking.
- Don’t forget to cover the pot in the first 30 minutes of cooking to retain moisture.

Enjoy your meal! This is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will keep you coming back to it. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or as a hearty dish for an ordinary day, chicken thighs with onions and tomatoes are the perfect choice. Savor every bite and enjoy the warmth and aroma of this recipe!