Chicken thighs with prosciutto, lemon balm, and white beans

Chicken Thighs with Prosciutto, Lemon Balm, and White Beans

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, I will show you how to prepare a delicious and elegant recipe: chicken thighs with prosciutto, lemon balm, and white beans. This dish is perfect for a special family dinner or to impress friends at a more sophisticated gathering. The chicken thighs are juicy, and the prosciutto adds a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the fresh lemon balm. The white beans contribute extra texture and nutrition. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 6 bone-in chicken thighs, skinless
- 6 slices of prosciutto
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 whole heads of garlic
- 500 g cherry tomatoes
- 200 ml dry white wine
- 1 can (400 g) white beans, drained
- 30 fresh lemon balm leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Helpful Tips for Ingredients

- Chicken Thighs: Choose high-quality chicken thighs, preferably from a trusted supplier. They will be juicier and more flavorful. You can also use boneless thighs, but make sure to adjust the cooking time.
- Prosciutto: This adds a salty note and a crispy texture. You can substitute prosciutto with pancetta or bacon, but the flavor will differ.
- Lemon Balm: This aromatic herb, also known as lemon mint, brings a special fragrance to the dish. If you can't find it, you can use regular mint, but the flavors will vary.
- White Beans: They are an excellent source of protein and fiber. Make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting the oven to 160°C (320°F). This step is essential for ensuring even cooking of the thighs.

2. Prepare the thighs: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, take 3 lemon balm leaves and place them on each thigh to infuse the flavor into the meat.

3. Wrap in prosciutto: Wrap each thigh in a slice of prosciutto. This layer will not only add flavor but also a crispy texture.

4. Heat the oil: In a skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the thighs.

5. Sear the thighs: Place the thighs in the skillet and sear for 5 minutes on each side until the prosciutto becomes slightly crispy. This step will enhance the flavor and add a pleasant texture.

6. Prepare the vegetables: Meanwhile, cut the heads of garlic in half without peeling them. Also, halve the cherry tomatoes to help release their juices during baking.

7. Assemble the dish: Place the seared thighs in a baking dish. Add the garlic, cherry tomatoes, white wine, and 3 lemon balm leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. This step will help tenderize the meat and absorb the flavors of the vegetables and wine.

9. Finish the dish: After 40 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and increase the temperature to 220°C (428°F). Remove the aluminum foil, add the drained white beans, and gently stir. Leave it uncovered in the oven for another 30 minutes until the beans are heated through and the dish is slightly browned.

10. Serve: Once the dish is ready, sprinkle the remaining lemon balm leaves on top and serve hot. This will add a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Additionally, crusty bread will be perfect for soaking up the rich sauce from the pan.

Possible Variations

- Add Vegetables: You can add diced carrots or zucchini to the cooking dish for extra nutrients and color.
- Use Herbs: Instead of lemon balm, experiment with rosemary or thyme, which pair beautifully with chicken.
- Grill: If you prefer a leaner option, you can grill the thighs, following the same marinating steps.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of this dish contains approximately 450 calories, depending on the amount of oil and the type of prosciutto used. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while white beans provide fiber and essential vitamins. Additionally, cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use boneless chicken thighs?: Yes, but make sure to adjust the cooking time, as boneless thighs cook faster.
- What white wine should I use?: A dry wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, will complement the dish perfectly.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?: Absolutely! You can prepare the thighs and marinate them in the fridge a day ahead, which will intensify the flavors.

These chicken thighs with prosciutto, lemon balm, and white beans are not only delicious but also visually stunning. By cooking this recipe, you will bring a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with ingredients and techniques to make this recipe truly unique. Happy cooking!