Chicken thighs with peas in cream sauce

Chicken thighs with peas in sour cream sauce - a delicious recipe, full of flavor and easy to prepare, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This dish combines simple yet refined ingredients that will delight your senses. Additionally, the mix of fresh vegetables and the creamy sour cream sauce transforms each serving into a true culinary delight.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 3 whole chicken thighs (approximately 1 kg)
- 500 g green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion
- 1 medium carrot
- 200 g sour cream
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 4-5 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a richer flavor)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Oregano (fresh or dried)

Short history of the recipe
Chicken thighs with peas in sour cream sauce is a traditional recipe that has been prepared in various forms in households around the world. This simple yet sophisticated recipe reflects our approach to cooking meals that bring families together, providing not just food but also comfort. The combination of juicy meat and fresh vegetables will remind you of warm meals from your childhood.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the chicken thighs
Start by washing the chicken thighs under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any remnants. Use a sharp knife to remove the drumsticks from the top. These can be used to add extra flavor to soups or stocks. Place the thighs in a large pot and cover them with water. Boil them for about 30 minutes, until the meat is well-cooked and tender.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the thighs are boiling, peel the onion and carrot. Chop the onion finely, and grate the carrot. Wash the green peas well, whether fresh or frozen. If using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them before adding. This will help maintain their crisp texture.

3. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large skillet, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add salt, pepper, and oregano, stirring occasionally. Once the onion has lightly sautéed, add the carrot and peas. Mix well and pour a cup of water over the vegetables. Cover the skillet and let the vegetables simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes.

4. Adding the thighs and sauce
Once the chicken thighs are boiled, remove them from the pot and place them over the vegetables. It is important to ensure that the peas are well-cooked, otherwise, they will have an unpleasant texture. In a separate bowl, prepare the sour cream sauce by mixing the sour cream with the flour. Make sure there are no lumps. Add this mixture over the chicken thighs and vegetables, gently stirring to allow the sauce to integrate well. Let everything simmer for another 3-5 minutes to thicken the sauce.

5. Finalizing the dish
Before removing the dish from the heat, taste and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary. This step is essential for achieving a balanced flavor. Once the sauce has thickened, take the skillet off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes.

Serving
Serve the chicken thighs with peas in sour cream sauce hot, alongside a side of mashed potatoes or boiled rice. These complement the rich and creamy sauce perfectly. Add a crisp green salad to bring a fresh contrast and balance the meal.

Useful tips:
- Variants of the recipe: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as white carrots, zucchini, or even mushrooms to add a unique touch. You can also use chicken cut into smaller pieces to reduce cooking time.
- Storing the sauce: If you have leftover sauce, it can be used to dress pasta or mashed dishes, turning a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.
- Ingredient substitutions: Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option while maintaining a creamy texture.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, boneless thighs will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- How can I make the sauce spicier? Add half a teaspoon of dried chili pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the sour cream sauce.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the thighs and sauce a day ahead, just make sure to reheat them well before serving.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken thighs and contains a significant amount of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, such as A, C, and K, thus providing not only delicious taste but also essential nutrients for your health.

Chicken thighs with peas in sour cream sauce are more than just a simple recipe – they are a way to bring joy and comfort to every meal. I wish you happy cooking and, above all, bon appétit!